Getting started...

[Caliber357]

Hi,

I'm an absolute know-nothing when it comes to reloading, and would like to get started safely and at a reasonable cost. I'm looking to spend around $600.00 to start, hopefully. My main interest would be reloading .308, .44 mag, and 5.7. Is there a "starter kit" that supports both rifle and pistol reloading, (I realize I'd have to buy the caliber-specific components seperately)? I guess my main question is what specifically will I need to get started, and how would you recommend gaining some experience and knowlege firsthand without blowing myself up? :) I've been all over the web looking for some kind of "reloading 101" type of thing, but there doesn't seem to be anything geared toward beginners. Thanks...

P.S. For my first kit, I'm looking at the "RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press Master Kit" from Midway USA. Any opinions on it?

[sirthomas]

compare prices with these guys, http://www.lockstock.com/ I've bought quite a bit of stuff from them they sometimes have better prices than midway. the RCBS stuff is good, I've got an older RCBS single stage press, I like it a lot its built solid. the kit your looking at is ok, but from personal experience the LEE hand priming tool is way nicer to use. fits your hand better. also I would get an electronic scale instead of the beam scale, more accurate I feel and easier to use. if you shop around you can find a good deal on the accessories, also check these guys. http://www.sportsmansguide.com/

[car-15]

this link may help. I started by reading lymans reloading book, and the below link. I believe I got the lyman book at sportsmans warehouse.
http://rcbs.com/guide/printsteps.html

[HunterCO]

Hi,

I'm an absolute know-nothing when it comes to reloading, and would like to get started safely and at a reasonable cost. I'm looking to spend around $600.00 to start, hopefully. My main interest would be reloading .308, .44 mag, and 5.7. Is there a "starter kit" that supports both rifle and pistol reloading, (I realize I'd have to buy the caliber-specific components seperately)? I guess my main question is what specifically will I need to get started, and how would you recommend gaining some experience and knowlege firsthand without blowing myself up? :) I've been all over the web looking for some kind of "reloading 101" type of thing, but there doesn't seem to be anything geared toward beginners. Thanks...

P.S. For my first kit, I'm looking at the "RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press Master Kit" from Midway USA. Any opinions on it?

Get a reloading kit and of course a reloading bible. Most starter kits will have everything you need. It may not be the most efficient way to reload but it will work. You need to just get started then you can figure out what you need to suite your needs. If you get set up and need help let me know.

Just my .02

[<MADDOG>]

Foxtrot said it best...Start on the low end, and if you like it, you will quickly "move up". I started with the RCBS Partner Press, which I still use for my bolt action/accuracy rounds, and then I moved up to a couple different progressives for pistol calibers. I could add to his list, but he nailed it,
"3 billion accessories they make for reloading that you really shouldn't buy until you have tried, and enjoy it".
Start with the basics, and see if its for you. I have seen a couple of guys spend alot of money on reloading equipment, then go buy factory because they don't like the time spent.

[AR_ART]

Reviving this thread as I'm planning on getting into reloading. I'm planning on starting with handgun rounds, 45 ACP, 9mm para.

This is a great read with some sound advice.

I still have a couple questions...

My budget is slightly larger and was planning on a Dillon 650. I've read what the "basic" equipment needed per the thread and the recommended items.

I was wondering if there were any other recommend items that you would recommend after the basics and recommended items?

Items that would help ensure accuracy or reduce any risk areas...

TIA

[SA Friday]

Reviving this thread as I'm planning on getting into reloading. I'm planning on starting with handgun rounds, 45 ACP, 9mm para.

This is a great read with some sound advice.

I still have a couple questions...

My budget is slightly larger and was planning on a Dillon 650. I've read what the "basic" equipment needed per the thread and the recommended items.

I was wondering if there were any other recommend items that you would recommend after the basics and recommended items?

Items that would help ensure accuracy or reduce any risk areas...

TIA
Most just starting out start with the Dillon 550, and it's a better choice IMO unless you are planning on going through 30k+ rounds a year. The 550 is easier to change calibers with, easier to learn on, and less likely to set off the primer tube. Ya, it doesn't auto-index. Like I said, unless you are going through boo-koo ammo, that's not going to matter.