New to reloading...

[Glock22xd9]

I have decided to start reloading instead of buying more guns I can;t afford to shoot. I don't know the first thing about it and I was hoping you all would walk me through what to buy, where to get it, etc. I really don't know the first thing anout it, so please spell stuff out for me! Thanks!

[josh]

I recommend purchase of two manuals before you jump into reloading.
Buy the new lyman manual and the Lee manual. They have a wealth of information and explanations for the new or would be reloader.
Once you have a better understanding you can make a better educated decision on what equipment to purchase.

[Glock22xd9]

Originally Posted by josh

I recommend purchase of two manuals before you jump into reloading.
Buy the new lyman manual and the Lee manual. They have a wealth of information and explanations for the new or would be reloader.
Once you have a better understanding you can make a better educated decision on what equipment to purchase.

Good call. I saw the lyman book at sportsman's warehouse today and almost picked it up. Surprisingly I didn't buy anything today. I NEVER leave there without something!

[aubie515]

Lee is cheap, but IMO there are better manuals and equipment.

Single stage presses will allow you to load approx. 50 rounds per hour, but you get a very consistent load.

Progressive presses will allow you to load 400+ rounds per hour.

You need to decide if you are going to load for accuracy or load for bulk. If you are loading for accuracy, I'd go with a single stage press... RCBS is the only single stage I'd recommend.

For a progressive press I would say Dillon 550 and up or Hornady Lock N Load AP. Hornady has a deal going through 12-31-06 that if you buy a LNL AP press, you get 1,000 bullets free (shipping and handling of $13) which is a heck of a good deal.

For manuals I'd recommend
Hornady Manual
Sierra Manual
Barnes

[Glock22xd9]

I would probably want to go with a single stage press Aub. I need all the accuracy I can get. I Don't know though because time is precious. How accurate are we talking here because 400 an hour sounds GREAT!

[josh]

Originally Posted by aubie515

RCBS is the only single stage I'd recommend.

Why is that?

[Bib]

I disagree....if we're talking single stage, a Lee will work just fine. When you get into progressives, buy the best you can afford...Dillon, if possible. I wouldn't even plant the "400 rounds an hour" seed in the head of someone who has never reloaded before. Learn the fundamentals first..


What calibers are you planning to reload for G22xd9?..I might have some things around here that I no longer use or need, and maybe after the holidays, when you get your equipment, I'd be willing to come over and help you get it set up and get you off on the right foot....I don't live too far away but I work 55-60 hours a week so finding time might take some doing.

[aubie515]

You can disagree all you want. The materials that Lee uses aren't the best. There is a reason why RCBS and Dillon have a lifetime warranty. I'm pretty sure Hornady does as well.

As far as putting thoughts of doing 400+ rounds per hour to a new shooter...that is fact that a progressive is A LOT faster than a single stage press. Sure, one must learn to use the progressive press, but once the person gets used to it...the progressive press will crank out ammunition.

I know lots of people like Lee, but I like RCBS and Hornady products. When I first started researching for reloading, I considered Lee, but once I read for weeks...I noticed that you eitherh liked Lee or you cursed the company. I didn't want to risk it...and I know that my reloading equipment will last my lifetime, so I paid more up front to buy quality.

[Glock22xd9]

well for now i only have 3 calibers to choose from. 9mm, .40, and 30.06. I haven't shot the 30.06 in so long! I miss it so much! Don't forget guys I haven't researched any of this yet, so give me links so i can find prices and see what you're talking about please.

[pghplr]

I'm new to reloading too, so you'll be glad to know I'm not offering advice on actual reloading. I bought a Dillon 550 and I'm enjoying it alot. However, a couple days ago while googling for info on maintenance for it(not in the manual) I came across this article www.cs.odu.edu/~rtompkin/hornady/blue.php
Something to consider if you go progressive.