Reloading Class/Thread

[Walleye Hunter]

Well...it looks like I'm getting close to being able to not reload my own ammo and I am slowly digesting the process and I'm going to have some questions (like a four year old kid). I primarily shoot two calibers (9mm and 7.62x51) and will start with the 9mm for now. I picked up a Dillon RL550 set up that seems to be ready to go and I've collected brass for years so I have a couple bags of it laying around ready to process.

First I'll need to get me a tumbler though and suggestions on what to get would be great. And if someone has one to sell I could go for that too. I'll search YouTube for videos and see what I can find out there and any pointers towards a good video would be great too, since I'm sure there will be plenty of garbage out there. Should I sort the stuff by manufacturer as I tumble it? And is the stuff with the red around the primer the military ammo that needs to be swaged?

[rkrcpa]

The first thing will be a couple of good loading manuals. Many will have a section describing the process so you have a reference point. The internet is full of bad information and can be tough to sort through when you're first starting out. Don't go overboard with equipment purchases until you have feel for the process, like anything gun related, there are a lot of gadgets that look cool but are entirely unnecessary. On the other hand, some tools are simple yet incredibly helpful.

Redding used to have a short, concise beginners guide to reloading but I can't find the online link for it. I have a pdf copy if you would like it.

[Walleye Hunter]

The first thing will be a couple of good loading manuals. Many will have a section describing the process so you have a reference point. The internet is full of bad information and can be tough to sort through when you're first starting out. Don't go overboard with equipment purchases until you have feel for the process, like anything gun related, there are a lot of gadgets that look cool but are entirely unnecessary. On the other hand, some tools are simple yet incredibly helpful.

Redding used to have a short, concise beginners guide to reloading but I can't find the online link for it. I have a pdf copy if you would like it.

Sure, I can PM you my email address if that works.

[rkrcpa]

Sure, I can PM you my email address if that works.

That will work. I don't see where I can attach anything to a PM.

[rkrcpa]

Found it: Basic Handloading Guide

https://www.redding-reloading.com/handloading-links

[NathanB]

The requirement for a manual went out the window with the internet. It is no longer necessary to have hard copies on hand when there is an internet connected device. Some people may prefer it but it’s a waste of money to anyone with the capability to look up the info from the vendors site or do a little research

[Krichardson]

The requirement for a manual went out the window with the internet. It is no longer necessary to have hard copies on hand when there is an internet connected device. Some people may prefer it but it’s a waste of money to anyone with the capability to look up the info from the vendors site or do a little research

Yep,there are full tutorials on damned near anything on youtube.It's just a matter of selecting and following the right instructions lol.

[God's Country]

I'm in the same boat.

Seriously considering a harbor Freight tumbler. Not a Harbor Freight fan, but it seems to get good reviews and for the cost if I get a couple years out it, what the hell.
https://www.harborfreight.com/dual-d...ler-67632.html

I have thousands of factory ammo, so it's not a big leap at the moment. I'll be doing small batches.


ETA. Frankford Arsenal is my second choice.

[Parrisk]

No smoking in or around reloading ;-)

[DukeConnor]

despite some opinions i prefer books. The classic is ABC'S of reloading.

For a tumbler I wouldn't start out with a pin tumbler. there really isn't a need. A vibratory tumbler and pet smart lizard litter will clean cases.

no need to sort by case manufacturer unless you are a competition bench rest shooter.

beware crimped primers. sealent and a nato symbol are indicators. a hand primer pocket reamer can be had for 10-15 bucks.

a good scale is a must. i prefer electronic.


keep it simple. men have been producing ammo by the camp fire light for centuries. it isn't hard.

you will love your dillon. they really don't get much better.