In this article we will be learning what is needed for reloading ammunition. Call it reloading, rolling your own, or whatever you like it is a great way to make better than factory ammunition.
This will be a primer for more in depth articles on learning to reload your own ammunition. But, first the obligatory disclaimers to keep the lawyers happy.
DISCLAIMER: For reloading information: WARNING: Reloading can be dangerous if you have not been properly schooled in how to reload ammunition. The loads shown are for informational purposes only. They are only safe in the rifle shown and may not be safe in yours. Dangerous chamber pressures can occur resulting in serious injury, damage to rifle, or even death if proper reloading steps are not followed. Consult appropriate load manuals prior to developing your own handloads. Craigsoutdoorsports.com and its authors, do not assume any responsibility, directly or indirectly for the safety of the readers attempting to follow any instructions or perform any of the tasks shown, or the use or misuse of any information contained herein, on this website.
The first, and most important step when learning to load your own ammo is to purchase a reloading manual. It is imperative that you consult and follow reliable sources to stay safe when reloading ammo. If you choose not to follow this advice, please don’t get mad when your friends call you stumpy or one eye!
Sierra and Hornady both print very good and reliable manuals for reloading almost all cartridges available today. If you want to reload with cast bullets, the Lyman handbooks are a good source for the needed information. Always consult a manual when learning to reload ammo and each time you start a reloading session.
Now is the time to get your reloading press ready. This will be determined by what type press you have, but will require caliber specific dies, priming tubes, etc. to be installed on the press. The most basic press is all that is really needed, such as the RCBS Partner Press shown here.
You will also need a way to measure powder. A good quality beam scale calibrated for measuring grains for smokeless powders is a good choice for making your own custom ammo. You can also use one of the many electronic scales that are available for measuring powder if that is your choice.
Next, after finding the needed information to safely load for the caliber you are rolling, gather all the needed components. You will need brass casings, primers, powder, and bullets.
In the next article, we will start showing the actual steps to take for rolling your own ammo. Please follow along if you are learning to reload ammo.
Click here for article 2 of this series: https://craigsoutdoorsports.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=164&action=edit