So I've discussed this at length with a couple guys from the forum that I hold in high regard, just want a couple more opinions.
So lets use simple math, as I am a simple man.
Let's say I have exactly enough supplies to reload 1000 rounds. I've found what works in my rifle, I shoot a couple thousand rounds per year, I have a couple thousand factory loaded ammo, and I have a single stage press.
One point that has been made is that down the road if I have components left over I can use them as barter material.
Not how much you should reload. it's how much you have the capability to reload. You shoot 1K annually, do you have enough components on hand to replace the 1K shot? Do you have enough to replenish the 1K AND another 1K IF components are backordered? Do you have enough on hand to last 3 years, 4-5 etc. Having components on hand is like having enough food and fluids in stock Just In case.
I advocate having items on hand that if not needed could be bartered for items you do. Now if you find XX100 powder for a steal is it a good deal, if the only use for it is .475 H&H? NO, it's not. Score some H110 and you can barter it all day.
Right now and until furture notice hold on to what you have. $65 per 1K of primers, $125+ for 500 55gr fmj's I understand, just like guns, no one is forcing you to pay those prices. However if that is the norm now, what's down the road. ?
Weigh it against how sad you will be if it dries up and you aren't able to shoot your 1k a year.
Are any of these components things you use for different loads? Projectiles shared between calibers/loads, powders, etc? If so, leave it components. If not, why not load it up and store it so you won't have to worry about it later (and you'll have room to buy more components!)
Load it all and shoot it, you can barter your factory ammo and get a better deal from it than the components. That is if we are talking a popular caliber like 223/556.
I try to keep plenty of components on hand at any given time but usually only load up as much as I plan to shoot on my next outing. I keep the factory stuff for SHTF and for bartering with.
I keep enough to keep me running without a hicup, Then I frequent the shops and always keep my eyes peeled, if I find something that's a good buy or even a sane price these days, that I use, or KNOW someone else will, I buy it and hold onto it.
For example I load H335 in my 223 ammo and another load, but also used to use Varget, but don't anymore. If I stumble across some Varget for a reasonable price I buy it and hold onto it. (I know it's damn near unobtainium right now but just using it as a common example) point being I know that if I get to a point where I need H335 or another powder I can ALWAYS trade Varget for something else I need, or I can just revert back to my Varget load and use it. No lose situation that way. Same with pretty much any small rifle or small pistol primers.
Overall IMO, in your shoes right now, I'd hold onto it all right now unless you get in a bind and NEED cash. All can be sold as components and factory ammo can be sold. Your own hand loads, not so much. If your current stock gets depleted, load it up.
Hypothetical reloading question.
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