Newbe to reloading handgun ammo

[MrBrent]

I am getting setup to start reloading and patently waiting for some back ordered primers to come in but I have a really simple question that I have searched and searched for an answer. I have a RCBS setup and it came with a case loading block. In the bottom of the holes are numbers 1 & 2. I am sure these are used to keep track of where you are in the process but how are these used?
I will be reloading 9mm and my reloading manual is from Spear and gives Spear bullet part numbers. If i use other manufactures bullets with the same weight is this ok?
Thanks

[f4tweet]

I like the Lee Second Edition reloading manual. It has lots of choices for each caliber. There is no BEST manual.

[762cavalier]

I will be reloading 9mm and my reloading manual is from Spear and gives Spear bullet part numbers. If i use other manufactures bullets with the same weight is this ok?

Yes it will work but always start with the starting loads and work up with a different bullet.

Don't worry about the numbers in the loading block. You will develop a process for keeping track of your own loading process.

If you don't have it, I HIGHLY recommend the Lyman reloading manual. It has a great tutorial on how to load. The Lee book is a close second.

[f4tweet]

Take an NRA class, and find a shooting buddy to coach you. It really smooths out the bumps in learning curve. I know.

[ar15barrels]

The numbers in the bottom of the holes have to do with what size the hole is.
That RCBS tray is universal, having several different sizes of holes.

I recommend getting a dedicated tray with only one size of holes.
Less hassle and they hold a lot more cases...

http://www.midwayusa.com/Search/Default.aspx#reloading%20tray____-_1-2-4_8-16-32

[Fjold]

If you experiment with loads you can keep track of load variations on the loading block. Rows 1&2 have X powder charge, rows 3&4 have Y powder charge, etc.

[scr83jp]

No ammo anywhere so I contacted www.midwayusa and purchased magtech 357 95gr & 45acp 165gr 100 round bags of solid copper bullets.