Advice for a noob on precision .223 loading needed

[Solidsnake87]

Ok ok, I recently started a thread about reloading. I think I have a bare-bones idea of whats involved and some guidance on what tools to get but I really need to expand on this. I am no novice to metal or machine work but this is a whole different ballpark.

At this point I see that I need:

1.) some kind of a press kit with powder gauges, ect...
2.) a case tumbler with a separator (The description tell me what the machine does but I don't really know what this is for)
3.) loading manuals
4.) Case trimmer (I have some idea what this is for)
5.) Various micrometers that I have no idea what they do or how to use them. (the only micrometers I have ever used are the electric ones or mechanical ones every engineering school or metal shop has. I have no idea what gun related micrometers I need or what they do)
6.) Dies (I have used many dies in my life but what do these particular dies do and which ones do I need?)
7.) Some type of brass cleaning/polishing device

Prc329 posted this link for me, which was helpful as a tool list.
http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=60848


However, Do these items listed come with instructions? I have never reloaded before and don't want to expend money on equipment I don't know how to use.

Also, while shooting is my favorite passtime, I don't shoot more than 300 rounds a month and thats pushing it. I'm looking for a quality set of tools that will last me a lifetime but will allow me to produce match quality .223 ammunition without breaking the bank. I'm in college so I need my money in other things too. lol.

Please give me your advice. I liked concept of the Dillon mass re-loaders (I'll definitely buy one in the future for plinking ammo) but they seem to be geared towards those that shoot thousands of rounds a month rather than those seeking serious precision ammo.

Please tell me what you think I should get as well as any accessories I will need. Again your help is much appreciated.

Thanks,
Clark

P.S-My number one concern is safety. My greatest fear is to double charge a round. If the tools you list will make it very safe to reload I'll feel better about reloading. Obviously you should pay attention and wear safety equipment but I really would like some peace of mind. I'd hate to blow up my precision AR that I've invested 2K in over the course of a year.

[rksimple]

Get a Sierra manual first and start reading before you even get started. Lots of good info there. It will explain what these various pieces of equipment are for and how to use them. There are also some other places online that describe the process. Just take your time and, if possible, have someone help you through it. Where are you located?

[Solidsnake87]

I'm in Fair Oaks near Sac. I would not mind taking a drive if somebody can show me the process in depth and show me how to use the equipment.

[CSACANNONEER]

I'm in Fair Oaks near Sac. I would not mind taking a drive if somebody can show me the process in depth and show me how to use the equipment.

That's the best thing to do! I hope somebody here is willing to invite you over for a class (I'm 8 hours from you or, I would).

[rksimple]

I'm in Fair Oaks near Sac. I would not mind taking a drive if somebody can show me the process in depth and show me how to use the equipment.

I'm 5 hours south. If you don't mind the drive, I'd be happy to show you. Then go shoot the ammo you loaded out to 1000 yards if you want...

[Solidsnake87]

Lol. Your offer is tempting but I doubt I'd hit anything at 1000 yards. I have little to no experience with wind reading/elevation and my precision rifle is only equipped with a VX-1 at the moment. I won't have any long range shooting ability till I get a Leupy VX-II 6-18x40 AO target scope on my rifle and I probably won't have that for a month if funds allow. For now, I just want consistent 1 MOA groupings (or better) at 100 yards.

At this point I don't even know how expensive reloading will be in terms of equipment and materials. All I understand is that you can produce consistent match quality ammuntion for much less than purchasing some. I definitely know that re-loading is definitely beneficial in the long run for any type of ammo.

Anybody closer to sac by chance?

[Technical Ted]

Since you're in Sac, head over to the Sportsman's Warehouse in Rocklin. They have everything you need to get started in reloading. They may even offer seminars.
http://www.sportsmanswarehouse.com/store.cfm?storeNum=149

[Solidsnake87]

Thanks for that link!

[30Cal]

Individual items will have instructions on how to use them, but you'll need some blanket guidance to get you through everything that needs to be done as far as actually building ammo.

A good portion of the Highpower shooters out there load on Dillon gear. The press, dies and other hardware play a paultry roll in the accuracy you get out the muzzle. Bullet choice and your selection of charge weight make up probably 98% of the game.

Ty

[kg6mti]

PM Sent.