Reloading 12ga and rifle/pistol

[garyc]

I'd like to start reloading 12 gauge but would also like to reload some rifle rounds and maybe 9mm/45 in the future. Can I buy one press (single stage would be fine) or is it a completely different set up for shotshell's vs brass?

[joelogic]

Completely different presses.

[NoNOS67]

Completely different presses.

^^^^This. I have several presses for 12Ga alone. Kinda nice not having to adjust them when switching to a different load.

[bruceflinch]

Not only are they different presses, Most shotgun presses are for one gauge only. The Rifle/Pistol press does most calibers of either.

[kmca]

I believe there was a manufacturer who did have dies that would fit in a single stage press, but for the cost, you're probably better off getting a used MEC single stage.

[garyc]

Ok, thanks for the input. What press would you suggest for 12 gauge. I'd like to have a quality one that will last me, but don't mind buying it used. I'd prefer single stage until I get a good handle on reloading. This would be my first time and I'm learning by myself! (Same question for a ss pistol/rifle press. I'd don't think I would reload for my 9mm, since I can get ammo relatively cheap, but I would like to load for my rifles and a .45 when I get it.

[Bill Steele]

Ok, thanks for the input. What press would you suggest for 12 gauge. I'd like to have a quality one that will last me, but don't mind buying it used. I'd prefer single stage until I get a good handle on reloading. This would be my first time and I'm learning by myself! (Same question for a ss pistol/rifle press. I'd don't think I would reload for my 9mm, since I can get ammo relatively cheap, but I would like to load for my rifles and a .45 when I get it.

It depends on what you will be loading in 12ga, but for target loads, it is pretty hard to beat Remington Gun Clubs on sale. If you want to load Buck or something like that, then you will save a lot.

MEC 600 Jr. is a great single stage press, MEC Sizemaster is a step up for a single stage with collet sizing, either will last a lifetime.

If you think you are going to be moving up to a progressive press down the road, and want to just get your feet wet, the Lee Load-All II is hard to beat at like $50.

[garyc]

I plan on loading 12 gauge target loads, not so much for the savings but for the control of components/performance.

[AAShooter]

Personally, decide how much you are going to be reloading and buy the appropriate reloader--progressive or single stage. As folks mentioned, you can get inexpensive 12 gauge shells for about $5.00/box. Depending on what you use to reload, it is tough to beat that price; however, you don't have many choices when it comes to $5.00 shells.

Most competition shooters shoot premium shells and those will run you $7-8.00 a box. If you are reloading with quality components then you can save on those shells. The big payoff comes if you are loading custom loads or some of the sub-gauges like 16 gauge or .410. They get expensive quickly.

But as I tell people, if you are just reloading to save money and don't enjoy doing it, it isn't worth the money.

[mike100]

While I do have a large investment into my pistol reloading gear, I reload shotshells with basic MEC reloaders and am happy enough and don't have the urge to upgrade.

I have two sizemasters. One I bought new for $220 (28 ga) and the 12ga one was acquired in trade for roughly $50 equivalent cash value. Any single stage 600 Jr in 12ga should be easy to find. I prefer the sizemaster because the extra station for resizing is probably good to have, but mainly for the primer feed option not on the very basic unit.

The bigger investment for shotshell reloading will be the components- shot, wads, powders, etc. It is easy to reload shotshells- learn that first and then metallic cartridge reloading will make more sense and will make the learning curve a little less steep.

[AAShooter]

MEC has new Zombie version of the Sizemaster:



Also, MEC has demonstration videos on each of their products. Usually the link is at the bottom of the product's page:

https://www.mecreloaders.com/ProductLine/

[Munk]

Once you're reloading high-brass/high-pressure shells (things that cost $10+ per box, or $1 per shell or more), you'll be saving some serious money.

Buying Tshot or 4 Buck or 00 or something costs about the same as 8 shot (by weight). After that it's just down to the choice of wads, powder and primer. I've been told that your recipe should take your wad choice into account, but I've yet to actually do some shotshell reloading, merely gotten advice from my brother who does, and priced out components.

[AAShooter]

The key to reloading common 12 gauge shells is finding deals and buying in bulk. For example, many ranges mine their shot and get shot in return that they sell. The will often sell it to members at less than market. Big shooters will buy a ton at a time when they find a good deal.

In contrast, if you buy a little shots, a bag of wads and a 1 lb can of powder at a usual sporting goods store, saving money will be difficult.