Getting into reloading, need info on the must haves to start.

[marine6680]

I think it is time to start reloading, I shoot .40, 9mm, and possibly .223 in the future.

Been looking around. If there is a thread already with the information just point me to it.

I have helped a friend with his reloading, but never done it own my own yet.

Looking at maybe a good starting kit that comes with the essentials then add the dies and extras I need. Seems the cheaper way to go.

Found several kits at different price ranges and amount of included equipment. Searching for "what" right now, and then will shop for price when I have the final piece list.

Some questions I had though.

1) Ultrasonic cleaning vs dry tumble media cleaning. Which is better/preferred by the guys here, why?
2) Nylon vs metal calipers. I always heard to use the nylon ones for reloading, but some kits had metal ones. Seems metal would be fine if you are not measuring cases with charges in them. Opinions?

Also, I prefer digital scales over the beam scales. The beam scales can be a little fiddly to use and to me seem less precise.

Some kits I found:
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/937051/rcbs-rock-chucker-supreme-master-single-stage-press-kit
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/149937/hornady-lock-n-load-classic-single-stage-press-deluxe-kit
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/749997/hornady-lock-n-load-classic-single-stage-press-kit
The Hornady kits have digital scales, the more expensive has a few extra bits I think are needed like a bullet puller.

Die set I found that I think would be good: (would get a 40 and 9mm set)
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/885350/lee-deluxe-carbide-4-die-set-9mm-luger

thanks

[Wobbly]

Sure....

Requirements...
Reloading dies
Shell holder (if not built into the press)
Priming tool (if not built into the press)
Reloading press
Reloading manual
Calipers (physical measurement)
Powder scale (powder measurement)
Powder dispenser

And of course...
Empty cases
Powder
Bullets
Primers

Then there are some accessories that make things easier....
More reloading manuals
Primer trays (for loading the primer tool)
Kinetic hammer (for removing bullets)
Case storage trays & bins
Ammo storage cases
Case lube
Case lube pad
Tumbler and media
Cartridge gauge
Case trimmers (usually for bottle-neck rifle only)
Sturdy bench
Comfy chair or stool
Dedicated reloading area
Shelves
Filing cabinet
Universal de-capper die
0-1" Micrometer
Chronograph
Dillon wall calendar


I'll not recommend a particular machine brand because that depends on your budget, your volume of reloading, and other personal factors. You can get to work in a Yugo, but some people prefer the features of a Mercedes. It's the same with the reloading machines. Every machine offered today is well built and worth every penny you pay for it. Some cost $75, some cost $500. As with the example of the automobile... you get exactly what you pay for.

PS. Some people will argue that the Dillon calendar is a requirement.

Hope this helps!

[Wobbly]

Some questions I had though.

1) Ultrasonic cleaning vs dry tumble media cleaning. Which is better/preferred by the guys here, why?
2) Nylon vs metal calipers. I always heard to use the nylon ones for reloading, but some kits had metal ones. Seems metal would be fine if you are not measuring cases with charges in them. Opinions?

3) Also, I prefer digital scales over the beam scales. The beam scales can be a little fiddly to use and to me seem less precise.

Some kits I found:
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/937051/rcbs-rock-chucker-supreme-master-single-stage-press-kit
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/149937/hornady-lock-n-load-classic-single-stage-press-deluxe-kit
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/749997/hornady-lock-n-load-classic-single-stage-press-kit
The Hornady kits have digital scales, the more expensive has a few extra bits I think are needed like a bullet puller.

Die set I found that I think would be good: (would get a 40 and 9mm set)
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/885350/lee-deluxe-carbide-4-die-set-9mm-luger

1) Cleaning is NOT a reloading requirement. Cleaning is totally a personal choice. Look on the Jay's Berry Forum (at the top of this page) for a outstanding deal on a Berry tumbler.

2) Unless you were planning on crushing the cases with the calipers, material makes no difference. I prefer the $12 6" digital from Harbor Freight.

3) Brother, you've swallowed the "digital scale scam" hook, line, and sinker.     The truth is closer to the exact opposite. However, Berry is offering (again) a great deal on the best inexpensive scale on the market. If you don't get that exact one, then plan on spending at least $150 to match it. Otherwise, plan on a RCBS 5-0-5 or Dillon Eliminator for about $75. These last 2 will last you a lifetime. I know this because I'm using a 505 built in 1973. Just try finding a digital scale built in the 1990's. 

4) Lyman also has a very nice starter kit. It comes with 2 things you'll end up having to buy later that the kits you mentioned DON'T have: a Lyman reloading manual, and a case trimmer.

The Hornady kit is nice because you get free bullets, and can work to save you money IF you ever move to the Hornady AP progressive press.

I often tell people to choose the press by the volume of shooting, not the price. Any reloading press will totally pay for itself in well under 1 year. If you intend to shoot 10,000 rounds a year, why then would you want to struggle along with a press designed to deliver 2000 rounds per year, if BOTH presses are essentially FREE ?? Now, in reality you may not have the cash for an $8000 reloading machine, but it's a great way to look at the decision in a fresh new way.

5) There are numerous good die makers. Lee builds a no-frills, solid, basic die. I own several sets myself. However, just as one man's frilly GPS navigation system is another man's "must have" feature.... 9mm shooters often find that their bullets are not seated straight because the no frills Lee seater only offers a single seating anvil. Bullets for the 9mm are, of course, available in about 20 different nose shapes. In that case you might prefer Hornady dies since they comes with multiple anvils.


All the best. 

[larryflew]

As usual Wobbly is the master and says it all. Only one thing I would change. I'd move the "More reloading manuals" up to the must have and they can help with your decision also.

Totally additional hobby.  IE you may become a brass fanatic and find yourself going to shoot at the range just to get more of someone elses brass even though you already have 8000 9mm cleaned and ready to load.

GOFORIT and enjoy!!!

[marine6680]

Thanks for the info. Pretty close to what I was thinking I would need.

I was getting more confident, but now I am moving toward less sure. 

As far as scales... no falling for marketing gimmicks, I just have used both and think digital is easier. I actually was thinking that before starting my research. Maybe I should learn to like beam style. 

Price is a concern now, but I am not bottom of the barrel.

I already have a set of calipers I use for my RC helis, so I can use that here, which is good.

As far as presses, I will start with a single stage. After a while I was thinking of moving to one of the Lee turret presses that auto index. It isn't a true progressive, but still faster than a single stage. Will I end up with a progressive after that sometime... probably.

I will probably be doing a lot of reloading for friends after I learn enough to be sure of my loads and confident in letting another put some of my reloads through their own guns. I also don't want to be spending forever reloading even if just for myself. So any tools that speed things up are worth it to me.

I read others like the Lyman manual the best as well. I have used their powder measure, looking at the other brands, I am not as impressed by them. Just looking at them, haven't used them though.

Cleaning may not be "required" but I think it is the best practice from what I read. Also want to decap then clean. So a universal decapper will be a purchase up front.

I read that the Lee FCD is a good final check step which is why I was thinking of getting them.

I know I want a bullet puller up front. After looking at the Hornady kit that has one included, it has too much extra stuff that I would not be using. Like case holders in every size but the ones I need.  So that kit is out.

So with that is mind, any suggestions on a starter kit, dies, and extras?

Thanks.

[viking499]

Wobbly, who has the best reloading manual on the market?

[Faeruss7]

     Lyman 49th Edition, as it is a very versatile manual. I would advise that you get a minimum of three manuals, of recent publication. I do this to not only to have access to load data for a larger selection of bullets, but also to be able to cross-reference and determine if what I intend to do makes sense and is safe, and is even worth doing.

[Wobbly]

Lyman 49th Edition.

+1. Faeruss beat me to it. 

Although I will be quick to add that the Lyman #48 comes in a close second.   


When you shop Lyman, be sure to note that they come in softbound and hardback. Sometimes you think you found a deal, and then a softcover version shows up. The other books are really good too, they just don't cover the number of calibers or types of bullets. If you can find a Hornady or Speer manual for $10, then by all means buy it.

[viking499]

How old is #49?

[Wobbly]

I was getting more confident, but now I am moving toward less sure. 

Why? Explain please. This is not rocket science, but it is chemistry class. If you go slow, follow the directions, measure accurately, and avoid distractions you'll be making ammo in no time.

As far as scales... no falling for marketing gimmicks, I just have used both and think digital is easier. I actually was thinking that before starting my research. Maybe I should learn to like beam style. 

If you prefer digital, then by all means buy digital. Just be aware of their pitfalls and short comings. And NEVER EVER confuse speed with accuracy. This is not a game of horseshoes.

Price is a concern now, but I am not bottom of the barrel.

Well, then the $100 made in America Berry scale should be right up your alley.

As far as presses, I will start with a single stage. After a while I was thinking of moving to one of the Lee turret presses that auto index. It isn't a true progressive, but still faster than a single stage. Will I end up with a progressive after that sometime... probably.

RCBS, Hornady, Lyman and Lee all make single stage starter kits. However, if you plan to move up in the near future (within 3 years) then a) buy the end press to start with, OR b) buy a used single stage right now.

I will probably be doing a lot of reloading for friends...

That is not only against Federal law, but it has a very high stupid factor associated with it. 

I also don't want to be spending forever reloading even if just for myself. So any tools that speed things up are worth it to me.

The speed is in the press, because the press defines the process.

I read others like the Lyman manual the best as well. I have used their powder measure, looking at the other brands, I am not as impressed by them. Just looking at them, haven't used them though.

The Lyman powder measure is neat, but the RCBS UniFlow and Hornady measures are probably better. However, the RCBS and Hornady both require external parts that have to be swapped when you go from pistol to rifle reloading.

I read that the Lee FCD is a good final check step which is why I was thinking of getting them.

The Lee FCD is something people either love or hate. I'll go ahead and admit that it may have good application on lead bullets, but IMHO it is overkill on plated or jacketed. On those it can actually mess up a correctly loaded round. I can show you photos if you want.

I know I want a bullet puller up front.

Yea, anyone taking reloading tips from me is going to need a bullet puller in a big way. Just ask SOW1.  Get the RCBS kinetic hammer because it's guaranteed for life. That way when your wife kills you with it, she can get your money back. 

So with that is mind, any suggestions on a starter kit, dies, and extras?

You have to figure that out for yourself. Pick the press first. Then we'll tell you what dies work with that press. A major contributing factor might be a local mentor who uses XXX brand press. Being able to swap reloading implements back and forth because they fit both presses is a big reason to buy that press. (Say you only reload 223 once a year. Being able to borrow his dies saves you ~$80.) Also research the Hornady "free bullets" deal.

 

[marine6680]

I was getting more confident, but now I am moving toward less sure. 

Why? Explain please. This is not rocket science, but it is chemistry class. If you go slow, follow the directions, measure accurately, and avoid distractions you'll be making ammo in no time.

As far as presses, I will start with a single stage. After a while I was thinking of moving to one of the Lee turret presses that auto index. It isn't a true progressive, but still faster than a single stage. Will I end up with a progressive after that sometime... probably.

RCBS, Hornady, Lyman and Lee all make single stage starter kits. However, if you plan to move up in the near future (within 3 years) then a) buy the end press to start with, OR b) buy a used single stage right now.

I will probably be doing a lot of reloading for friends...

That is not only against Federal law, but it has a very high stupid factor associated with it. 

I read that the Lee FCD is a good final check step which is why I was thinking of getting them.

The Lee FCD is something people either love or hate. I'll go ahead and admit that it may have good application on lead bullets, but IMHO it is overkill on plated or jacketed. On those it can actually mess up a correctly loaded round. I can show you photos if you want.

I will do these in order.

1) More confused... because I thought I had a good idea of exactly what kit I was going to start with and you changed that all around. 

2) I can not afford the progressive setup right now, I may not need that much volume. After reading your responses I am leaning towards the Lee Turret with auto indexing. The kit isn't a bad price. Then a set of Lee dies for 9mm and 40s&w. Plus an extra turret head to make it easier, set up each caliber die set and then swap as needed with minimal adjustment.

(still haven't shopped for best price yet)

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/785993/lee-4-hole-turret-press-with-auto-index-deluxe-kit

But still Looking at the Hornady kits. Single stage but free bullets. It down to... is the equipment sufficiently better quality to justify going single stage and higher price. (free bullets offset the cost a little)
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/749997/hornady-lock-n-load-classic-single-stage-press-kit

I did read that when using the Lee Auto Powder Measure it stresses the case more than others. (when using in auto mode with the Lee dies, not sure if it works with other brand dies) Should I be concerned with that?

3) Against the law? Did not know. Does it only apply if you charge for it, or even if you do it for free?

A few years back I had a friend who would reload and we would sometimes shoot them through my pistol. He never did hot loads though, just light target loads, less than factory ammo. We also never left his property, as he had a ton of land in the middle of no where.

4) I plan on finding a good cast lead target load for the bulk of my shooting outdoors. It might be handy to have the FCD.

Also, as far as budget, my fiance would like me to keep it below $500 for equipment and a basic first component purchase. (say 500 rounds for each caliber) I might can push it to $550... if I am extra nice to her for a couple days. Though I would bet $400 would be more to her liking. 

With the Lee turret press I am looking at $300 in equipment before even touching case cleaning. So I need to find the right equipment at the right price... I would like to do tumble, as that polishes brass as well as cleans.

Was wondering about annealing cases as well. It helps extend cases useful life? An explanation or link on how to do it would be great.

Oh one more question.  Case trimming... Read that on a handgun caliber it is not completely necessary, just separate brass by headstamp and reload count. Thoughts?

Thanks

[marine6680]

My biggest problem is I am extremely analytical and logical. I have to research and read and analyze everything, which means I take forever finding what I want, and half the time I am thinking out loud... drives the fiance nuts. 

[Wobbly]

My biggest problem is I am extremely analytical and logical.

Welcome to the home forum of the anal attentive reloader.   

You'll fit right in.

[marine6680]

Ha HA thanks.

In addition to the new questions I posted a couple posts up, I remembered another.

I was wondering what a good powder would be for 9mm and .40. Preferably using the same for both, for one less thing to screw up.

I read IMR SR 4756 is a good powder to start with. Also that Win. 231 is good.

I need one that meters consistently of course, and one that give me a good number of reloads per container/price.

[Wobbly]

? The Lee classic turret is probably their best press, and probably the best choice if you go by price range.

? Lee dies will work very well in that machine.

? Don't believe anyone who says Lee presses are trash. They are well made and well worth the money. No, the problem with Lee presses is the plastic accessories that come with them. You can get by with them most of the time, and "how to fix them" articles abound on the internet. But they still break from time-to-time and are highly sensitive to static in the winter. Plastic accessories simply have issues within this particular hobby that the other brands do not.

? Lead bullets are cheap, but they are NOT easy to reload. Please do yourself a favor and start with Berry plated or another brand of jacketed. When you master those, then you can try lead bullets.