Reliable

Just thinking about my component inventory and I came to the realization that I have some reloading to do.



First, I need to pound out about 1000 rounds of 9mm before I reconfigure the LNL AP to 45ACP then I need to knock out about 2000 rounds of 45.



Next over to my single stage where I want to run off some 38 Specials, may need to get some supplies for that one as I have not loaded any 38's in some time.



Anyone else reload?

wink

I would like to take it up right now I have a friend make my rounds for me and it seem's they are starting to cost more for him to make them.



prices r going up for me.What would be a good start up set my neighbor and I were talking about going in together on it.

Reliable

The set up would depend somewhat on what range of ammo you intend to reload. Large quantity reloading is best done on a progressive press (each pull of the handle performs multiple functions), smaller quantites can be done on a single stage press (each pull of the handle does one function). There is quite a price range of each type available. I have an RCBS single stage unit that I do rifle and pistol cartridges requiring a roll crimp on. For cartridges requiring a taper crimp such as 9mm, 40S&W, and 45ACP I use a Hornady LNL AP progressive unit. I load higher volumes on the progressive. These just happen to be the ones that I choose to fit my needs.



To get started one will need a press, cartridge specific dies, powder measure, a scale, maybe a priming tool, manual(s), components. There is a significant cash outlay to get started and this can be recovered quickly or slowly depending on what and how much you reload. For best savings, always buy components in bulk when possible (1000 at a time). LEE maks some affordable units that may be good starting systems, I personally do not have any experience with LEE presses. I do think that LEE makes great die sets and I also like their hand primer.



My reloading area







Hornady LNL AP Progressive

col132

Dillon 650, currently set up for 45acp.

xmortor66

Can you say "crank em out" with that case feeder? Nice set up I almost went with the Dillon. I bought my Hornady LNL AP about 6 months ago and really enjoy my time at the press.

xmortor66

A picture of my set-up. Didnt realize how much $$ it cost to get going but I figure in time it will pay for itself.



I had an old craftsman radial arm saw that the motor quit working so I pulled it off tossed it in the garbage and painted the stand gunmetal grey. Had an old mahogany table top that I picked up a few years ago that I never found a use for. I did have to take some angle iron and bolt it to the top/stand to make it more rigid but the end result I was pretty happy with.

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Thought Police

I have access to a setup at work. I'm lucky enough to work for a gun nut. When ammo started having shortages I mentioned getting a reloader. My boss does nothing half ass. He got a 550 with all the bells and whistles minus the case loader. We are setup for 9mm, 40, 45, and 380. With primers and bullets for .223 awaiting dies. I'll snap some pics later.

SixStringer519

How long does it take to break even (assume ~800 - 1000 rounds of practice ammo a month)? I'm interested in reloading as well, but I'm trying to figure out how much of an initial investment there is compared to the savings reloading would provide?

Reliable

At that rate, I would estimate about a year. The rate would depend on how well you shop for components, bulk buying, internet searches, etc.

Justin Burns

I agree it make take some time, but some of the pictures posted in this thread are of top of the line (or nearly) reloading presses. If you don't' mind the "time at the press" so to speak, then you could get started for quite a bit less . The equipment pictured above is VERY nice, but it is in the $500 to $700 range.. (and I may not be doing them justice.) If you started with a Single stage press, bar powder scale, powder thrower and a set of dies, you could do it for say $150 even. The rest comes over time, garage sales and Cabelas. You could always buy a kit, but with some knowledge of what's necessary, and some careful shopping, it can be done inexpensively. Then it wouldn't take nearly as long to recoup your initial investment.



Here are a few helpful links to some inexpensive components:



Search "Bullets" at: Elite Deal Seaker and then look for your caliber.

Here's some brass from a local "SigTalker:" Pistol brass



There is a $25 Hazmat fee tacked onto all packages with powder or primers, so I would buy those local. (Unless you are buying bulk to the tune of several hundred $ at a time.) Do some comparison, but most gun shops have the stuff at reasonable rates. (Esp when you include shipping and Hazmat from an online site.)



Having said all of that, I would argue that saving money can't be the only reason one should choose to reload..

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