Let’s start re-loading…. start by setting up your reloading table or bench in a location with good lighting, away from distractions. Purchase reloading manuals and keep them attainable for easy reference and don’t skimp on an excellent powder scale; the better the scale the more accurate the powder measure. We also recommend a variable ergonomic chair that lets you sit comfortably and reload for long periods of time.
Since you’re a new comer to reloading always follow the reloading manual instructions precisely, don’t deviate. Familiarize yourself with the different types of presses, scales, and dies, we’ve included basic descriptions below to obtain you started. There are many reloading websites and instruction videos on the internet, watch the videos to familiarize yourself with the best reloading scale equipment, terminology and the fundamental steps. ALWAYS follow the safety precautions emphasized in the reloading manuals and on merchandise packaging.
Basic equipment for reloading:
PRESS – Presses come in different styles or models but can be described in two categories: single stage and progressive. Single stage presses perform one operation with each pull of the handle. The benefits of just one stage press are:
• Effective at reloading any cartridge – depending on the size of the press.
• Less expensive.
• An easy task to operate.
• Requires little or no maintenance.
The disadvantage of a Single Stage press could be the slow speed.
Progressive or turret presses are faster than a single stage press. Turret or progressive presses allow the user to put just one empty casing to the press and then rotate the casing through multiple stages before removing the completed cartridge. Most progressive presses are capable of 250+ rounds an hour. Progressive presses perform multiple functions on separate cartridge cases with each handle pull, depending on the form of press.
Rifle – 2 die set:
• Stage 1 – de-prime/resize
• Stage 2 – seat primer/powder drop
• Stage 3 – seat projectile or bullet
Pistol – 3 Die Set:
• Stage 1 – de-prime/resize
• Stage 2 – expand case mouth/seat primer
• Stage 3 – drop powder/seat projectile or bullet
Shotgun:
• Stage 1 – de-prime/resize
• Stage 2 – seat primer
• Stage 3 – powder drop
• Stage 4 – insert Wad/drop shot
• Stage 5 – crimp casing
The disadvantages of progressive presses are:
• $$$ they cost much more than a single stage press.
• Movable parts wear out so maintenance and replacement costs are inevitable, according to use.
You’ll need to choose a media that is large enough to support the tallest brass casing you intend to reload.
Dies – Dies come in sets which are caliber specific. The amount of dies that can come in a group usually are 2 for bottleneck cartridges and 3 for straight cartridges. In a 2 die set the first die is used to remove the used primer and resize the case. The 2nd die in the set is used for seating the brand new projectile or bullet and crimping. In a two die set lube is essential when resizing the case to avoid it from sticking in the die. In a 3 die set the first die is used to resize the case and remove the used primer. The 2nd die in the 3 die set is used to expand the case mouth for a brand new bullet or projectile. The 3rd die in the 3 die set is used to seat and crimp a brand new bullet. Three die sets are available in steel, carbide or titanium nitride. The carbide and titanium nitride sets are far more expensive but can be utilized without lube; a material die set requires lube. Most brands of dies will continue to work in virtually any press, but sometimes you’ll encounter a media that is die-brand specific.
Shell plate / Shell holder – This is the piece in your press to hold the cartridge case in place. Single stage presses use universal shell holders that work with any model of press. Most progressive presses start using a shell plate that is unique to the brand and form of press. Shell plates are far more expensive than shell holders. Shell plates and shell holders are cartridge specific, but many can be utilized with multiple cartridges.
Measuring Device / Scale – This could be a calibrated set of powder scoops, or even a dispenser filled rotary type that is adjustable to drop the charge weight you need. Our recommendation for either press type is a powder measure that is adjustable for just about any charge weight. We recommend an additional digital scale to verify the accuracy of the powder weight being dispensed by a rotary device.