Author Topic: Wanting to start reloading, where do I start (Read 618 times)

rsgt513 · « **on:** December 13, 2004, 07:19:59 PM »

Im very intersted in getting into reloading and want to know from the experts here where do I start? I currently have .308 and a .223 any suggestions on brands of equipment and books what basics should I get to get going?

Dusty Miller · « **Reply #1 on:** December 13, 2004, 09:33:54 PM »

Geeze, I'll bet that if you got to AMAZON.COM and do a search for "reloading" you'll come up with more good books than you can shake a stick at!!

dave375hh · « **Reply #2 on:** December 14, 2004, 01:22:46 AM »

There's an excellent video availible from the Varmint Hunters. It's a Two tape set #1 basic starting out, #2 Advanced technics & equipment. I just bought both tapes for a friends X-Max present. Both tapes + shipping were only $41.50

ButlerFord45 · « **Reply #3 on:** December 14, 2004, 02:16:58 AM »

I'd recommend starting with one good reloading manual, I believe that the Lyman manual is a must on every reloaders shelf and is my idea of the best first manual. It will explain the process, the equipment needed and how to use it in a well organized and depicted manner. If after having read the information portion, you still have questions, it will be much easier to try and give advice and or suggestions. Reading the information portion and being familiar with what's there will make your time with a tutor or video much more valuable. As you may have noticed there are complete books on "How to Reload" and if one of us could explain how in a forum then we could copy-paste-print and get rich.
I had been reloading several years before I knew that the NRA had a reloading guide and I've never seen it, but have heard good things about it. I think now they even have reloading classes if you could find one of them.
Good Luck

ajj · « **Reply #4 on:** December 14, 2004, 02:56:10 AM »

You can't start anything without a good manual and I agree that the Lyman is the first one to get.

Val · « **Reply #5 on:** December 14, 2004, 04:26:06 AM »

All the majo manufactureres make good equipment. Most of the Lee stuff is low end but will work to get you started if you're on a budget. RCBS is legendary for their lifetime warranty and customer support.

Badnews Bob · « **Reply #6 on:** December 14, 2004, 05:37:33 AM »

The new Lee classic cast press is probably one of the best deals on the market they are as stout as anything else out there. Lee dies work very well also, I know a couple of people who have alot of experiance reloading with RCBS and REDDING equipment and they are very impressed with the classic cast press. That said spend money on books they may keep you from hurtin yourself.

mikemayberry · « **Reply #7 on:** December 14, 2004, 06:13:58 AM »

I started reloading about six months ago and asked two different friends to help me. Both lent me manuals which I read and developed an understanding about the processes.

One of the two guys had some extra basic equipment which he sold to me and he even came over and watched me the first time to make sure I knew what I was doing. He offered just a piece or two of advice that really built my confidence that I was not about to hurt myself.

I am not doing great volumes but have now reloaded both .44 magnums and .270 rifle loads and have had much fun doing so.

Do as the other guys have suggested and read before you begin. Set up in a place where you will not be distracted and be religious about your steps.

Good luck and have fun.

Mike

rsgt513 · « **Reply #8 on:** December 15, 2004, 01:25:06 PM »

thanks for all the tips, i think i will start with the lymann manual and do a lot of reading and research first. appreciate all the help.

stork · « **Reply #9 on:** December 18, 2004, 02:00:58 PM »

I just started relaoding not to long ago also. You need to read everything you can get your hands on. If you read a lot you won't have any problem once you get your equipment together.

Don't go buy the cheapest stuff you can find because you will probably keep using the same equipement for a long time.

Haywire Haywood · « **Reply #10 on:** December 19, 2004, 03:46:46 PM »

Very excellent advice you have received here. One thing to keep in mind as you read is that the Lyman book will try to sell you Lyman equipment. The other books from the various manufacturers will be selling theirs. The basic steps will be the same however.

Good luck,
Ian

Questor · « **Reply #11 on:** December 20, 2004, 05:10:10 AM »

I recommend the RCBS Rock Chucker kit. You get almost everything you need, including a great manual that is specific to that particular equipment. The equipment will last a lifetime. Don't buy cheap equipment.

Dusty Miller · « **Reply #12 on:** December 22, 2004, 12:33:14 PM »

I started with the Rock Chucker kit in about 1994, and have added a few things to it over the years, it has served me well. A BIG plus is that RCBS has a customer service policy to die for! Enjoy your new hobby, you'll be at it for the rest of your life.