Bullet Reloading
If you love to shoot then you have probably noticed how expensive bullets are these days. Fortunately, with bullet reloading you can save yourself close to 60% and tailor the bullets to your personal style. This is important and really is a great benefit in addition to saving money so you really should give it a try. The following tips will help you understand what equipment to buy so that you can begin bullet reloading.
Bench
The first thing you will want to buy is a bench. It needs to be super strong and at least 24” by 48”.
Press
You will need a single stage press. The Rock Chucker press is a great one to buy, although there are many on the market and you may buy the one that works best for your budget and bullet reloading needs.
Powder Measure
You don’t have to have a powder measure for bullet reloading, but it really will make your life a lot easier and it will save you some time. The best powder measure to buy is a flexible model and they don’t cost that much so they are worth the investment.
Powder Scale
For safe reloading you will definitely want to buy a powder scale. It should be accurate and very reliable. You will want to have it calibrated in grains and it should be accurate to 1/10th grain. There are many different ones on the market, but you should buy the best one you can on your budget because it is worthwhile.
Reloading Manual
You must buy a reloading manual. This is a must-have and many are actually free from bullet and powder companies. Look around and even buy two or three so you will be able to compare. You should never guess what the charge weight is and always use the manuals as a guide. Do not exceed the maximum loads because this is very dangerous.
Reloading Dies
Depending on the calibers you plan on loading you will need a set of dies for each one. Keep in mind that some dies actually work for multiple calibers. You can buy a set of three dies for pistols.
Shell Holder
You need a shell holder for each caliber you plan on using for bullet reloading. This aligns the case in the press with the die.
Priming Tool
You can buy hand priming tools or use your press, depending on if it offers this feature.
Powder Funnel
A powder funnel is useful in bullet reloading because it helps you transfer the powder from the measure to the case without spilling. Buy a new funnel that has never been used for anything else so the powder is not contaminated.
Loading Block
The loading block will hold the cases while you are charging the others. You can buy these specially or use the factory ammunition plastic trays. It’s up to you.
Tumbler/Cleaner
You will need to clean all casings after they have been fired. A vibratory cleaner is a great investment because it will allow you to easily clean the casings.
Media
There are two types of media, corncob and walnut. Depending on your needs for bullet reloading will influence what you buy. The walnut is probably better because it cleans the best. However, the corncob really polishes so you may prefer that. Both may be used in separate tumblers if you desire.
Cases
You will need to buy cases for bullet reloading.
Powder
The best way to buy powder is in bulk so you can save money. However, if you buy in the one pound cans you can figure out the one you like the most.
Primers
You will also need to buy primers. There are many different types of primers on the market that will work well for bullet reloading, but you should choose the one you like the best. Federal, Winchester, Remington, and CCI are just some of the options.
Once you have all of the equipment you will be ready to begin your bullet reloading. Keep in mind that safety is most important and should be considered first and before all other things. As long as you are safe and conscientious your bullet reloading will be successful.