First batch of reloads

[rman]

Flr those of you who don't know, I am new to reloading. Just set up my LNL AP yesterday, and started off with 45ACP today.



Not sure what OAL should be, but they are all a consistent 2.54" and I've run them through my XDs 4 or 5 times with no setback.

Setting up the dies was a lot easier than I thought. Even got my bullet feeder die set up, just need to add a feed tube.

My next task will be read, read, read my manuals/loadbooks, then dive into dropping powder and making live rounds.

These are the coolest snap caps ever!

Here's a shot with my Lowe's compressor in the background for no good reason.



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[jameshenry]

Those look nice enough to become jewelry.

[Tom-ADC]

Years ago I'd make up dummy rounds for OAL checks ETC but I'd drill small holes in the cases and use the rubber eraser from a wood pencil to cushion the firing pin.
Yours are looking good next part is easy also.

[rman]

thanks guys. i was really overwhelmed yesterday, especially with the powder drop, but after taking a step back and looking at everything, it looks extremely simple. dialing in the dies was cake, i am hoping dialing in the pistol metering thingy isn't too bad.

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[thenodnarb]

I bet they make a small rubber cork that will fit in the primer hole. If nothing else you can make one with a punch like they use for leather working. Eraser sounds good too. How did it hold up?

Love my LNL AP! Just made about 500 rds in about 2 hours time. Good choice OP!

[idntwn2]

2.54??? Do you mean 1.254?

OAL is bullet and powder dependent. Your loading manual should be explicit about it and you should be sure. Not hating on you Bro.

OAL is critical to your success. Look it up and load to it.

[AKaotic]

damn what do you use to clean your brass with? That looks better than brand new ammo.

[Pauliedad]

Well done. I like how you're not rushing (I hope)
I think I got into re loading because a like playing with things that are shiny.
Part monkey.

[rman]

I bet they make a small rubber cork that will fit in the primer hole. If nothing else you can make one with a punch like they use for leather working. Eraser sounds good too. How did it hold up?

Love my LNL AP! Just made about 500 rds in about 2 hours time. Good choice OP!

i havent used them as snap caps actually, just racked/cycled them to check fornsetback.

2.54??? Do you mean 1.254?

OAL is bullet and powder dependent. Your loading manual should be explicit about it and you should be sure. Not hating on you Bro.

OAL is critical to your success. Look it up and load to it.

lol yeah probably. i haven't even opened a manual yet. just testing functionality of the press, bullet feed die, and seat/crimp in 1 station.

damn what do you use to clean your brass with? That looks better than brand new ammo.

some clean better than others. beliwve it or not thats walnut with nufinish and acetone. that batch i only tumbled about 200 cases. when I tumble 400 it doesn't come out as shiny

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[1bulletBarney]

Dummies...

[SonofWWIIDI]

Nice! At first I thought you were gonna say rookie mistake.


But those will make nice snap caps. Just make sure they are clearly labeled and seperate from live ammo.

[Kmai24]

Someone else has posted this before but it's a pretty good "rule of thumb" for OAL for 45's
12345
1.23=45

Looks like you have a bullet feeder too..do some shopping online at linens and things for some clear plastic tubes to hold your projectiles. You can google DIY bullet feeder and you'll find it right away. Very handy!!

[rman]

Someone else has posted this before but it's a pretty good "rule of thumb" for OAL for 45's
12345
1.23=45

Looks like you have a bullet feeder too..do some shopping online at linens and things for some clear plastic tubes to hold your projectiles. You can google DIY bullet feeder and you'll find it right away. Very handy!!

thanks! i just food a quick Google search and ran with a measurement. cycled thru and my main concern was set back.... time to crack open the manuals!

also, i got the bullet feedind dies for every caliber after seeing the $28 bullet feeder... so far i can fit a handful off bullets in the die alone and got it working just fine. loading cases only is a breeze!


Also got the RCBS lockout set, and tested it (with tumbler media), works like a charm.

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[sbmunshi]

If anyone has the link to the clear tubes - post 'em. Thanks.

[Jon Road King]

I always load one dummy exactly like that for every round combination. Got a nice little line of dummies started on my loading bench. One of these days I'll make a nice display case for them...

And grats!