.308 reloading starting from scratch

[Dingo]

Reloading is a hobby I've wanted to get into for years, and the current price of .308 is a great motivator. I've also heard it's a good basic round to learn on. I'm looking to get started with the absolute most basic and affordable (without being crap quality) setup/equipment out there. Considering I'm completely new to reloading (as in I will have to invest in a "... For Dummies" type book before even loading anything), what would you guys recommend? I don't care if it is a time-consuming and awkward arrangement, just need something that will enable me to learn to load some decent .308. What all will I need to get set up?

Thanks in advance for the help!

[bigmyk2k]

Regarding a good "How-To" book, I would recommend The ABC's of Reloading. It doesn't get into specific loads, but is a very thorough walk-through of the process.
Regarding equipment, there is a whole range of discussion, but the real starter question is: What's your budget? That is going to have a huge impact on what kind of equipment you get.

[bigmyk2k]

Oh, also, there is a pretty good discussion on everything you'll need for a complete (albeit, pretty top-end) setup at this thread. As for me, I got the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Kit, which has just about everything I needed to start out. Just have to get dies, a case trimmer, lubes and a tumbler as items not included. There is a great deal on them at Cabela's right now, $280, before a $50 mail in rebate, if you spend $300 total (easy to do once you add on the dies etc). I really want to get a Dillon 650 eventually, but I'll just save up for it out of my savings from reloading now.

[Tim K]

Drive an hour and come see me in Woodland Park. I just went through the process of getting someone started last weekend.

The starter kits are a good deal. Pick one in your price range, add dies and a tumbler and have at it.

[Delfuego]

Tricklers, primer pocket tools and calipers too!

[Zombie Steve]

Drive an hour and come see me in Woodland Park. I just went through the process of getting someone started last weekend.

The starter kits are a good deal. Pick one in your price range, add dies and a tumbler and have at it.

Another invite if you just want to come down to the Springs. You're invited too, Tim.

[Jherexx]

I would start at RCBS website, they have a step-by-step reloading tutorial http://www.rcbs.com/guide/step_by_step_reloading.aspx# that is pretty helpful

[paddywagon]

Another great book with tremendous info is Lyman's reloading manual. I always recommend that one to new reloaders. I too can walk you through the process on one of my machines and am very local to you. .308 is a very easy caliber to load but like others you need to be methodical about it. Give me a shout!

[Dingo]

Awesome... thanks for all the pointers. Will start investigating and check back in after a bit. Paddywagon - might take you up on that after I learn enough to know what I don't know! lol. Appreciate it.

[Colorado Black Gun]

I'm available in the South Pinery 4 miles North of Franktown as well. Been reloading 40 years and would be happy to give you my $0.02 worth. I've been a RCBS fan for years but their quality is slipping and am in the process of switching to Lyman dies. Just goggle reloading and you will be on information overload.