If you have decided to start reloading your own ammunition for your pistol or rifle you’ve made a wise and cost-efficient choice that might just turn into a satisfying new hobby you will enjoy for many years to come.
The following list details just some of the materials and equipment you need to start reloading.
Reloading Press
Reloading presses come in three types for various types of reloading needs.
• Single stage: Generally considered the best type of reloading press for those starting out or with limited experience, a single stage loading press requires few adjustments and is the least expensive of the three kinds of presses.
• Turret: With turret reloading presses, users can load up to a couple of hundred rounds per hour and allows you to mount multiple dies on the press. An extra hole to mount a powder measure to increase production rates is available on some turret presses. This time-saving machine is ideal for people who want to reload larger batches of ammunition than a single stage press will accommodate.
• Progressive: Ideal for high volume reloading, progressive presses can turn out up to 500 rounds an hour. Most progressive presses need additional set up and maintenance time to properly operate smoothly and safely. Multiple die stations hold dies and powder measures for easy access.
Reloading Manuals
Never reload your ammunition without consulting a reloading manual. Manuals are the recipe books needed to provide exactly what and how much of ingredient to use for your specific reloading application. Bullet types, powder type, and charge amounts for each configuration are listed with all of the reloading supplies you need.
Reloading Dies
Reloading dies are a critical component in the process of precision ammunition reloading. There are a wide variety of dies on the market for any kind of pistol or rifle. Whether you are shooting for precision, versatility, or quantity, make sure you are getting the right reloading die for the application.
Powder Scale
There are electric and traditional balance scales available to accurately measure the amount of powder you need for each reload. Balance scales are easier to calibrate and more suited for beginners. Electronic scales can quicken the process of reloading, but run the risk of electronic interference and are more expensive to purchase and repair.
Calipers
Calipers measure the brass to match your specifications and used to adjust the reloading die to get the bullet to your desired length. Calipers come in a wide variety of quality and price.
Reloading Starter Kits
A reloading starter kit is exactly what it sounds like. If you are just starting to reload your own ammunition or have limited experience, purchasing a starter kit will make sure you have the reloading supplies you need to start saving money immediately. You can replace or supplement specific components of parts or gear as you get more comfortable and have a better understanding of how it works and what works best for you.