Randall's "pistol ammo is too expensive" list

[GixxRacer]

thanks for the info in this thread wanting to get into reloading my self.

[Lead Waster]

Guys, this is a time vs money issue. For the absolute least expensive way to reload, consider the Lee Loader kits. Seriously, for $25 bucks, you can start reloading .45 acp.

Check out this youtube video of Richard Lee himself, loading up a rifle round in 40 seconds! Even if you don't plan to get a lee loader, watch the vid! It really shows that reloading should not be intimidating and can be pretty simple. The only thing I'd do different is using a powder scale versus using the lee powder dipper, but it's been selling for like 50 years or something, so it can't be that bad!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeEl9wZyabc

[Lead Waster]

Oh, I should mention...whether or not you currently reload ... save your brass! If one day you decide to reload, well you've already saved up the most expensive "consumable" part. If you decide not to, you can probably trade some brass to someone who does reload for some reloaded rounds. Like trade them 1000 used cases for 100 rounds or whatever. (based on 100 rounds of factory 9mm being about 20 or so bucks at it's least expensive, and 1000 fired 9mm cases being about $30-40)

[CodeDog]

You don't need to spend $300-$1000 on reloading equipment to get started.
Lee Classic Loader $21.99
Rubber mallet from the dollar store $1.00

Every weekend I make 100 rounds in a hour or so with this kit and then head over to the range and shoot them.
Works like a charm.

I even made my own vibration brass cleaner from scrap I had around the house.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXz9ZJqehnY

[Craigwood]

Now I hope nobody has discounted the Hornady. It looks as though the Dillon is the popular one. But listen to my argument. Hornady makes bullets and ammo. Lee and Dillon dont. If a company knows how to make ammo, surely they will know how to make a progressive reloaded to do the same. I have a Load N Lock AP. Great peice of equiptment.

[happy trigger]

9mm dies?

What dies do you suggest for 9mm? Is a crimp die necessary, I don't see any on this list?
Thanks,

[Chief-7700]

9mm will require a tapered crimp die to remove the case belling.

[Chief-7700]

Now I hope nobody has discounted the Hornady. It looks as though the Dillon is the popular one. But listen to my argument. Hornady makes bullets and ammo. Lee and Dillon dont. If a company knows how to make ammo, surely they will know how to make a progressive reloaded to do the same. I have a Load N Lock AP. Great peice of equiptment.

I disagree.

[Dreaded Claymore]

I disagree.

Why?

(I'm not trying to be a punk, I'm just trying to get more information.)

[Chief-7700]

My opinion is based on the fact that Dillon used the best features and functions of the Star reloading machine and made it better. After using Dillon products for well over 25 to 30 years I know what works for me.

[locosway]

I'm planning on doing the $250 setup with a 9mm and 10mm die set. I do have a couple questions though.

Is there anything else that's not on the list that I will likely find useful or will eventually need?

How do I know what powder to purchase, or should I wait until my reloading book arrives?

[rkt88edmo]

I think the $250 kit/list that Randall put together is pretty comprehensive, probably no immediate needs but other things you may want to think about:
kinetic bullet puller
extra decapping pins
boxes for loaded ammo (you can save and reuse factory boxes and trays though, just make sure to clearly label everything)

if you do more precision reloading you will want a powder trickler, but or 9mm and 10mm I don't think it will make much difference.


You may want to wait on your manual on powder, but you can also read up on powders online

[Saigon1965]

Whoa - Thought Randall was back for a second there - Nah -

[EmmaGoldman]

my two cents:

I would suggest that newbie reloaders on a budget buy the cheapest Lee non-progressive press kit to begin with (can't remember the name). The difference between this press and the more expensive single stage presses is minimal for handgun ammo.

Many feel that newbies should learn non-progressive first. I'm not sure if I agree completely, but if you are jumping straight to progressive, you should study that Lyman book like your life depends on it.

If you are note mechanically inclined, the Lee progressives may not be for you. I adore mine, but I am a mechanic. The printed instructions are awful! There are better instructions on You Tube. I suggest watching those before buying a press. The Lee progressives are so cheap that multiple caliber-specific presses are a common alternative to changing press setups.

[Cali-Shooter]

Whoa - Thought Randall was back for a second there - Nah -

Same.

my two cents:

I would suggest that newbie reloaders on a budget buy the cheapest Lee non-progressive press kit to begin with (can't remember the name). The difference between this press and the more expensive single stage presses is minimal for handgun ammo.

Many feel that newbies should learn non-progressive first. I'm not sure if I agree completely, but if you are jumping straight to progressive, you should study that Lyman book like your life depends on it.

If you are note mechanically inclined, the Lee progressives may not be for you. I adore mine, but I am a mechanic. The printed instructions are awful! There are better instructions on You Tube. I suggest watching those before buying a press. The Lee progressives are so cheap that multiple caliber-specific presses are a common alternative to changing press setups.

^ ^ ^ This post tricked me into thinking Randall was back