Actual reloading needs

[robertmpalmquist]

Hey all-

I’m thinking I want to get into reloading. I currently have a 6.5 PRC and a 30-06. Will probably get more guns as well. Wondering what I actually need to start reloading both. I’m not looking to save money on ammo, just shoot more and more accurately. I’m currently buying choice ammo and it’s about $4/round for the 6.5 PRC that I shoot more often. I’m wanting to know what I must have to get going and not spend an arm and a leg. Minimum items needed, but able to do both.

Thanks everyone

 

[blacktailcentral]

Whats your honest round count a year and budget for reloading gear? If you dont want to post dm me ill point you in the right direction

 

[Taudisio]

The basics-
Press
Resizing die (one for each caliber)
Seating die (they make a universal one for most calibers)((you can always get a die set for each caliber))
Calipers (I like analog)
A brass prep tool (handheld is fine to start like the Lyman, but an electric one saves time and your wrists)
Scale (analog or electric, your choice)
Powder scoop (Lee dippers are cheap and work)
Powder funnel (the cheapest Lee one works great)
Powder to match caliber/load
Brass
Primer to match brass/load
Bullets you want to use

Edit to add, I forgot lube. (Imperial sizing wax is the best I’ve used and will last a long time. Redding is the same thing)

 

[robertmpalmquist]

Whats your honest round count a year and budget for reloading gear? If you dont want to post dm me ill point you in the right direction

I’d love to spend less than 1200. And I probably shoot 500 total rounds a year. Not a ton. I’d like to shoot more, but honestly don’t think I’d ever crack the 1000 mark with either of those rifles.

 

[Sled]

I started with a lee kit to see if the activity would stick with me. It worked fine and I eventually upgraded. There are a lot of threads on this to look through but you can cut learning curve in a few areas at the start which might improve your ability to stick with it.

 

[nm.otter]

There are a lot of threads on this to look through

...most recently, this one.

 

[blacktailcentral]

Hornady single stage lock n load kit $420
Rcbs prep station $120
21st century primer $200
Rcbs chargemaster $300
This is an awesome setup for the money

 

[A382DWDZQ]

Don’t forget a set of scale check weights and caliper calibration bars.

 

[blacktailcentral]

Harbor freight calipers will get you started for $25

 

[blacktailcentral]

Don’t forget a set of scale check weights and caliper calibration bars.

The hornady kit has weights thatll do what he needs

 

[nm.otter]

Also, their Iron Press Kit comes with a better assortment of stuff.

 

[TaperPin]

I’d buy this setup off eBay and add a $20 dial caliper, and a $30 Lee case trimmer and powder scoop set will get you making accurate reloads. Lee makes a great inexpensive all in one kit for the same price.

 

[ShakoMako]

Check FB marketplace and Craigslist. Plenty of lightly used secondhand setups in my area.

I have the Hornady LnL single stage press I got 15 years ago. I’ve often considered upgrading but I find it my needs and realistic shooting output.

 

[Pinchecharlie]

this

 

[hoooogan]

$1200 is a not a "minimum items needed" budget, $120 is. Even then, you can do it.

I started with a Lee Challenger press/die kit, a cheap pocket scale and 3d printed funnel. It was under $100 new. Already had a digital caliper. Loaded plenty of sub MOA ammo with that.

 

[DadWil]

Check at your local range for people that already reload a group of reloaders that share resources is a great way to get started...
check your local library for books on reloading...

 

[robertmpalmquist]

Thank you everyone! Appreciate the feedback.

 

[Marbles]

The summery and list I made getting started.

Reloading process is
-Hornady one shot
-Deprime/resize
-check case length/trim if over
-Prime
-Powder
-Seat bullet

Single Stage Press (RCBS Rock Chucker or Lee 50 BMG)
RCBS charge master
Hand Primer (RCBS universal)
Trimmer (Lyman EZ Trim)
FL Die Set (RCBS)
Hornady funnel set
Hornady one shot for lube
Chamfer/Deburring tool (lyman hand held)
Headspace gauge (Lyman)

 

[Marbles]

I will add, I did not go as cheap as possible, rather I shot for quality and a process I would find workable.

While the Charge Master trickles the next powder charge I seat the bullet. Minimizes the risk of double charging (would be very noticeable with my powder charges, but makes a mess) or failing to charge a case.

 

[TexasAg99]

All advice above is solid. I would additionally suggest that step 1 would be to buy a reloading manual from any of the big players (RCBS, Hornady, Lee, etc.) and read it front to back. You will likely find it enjoyable...and it's a great resource to keep on your bookshelf once you start loading (even though you can find load data online). Then, start making some decisions on equipment and ask around from folks on places like here for advice/opinions. Have fun!