"My first reloading kit" :P

[Requiem]

So I made a thread in here a while back about beginning to handload and I've been reading and studying the subject because I'm very interested in it. Now I want some help deciding on what equipment to buy for my goal.

I have a SOCOM 16 that I shoot with, and I would like to make Match Grade ammunition but in large quantities. However, my understanding is that progressive reloading presses are best for quantity but not necessarily for quality, whereas single stage presses take a longer time but are more designed for making quality ammunition. I personally want the best of both worlds AND the simplest for a beginner. Here are some ideas of reloading presses, but PLEASE if you feel there is one with the best of both worlds, recommend it. Thanks:

Lee Classic Cast Single Stage Press (obviously this one I'd need to buy all the other stuff, whereas the others are full kits)

Lee Challenger Breech Lock Single Stage Press Kit

Cabela's and RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Deluxe Reloading Kit


Those are just three presses/kits that I've looked at to show examples.



Other stuff I intend to buy (some is on this list in case it's not in a kit):
ABC's of reloading
Loadbooks USA "308 Winchester" Reloading Manual
Hornady reloading manual
Press (already spoken of)
Case Length Gauge
Shellholder
Dies


Thankyou for all the help. I hope to get started on this soon.

[Army GI]

I believe the Breech Lock model is the best deal for the money. Midway actually sells those for half the price of a classic Lee single stage. They must be trying to get rid of them. The Classic is close to $100 whereas the Breech Lock is $45.

The RCBS is the best quality.

The Lee Breech Lock kit is what I started out with when I got into reloading and I'd recommend that for you. I'd recommend that to anybody who's interested in reloaded but doesn't know if he'll like it. The Lee option gives you the experience with the smallest initial investment. Plus they're really sellable too to newbs.

[Darklyte27]

I got the Challenger kit from wideners, it was around 85$
currently out of stock

http://www.wideners.com/itemdetail.cfm?item_id=8126&dir=210|212|237

for what you get its great, it has the auto prime where you can hand prime while watching tv etc.. once you know what you are doing.

[CmpsdNoMore]

I was thinking about getting the RC Supreme Deluxe kit.
I have no experience with reloading besides for what I've read (a lot) about the different aspects. It's really jumping into it, but I think I would appreciate the nicer scale, powder thrower and the accessories (trimmer and trim mate).

[Desertfox]

I got the RCBS turret press. I love it. I do recommend it for you.

[Darklyte27]

What I didnt want was to spend alot of money first.
The challenger kit is great for getting your feet wet. Later down the road I might get a Dillon later on, or just use my friends haha.

The RCBS powder measure/dispenser is awesome but its 320$ though and a bit slow if you are going to reload alot.

[vwynn]

what happen to the hornady guys?

[Full Clip]

I basically have the RCBS setup pictured. It's worked great for me.
My setup:

[DB2]

I would suggest you look at the Hornaday LockNLoad kit. It comes with everything you need to get started. It comes with a digital scale now. Unlike the RCBS which has a balance scale. It may cost more than a RCBS, but with the Free bullet offer, it's a wash.

It already comes with the Hornaday manual.

I looked at both and decided on the Hornaday. I am very happy with it.

[Requiem]

I would suggest you look at the Hornaday LockNLoad kit. It comes with everything you need to get started. It comes with a digital scale now. Unlike the RCBS which has a balance scale. It may cost more than a RCBS, but with the Free bullet offer, it's a wash.

It already comes with the Hornaday manual.

I looked at both and decided on the Hornaday. I am very happy with it.

Wow thanks, I'll look into this a bit more. I do like the fact that it comes with a digi powder scale.

Also, anyone have tips for a guy with little space and would probably have to set up a reloading station in his room? I was looking at the Frankford Arsenal Portable Reloading Stand but it has mixed reviews and looks very unstable and unsturdy :\

[evollep3]

i was looking at midway as well and you know if you are looking at the 4 turret press from lee Midway has a great cheap kit for .308's its only like $220 or something like that and it includes everything the breach kit and case holders

[Chaingun]

If you go with a Lee Classic Cast Single Stage Press you must purchase Toggle Links to go with it, the weak link for this press.

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productnumber=281260

I have one for .223 brass processing and they do break often. I have a large hose clamp around where the handle enters the links, to distribute the force.

Spend a bit more and get a Rockchucker starters kit. Use your 03 FFL for a discount

[mecam]

The Lee is an excellent learning kit.