What Equipment Do You Need to Start Reloading Ammunition for Beginners - Reloading 101

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 23 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 130

  • @InLineFabrication
    @InLineFabrication Рік тому +25

    Nicely done overview.

  • @phild8095
    @phild8095 Рік тому +77

    Reloading is a quiet hobby, the exact opposite of shooting, but just as fun. It is possible to make less expensive than factory ammo, but not always. It is possible to make better than factory ammo, but to do that one must be more precise, more exacting and less willing to take shortcuts than in an ammo factory. And it is possible to eventually save money on ammo, but you have to make a lot of ammo sometimes.
    Primers, powders and bullets sometimes have shortages. Buy extra and store it properly.
    I'd recommend reading all the chapters in the manual before reloading the first round. Then every year or so, open that book up again as a refresher. Complacency causes problems.
    There are hazards to reloading besides blowing up a gun inches from your face. The primers contain lead which has long term toxicity and causes brain damage. The powders are extremely flammable and the nitroglycerine in the powder can be absorbed through the skin and cause medical side effects such as dizziness, blurred vision, headaches, nausea, vomiting, erectile dysfunction, unexpected drops in blood pressure, just to name a few. Most of us wear safety glasses, many even wear nitrile gloves. (more costs)
    Another piece of equipment that many of us use is a primer pocket reamer or swage. This is for ammo that has the primer pocket crimped. These are typically part of a run made for military or police use. You can push the primer out, but getting a new one in can be hard, impossible or you may even detonate a primer. I haven't, but my brother in law blew up a primer trying to insert it. Swaging uses brute force to move the brass out of the way. Reaming cuts it away. Both are acceptable. For more details there are videos out there and probably some info in the manual you get. I started with a reamer because it was cheap, I went to swage when I felt I could afford it because it was faster and easier on the grip muscles.
    Manuals don't have all the possible load data. Powder companies publish their own load data online or in catalogs many will send catalogs with load data for free. I often refer to Hodgdon's website.
    Many of us keep each batch of ammo we make separate from other batches. That way if there is a problem we can isolate it. That is hard to do if you just make ammo and throw it in an ammo can with all the rest. Zip lock bag with information including date, powder, primer,powder load, bullet and overall length is pretty good ID. Some even put their rounds in special little plastic boxes from Plano or other companies. Many of us also keep all that information in a separate book or spreadsheet.
    Scales and calipers require a calibration check. Many scales come with a 50 gram weight. 50 grams is typically way heavier than the amount of powder loaded into a round. A lot of us have smaller calibration check weights. I use a 1 gram and a 0.2 gram weight for checking. I also picked up a couple inexpensive gauge blocks, a one inch and a 3 inch. This gets me a couple standard points to check when I am reloading handgun or .223 rounds.
    Warning, you cannot legally sell your reloads unless you have a specific FFL. And if something goes wrong with your ammo, do you have a lawyer. People will ask you to sell them ammo when they find out you make it. I have invited a friend to use my equipment, my supplies to make some ammo. It was a good evening together. I had the brass all cleaned and ready to go. It cost me 12 bucks so that he could make a couple boxes of 380 when there was none on the shelf a while back.
    Your reloading press will require routine cleaning and lubrication. Me, I wipe off the ram and pivot at least every time I use it and put a couple fresh drops of oil on. When I am decapping (removing primers) from dirty brass I clean the press more often. Dies also require routine cleaning. I use a q-tip and a quick drying cleaner either a bore or brake cleaner spray. (more money) Rifle resizing dies that require lube are the most likely to need more cleaning. Until you get good at it, pull the die out and look every hundred rounds max. Some lubes build up quicker than others. You will learn.
    Some companies sell shell holders with the dies. Check what you are buying before buying a shell holder. Most shell holders fit multiple calibers. 380 and 223 take the same shell holder, 45 ACP and 762 Nato take the same shell holder.
    To the best of my knowledge, all companies dies and shell holders fits all other companies presses.
    Instruction sheets and manuals. SAVE THEM. There's also a lot of information on company websites.
    SAAMI, Has some great FREE drawings of all the dimensions of ammo. More than found in the typical reloading manual. Downloadable PDF's. Great stuff, highly recommended. SAAMI is the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) is an association of the nation’s leading manufacturers of firearms, ammunition and components. SAAMI was founded in 1926 at the request of the federal government and tasked with: creating and publishing industry standards for safety, interchangeability, reliability and quality, and coordinating technical data. They are the ones that publish the specifications for all ammo, all chambers that the industry uses. Do a quick search for SAAMI.
    I now reload 3 brass calibers and 2 shotshell calibers. My total investment in equipment is $1,060. Including that and raw material cost I broke even after reloading 750 .223 Remington, 1,500 9mm Luger, 150 .380 auto, 175 20 gauge and 110 410 bore. Many of the 410 bore were buckshot loads that work great for 37 cents a round. Compare that to a buck or more for defensive 410 rounds.
    This is not intended to replace a manual or training, this is just the ramblings of an old engineer. Thank you and good luck.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +8

      @phild8095 - I can always tell who the engineers are out there with comments similar to yours! Very detailed and extremely thorough. All of your points viewers should write down and/or memorize. I keep a reloading manual on my night stand. I’m always looking up information and referring to it during random thoughts.
      Really appreciate your comments! Keep them coming! 👍🏻

    • @richardhallett1394
      @richardhallett1394 Рік тому +4

      Thank you so much. The video and comments like your provide a vast wealth of knowledge to beginners.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +3

      @@richardhallett1394 thanks Richard! 👍🏻

    • @dismayedtrinket2518
      @dismayedtrinket2518 Рік тому +3

      Thank goodness for scrolling screenshots (on cellphone).

    • @GB-zi6qr
      @GB-zi6qr Рік тому +2

      Outstanding comment!!!

  • @LamboHITtheLOTTO
    @LamboHITtheLOTTO Рік тому +30

    Thank you, my grandpa recently passed away, and I inherited his entire reloading station and I was just seeing what I was missing. This video is exactly what I was looking for.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +1

      Glad this video helped you! 👍🏻

    • @phild8095
      @phild8095 Рік тому +2

      Treasure that equipment. If well cared for you can pass it down as well.
      If you don't have any idea what it would cost new, check it out. you may be surprised.

  • @jjthefed
    @jjthefed Рік тому +197

    First piece of equipment is bank account with $ in it.

    • @01trapstr
      @01trapstr Рік тому +12

      This is the best comment! I literally laughed out loud. Thank you..

    • @syednoori3799
      @syednoori3799 Рік тому +1

      This channel aint for you buddy

    • @beestoe993
      @beestoe993 Рік тому +10

      I started in the 70's with a cheap Lyman press, a set of dies and Lee dipers

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +4

      @beestoe993 old school! Love it! 👍🏻

    • @Nwwoods
      @Nwwoods Рік тому +1

      Lol… that will help, when you done your account. Won’t have anything left..😂

  • @blackhawk2302
    @blackhawk2302 7 місяців тому +6

    Hornady Classic Delux Kit came with everything except a tumbler and dies.
    Has the manual, press, case care, electronic scale, caliper, thrower, thrower base, oal guage, shell holders, case lube, primer seater and a few more things.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  7 місяців тому +1

      @blackhawk2302 - thanks for the comment! 👍🏻

  • @logicboard7746
    @logicboard7746 11 місяців тому +4

    Very lucid and calm slow explanation. You have a flair for this

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  10 місяців тому

      @logicboard7746 - really appreciate the comment! 👍🏻

  • @doghousedon1
    @doghousedon1 4 місяці тому +4

    One can put the tumbler on the back burner. A guy can start with an old peanut butter jar, dish soap, and lemon juice and do quite nicely. A chronograph may be more useful. I'd recommend a guy stay away from electronic doodads while getting started. Those things get expensive. A guy can find load data and manuals online and can save some money there, too. Use the tumbler and electronic money for powder, primers, or bullets. Don't expect to save any money reloading. But expect to be shooting ammo tailored to your rifle and your needs, not someone else's. One essential not mentioned is a log book to keep load recipes and notes in, but a new guy will quickly figure that out. Progressive presses are not for new guys, so if you pick one up, don't be calling yourself a noob. 55+ years doing this and the press I still use the most is my old single stage. One powder thrower I still use dates back to 1929. A guy can make this a very complicated and expensive hobby, but it doesn't have to be that way. You'd be surprised how much reloading "equipment" can be found in the kitchen trash, garage, and shop. A powder trickler is nice (Christmas gift idea to someone), but an old spoon can work equally as well. You have a good list. Thanks for the vid.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  4 місяці тому +1

      @doghousedon1 - true ol’ schooler! Great advice, especially those on a tight budget. Thanks for the comments! 👍🏻

  • @TheDamnSpot
    @TheDamnSpot 3 місяці тому +1

    Sweet man. Best intro to any subject matter I've ever had. Simple, short and everything I need to know. Thanks!

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      @TheDamnSpot - appreciate the comment! 👍🏻

  • @gssaran88
    @gssaran88 Рік тому +3

    Thank You for breaking it all down, it’s appreciated

  • @GB-zi6qr
    @GB-zi6qr Рік тому +4

    Good video.
    As far as the brass tumbler, a mop bucket, hot water, dishsoap and white vinegar work for me. There's also a product called Lemoshine (spelling?) that will make your brass nice and shiny. Lemoshine in place of the vinegar will give you the shine. I found the vinegar a little cheaper.
    The only other thing to cover is "Why are you reloading?"
    I spent ~$500 to get started, that was the Lee Classic Turret kit, 2 die sets and extra loading head for the press. The kit included Lee's flow through powder measure.
    How good can the ammo be? How patient are you?
    My bolt actiond .223 can make a 0.5" hole with five rounds @ 100yrds. It is a hunting rifle.
    For good rifle ammo I highly recommend the Magneeto Speed Sporter chronograph. Yes it will affect point of impact, I don't go hunting with it installed.
    I started reloading so I could shoot more for the same cost. After getting the chronograph, I reload to shoot more accurately.
    Be careful, keep in mind your purpose for reloading. This can be a very deep rabbit hole with many branching passages.
    As stated in the video, #1 get a reloading manual first. Read it, spoiler alert, it is dry reading, Sahara Desert dry but in that reading you will learn if you want to reload or not.
    For less than the cost of a comparable hunting round you can tune the round to your rifle. That is what makes reloading so enjoyable to me.
    The other big thing. You, the reloader, become responsible for the ammo you make.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  11 місяців тому +1

      👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻well stated! Thanks for your comment! Excellent perspective! 👍🏻

  • @Kghost0311
    @Kghost0311 Місяць тому +2

    Lee turret press with extra turrets for every cartridge you reload. Lee single stage for $50 just for decapping and resizing. Get a drill for case trimming and you have a pretty fast and simple setup for not much if you do everything else by hand as far as case prep and powder

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  10 днів тому

      @Kghost0311 - appreciate the comment! Thanks! 👍🏻

  • @missxmarvel
    @missxmarvel 9 місяців тому +4

    Making your own guns is the only DiY that is useful.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  9 місяців тому +1

      Unfortunately they will not allow anyone to post videos on this topics. You’ll need to go to Rumble for that content. 👍🏻

  • @GeneralGhost001
    @GeneralGhost001 Рік тому +3

    This video was so easy to understand thank you so much I was kind of getting overwhelmed with other videos that had really complex machines😅

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +1

      Glad it was helpful! 👍🏻

  • @thegameroftheyear4751
    @thegameroftheyear4751 3 місяці тому +3

    Everyone seemingly forgets that yes you spend 1500$ on this stuff BUT after a year of shooting you actually saved QUITE a bit of money if you actually shoot on a weekly or biweekly basis like i do 250 rounds of 308 lasts me maybe half a session each weekend

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      @thegameroftheyear4751 - while I agree that this may be true for heavy shooters, not everyone is. I run around 500-1000 rounds per month. For the weekend plinker, I caution folks that they may not see a ROI for a long time. I’m pro reloading but realistic when telling folks they’ll save a lot of money. My selling point is for shortages like we’ve seen during COVID and after every major “news covered” illegal use of firearms. I remember Sandy Hook. Ammo surpluses were decimated. While folks were looking for ammo in stores, I had plenty of reloading supplies to keep me going. Just my thoughts. 👍🏻

  • @mainenorthwoodshunter3265
    @mainenorthwoodshunter3265 Рік тому +2

    Great video, thank you! All that would be needed after all that is specific size bullets and specific powder for your loads and specific primers.

  • @BLACKHEAT1028
    @BLACKHEAT1028 Рік тому +3

    Of course depending on what equipment you select, to get started can be from 800.00 to 1500.00, buy once cry once get what you can afford.

  • @Farmlifebelike
    @Farmlifebelike Рік тому +2

    Amazing nobody in this great of detail

  • @davidfrance3712
    @davidfrance3712 3 місяці тому +1

    Great video. Very informative, thanks!

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      @davidfrance3712 - appreciate the comment! 👍🏻

  • @robertuchiha1
    @robertuchiha1 3 місяці тому +1

    Wonderful video man thanks!

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      @robertuchiha1 - glad you enjoyed it! 👍🏻

  • @hannahwalch6377
    @hannahwalch6377 Рік тому +1

    Great step by step instructions! Thanks K2!

  • @MonroeBunge
    @MonroeBunge Рік тому +1

    Excellant step by step loading

  • @Ishnala717
    @Ishnala717 7 місяців тому +1

    Lyman ultimate reloading kit

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  6 місяців тому +1

      @Ishnala717 - great kit! Thanks for the comment!

    • @gennerobootz6490
      @gennerobootz6490 5 місяців тому +1

      @@k2defensehow much is it

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  4 місяці тому

      @gennerobootz6490 - amzn.to/4br1TgP 👍🏻

  • @walkercustoms
    @walkercustoms Рік тому +1

    Thank you

  • @snowdogjoe2741
    @snowdogjoe2741 3 місяці тому +1

    Well done, thanks

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      Appreciate the comment! 👍🏻

  • @mikefinley4367
    @mikefinley4367 Рік тому +1

    Thanks for posting.

  • @hanktaliaferro8565
    @hanktaliaferro8565 Рік тому +1

    I learned a lot of this vid. Thank you

  • @mirari_engaged
    @mirari_engaged Рік тому +2

    I just commented on another video about this and glad I found this

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +2

      Hello @mirari_engaged!
      Glad you found this helpful!

    • @mirari_engaged
      @mirari_engaged Рік тому +2

      @@k2defense glad I found your videos, I have been interested in reloading my own ammo for a long time now. I would love to know what machinery you find best to use. I know for the press I would go single load.

    • @mirari_engaged
      @mirari_engaged Рік тому +1

      @@k2defense I wonder what books you would recommend for reloading 223/5.56, 308, 30 carbine, and 35 cal

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +2

      @@mirari_engaged there are many to choose from. Most of my information comes from Hornady. Hope this helps!

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +2

      @@mirari_engaged the press, dies, powder thrower are all RCBS. I mix and match with items I use to reload. I don’t use one company over the other as some companies offe things others don’t. I’d highly encourage you to purchase a kit to start and go from there. Hope this helps!

  • @richardkut3976
    @richardkut3976 Рік тому +1

    Excellent!

  • @johnknope1664
    @johnknope1664 Рік тому +1

    Thank you.

  • @MADMAX839
    @MADMAX839 Рік тому +1

    Great intro vid.

  • @jturner5227
    @jturner5227 Рік тому +1

    Check weighs. 11th but should be higher. Needed before throwing your first charge.

  • @brendonfleetwood6069
    @brendonfleetwood6069 Рік тому +1

    Great video. Just need a boost in audio. It s a bit soft on mobile devices

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +1

      Thanks for the feedback! 👍🏻

    • @Jaqobee
      @Jaqobee Рік тому +1

      Agreed definitely bring up vocals

  • @theshieldwallnation
    @theshieldwallnation 2 місяці тому +1

    What do you recommend?
    Do one round at a time or do 20 (or another amount) at a time?

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  2 місяці тому

      @theshieldwallnation - personally, I do five rounds for each load. Mark them so you know which is which. Using a chronograph, I check each one for velocity and measuring the standard deviation. Does that answer your question? 👍🏻

    • @theshieldwallnation
      @theshieldwallnation 2 місяці тому +1

      @@k2defense it makes perfect sense. Thank you!

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  2 місяці тому

      @theshieldwallnation - awesome! 👍🏻

  • @earlforthun3838
    @earlforthun3838 Рік тому +1

    THANKS K2 Defense, your videos are easy to follow and understand. The Best !!

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому

      Earl Forthun - thanks for the feedback! Hope you continue to enjoy! 👍🏻

  • @captainbuck5969
    @captainbuck5969 Рік тому +3

    I use to reload when I was a kid. I think it was more for my dad’s therapy.

  • @russellkeeling4387
    @russellkeeling4387 2 місяці тому

    As a beginning reloader do not use any equipment that requires electricity to accomplish the task. Muscle fatigue is not an issue.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  2 місяці тому

      Hi Russell - thanks for the comment! 👍🏻

  • @hamishdunbar5836
    @hamishdunbar5836 10 місяців тому +1

    So this can only do up to 30 - 06 with this
    So you would have to buy another for bigger calibres ?

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  10 місяців тому +2

      You can reload, 338, 50 BMG if that’s what you’re looking to do as well. Unless I misunderstand your question. Thanks for the comment! 👍🏻

    • @hamishdunbar5836
      @hamishdunbar5836 10 місяців тому

      @@k2defense
      Sorry It was ment to be for the FX 10 that I was watching but for some reason it got posted to this one
      Sorry

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  10 місяців тому

      @@hamishdunbar5836 👍🏻

  • @louisle4886
    @louisle4886 6 місяців тому +1

    I thought about doing this, but it sounds like too many things to buy and set up. Its almost like having a mini factory. i just might melt my casings into brass ingots instead =[

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  6 місяців тому

      @louisle4886 - reloading is not for everyone. It can get expensive and time consuming. For me, it's therapeutic. I really enjoy making things and working with my hands. I can dial my ammo into exactly what I need and know I'll have consistency when I squeeze the trigger. 👍

  • @6Alpha-yankie_novemberdy2n
    @6Alpha-yankie_novemberdy2n 8 місяців тому +1

    "7" Safety check's from time u pic up ur brass, untill cartridge complete. Single (yes) staggers only. U progresseses, will forgo 5. What are these 7? Safety limits u place on urself as u begin.(The safety points. U will determine

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  8 місяців тому

      Safety is key when reloading! Thanks for the comment! 👍🏻

  • @hg2.
    @hg2. 26 днів тому

    Thanks for making, but it's not for beginners. I just don't know what trimming, priming, sizing, etc. are.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  23 дні тому

      @@hg2. - hello! I would encourage you to view the other videos on this channel that will clarify all of those to you. Hope this helps! Thanks for the comment! 👍🏻

  • @أبداعاتحرفيهومنزليه

    ادوات جميله كوني في حاجتها كيف احصل عليهافي اي موقع اوشراإها

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +2

      There should be a link to all items through Amazon in the description! 👍🏻

  • @hg2.
    @hg2. 26 днів тому

    What is "trimming"?

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  23 дні тому

      hello! Please take a look at the other videos on this channel like this one.
      ua-cam.com/video/0OjmQswsmKA/v-deo.htmlsi=yY0wcsQXYJmWLbtJ
      Thanks for the comment! Hope this helps! 👍🏻

  • @BigRay1918_
    @BigRay1918_ Рік тому

    Can you reload steel case ?

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  Рік тому +3

      BigRay1918_ I’d suggest not taking the time to do so. I won’t say it’s impossible, however, it really isn’t worth your time and the potential hazards that come with it. 👍🏻

    • @elingeniero9117
      @elingeniero9117 Рік тому +2

      No. Most uses Berdam primers. Not worth the labor and extra wear on your dies.

  • @richvest7212
    @richvest7212 7 місяців тому +1

    I preferhand priming also
    The lee tool is preferable to
    The piece of 💩 crap RCBS, I have both

  • @nelsonstrickland8813
    @nelsonstrickland8813 Місяць тому

    What have we learned kids?....screw this, save your money and buy factory ammo. .open box, insert ammo in weapon, then have fun...without these headaches!!!!😅

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  23 дні тому +1

      @nelsonstrickland8813 - ach person has to weigh the pros and cons to both thoughts. Thanks for the comment! 👍🏻

  • @joewest2560
    @joewest2560 3 місяці тому

    Not really helpful, as a previous poster me tioned... money, would ha e been nice to mention ballpark cost for middle of the road equipment. Guess I will look elsewhere for that first and foremost variable to see if it's even worth the effort

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      @joewest2560 - too many variables. In short, your ROI will take years. With the prices of cases, primers, powder, and projectiles now it could take decades. If you are a weekend plinker I’d suggest investing that money into buying bulk ammo. I go through a lot of ammo and have special recipes for each of my firearms. Probably the best part of reloading is when there is extreme shortages on the shelves and no one can find ammo. I have a nice reserve that kept me from having to go to the stores to purchase ammo. Again, too many variable for me or anyone else to tell you you should reload. A reloader has the ability to sustain whereas a nonreloader needs to rely on a bigger reserve of boxed ammo. Hope that helps! 👍🏻

  • @heuintheoutdoors6755
    @heuintheoutdoors6755 Рік тому

    Ill just go buy at the store lol

  • @russellkeeling4387
    @russellkeeling4387 2 місяці тому

    You have given bad advice when you say you don't have to trim straight wall pistol cases. You absolutely do have to.

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  2 місяці тому

      Hi Russel - it has been my experience that straight wall cases do not need trimming as frequently as bottle neck cases. For instance some of my 9mm that I’ve reloaded several times and never needed trimming. My .223/5.56 requires it each time I reload. Thanks for your comment! 👍🏻

  • @glennduke7621
    @glennduke7621 9 місяців тому +2

    Its so expensive it like $800/$1000 just for half the things you need i can easily buy more ammo then ill ever use lol what an expensive hobby...

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  9 місяців тому +1

      @glennduke7621 - if anyone tries to convince you they reload to save money, they’re messing with you. There are many “other” reasons to reload but certainly not to save money. 👍🏻

    • @Chromeape
      @Chromeape 8 місяців тому +2

      Lol 1000 rounds is almost 1000$and that’s nothing if you shoot often

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  8 місяців тому +2

      @Chromeape - wow, you should check online. The prices are much lower. I just looked and it’s almost half of what you quoted. To your point, once you dollar cost average your equipment into your reloading costs you’ll start saving money with heavy usage of ammo. Hope that makes sense. 👍🏻

    • @ruckustv7614
      @ruckustv7614 3 місяці тому +1

      @@k2defensenah in California only the start up is more expensive after that it tends to be lower to make

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      @ruckustv7614 - good to hear! 👍🏻

  • @larrybulthouse455
    @larrybulthouse455 3 місяці тому

    Judas priest

    • @k2defense
      @k2defense  3 місяці тому

      Gesundheit! 😂👍🏻