Reloading... Worth it?

[sigstroker]

The cost of the reloading equipment has gone way up in the last several years also. You have to shoot a LOT to justify the cost of a Dillon. I bought my stuff years ago when the smallest Dillon cost the same as a half-case of ammo. Now they cost the same a a half-case of post panic ammo. Plus, right now components are nowhere to be found, and very expensive when you do find them.

[jameshenry]

Some of the ebay buyer are bidding reloading items higher than you can get for new. I think they don't want to wait for dealer stock/restock time.

[christmasstorm]

So then if I do start, what reloaded to get? Dillon? Do you go bells and whistles or? Sorry I'm new. Yeah, this would have been great to start a while ago but, everyone has to start some time.

[stormvet]

Depends how much money and time you want to invest. I always felt beginners should start with a single stage press, learn the ins and outs of reloading. After you have a solid understanding of the process then move to a progressive if desired.
It is much easier to make mistakes on a progressive system. The single stage will make you slow down and pay closer attention to details.
Not saying you can't jump feet first in to a progressive system, it's just safer and easier to learn with a single stage press.

[bender152]

Personally, I would not get into reloading now. In some cases, components are harder to come by than factory ammo. Even if you happen to find everything you need to reload, you still need to take the time to learn how to reload and spend time reloading. That's one thing that often goes unmentioned, the time it takes to reload. If you plan on shooting on a Saturday, you better not wait until Friday night to reload.

As for economics, it will pay itself off in the long run. However, be prepared to spend a good amount on your initial setup and components. I've spent close to 2k on equipment alone and I'm just now feeling comfortable. Could I have spent less? Absolutely, but I like making my life easier when I can and making my reloading process more efficient.

Some people enjoy the reloading process and find it relaxing. I am not one of those people. As such, I want the process to be as quick as possible while still remaining accurate. So I bought the additional equipment needed to make this happen (second press, auto trimmer, etc).

On top of that, you still have to buy components. If cost is your main concern, then you will want to buy in bulk. You'll get a cheaper rate in doing so. I reload for 9, 45, 223, and 308. Buying bullets, primers, and powder (and brass, if you need it) in bulk for 4 calibers is not cheap.

Before the panic:
- case of 5k primers - $125
- powder - ~$20/lb
- cases of bullets (varying amounts based on caliber) - ~$280ea

As you can see, it quickly adds up.

Again, reloading will pay itself off, but it will take most shooters a few years to come out ahead.

[vonderplatz]

I started by finding someone who wanted out of reloading, but that took a lot of time.

[Simply115]

Very much so.

[alfred1222]

Reloading doesn't save you any money, it just lets you shoot 2x or 3x more

[drkphibr]

Regardless of the monetary costs or savings

I think the bottom line is

Is this something you want to do with your spare time?

This ^.

Reloading is actually not about the money, as you'll find that you end up shooting 2x-3x more than if you had to buy it commercial. The benefit of reloading is the control/satisfaction of what you produce (for match, plinking, hobby, etc.). You'll end up spending a TON of $ on your gear as it's an addicting activity that you always seem to find a reason to purchase that one special thing to do a specific job better. Can you produce rounds that are less expensive per round than commercial? Absolutely. Will you actually save any money? Doubtful. Will you regret your spend to get into reloading? Depends on your reasoning for getting into reloading.

All I can say is "what ammo shortage?" Don't treat your reloading components like you do the food in your fridge. Stock up a bit so you can ride out times like this (depends on your shooting volumes as well). Just in time delivery might work for some industries, not the best approach for picking up reloading consumables. False sense of availability in "normal" times when all it takes is one incident and then a scrambling bunch of reactive lawmakers to bring supply to a grinding halt.