NEWBIE Reloader Needs Advice. Help please

[Turbinator]

I've had good luck with Lizard Litter from a pet store. Packed as "litter" and priced accordingly. I find it works well. It's crushed Walnut shell.

Yes - not just lizard litter but any type of cage liner material meant for the bottom of a pet cage, made from walnut shell, will do. I have some that I bought awhile back from a pet store. The walnut shell from the pet store is a LOT cheaper than buying it from a reloading supply place.

and a pound of HP-38 sit across my room with my name on it as we speak

That pound of HP38 won't last you very long once you get in the swing of things. You may want to consider targetting 5 to 10 pounds total.

I've had great luck with xtremebullets.com for plated 9mm and 30 carb

I reload Berry's Bullets 115gr plated bullets for target use and plinking. I've been using 115gr for awhile, along with Winchester 231 powder and HP38. Both powders have worked well (some say they are identical but I would not take a chance mixing them up).

I'm still waiting for components to come back down to pre-2000 price levels. Looks like that's not happening for awhile.

Turby