As I venture into reloading for the first time I could use some advice.
I’m planning to load long pointy bullets, using the often recommended Frankford Arsenal universal seating die.
Am I correct in thinking that I’ll only need a resizing die for each caliber? If that’s the case, does anyone have a bead on where to buy those dies on their own, or should I just be looking at the standard two-die sets?
Thank you!
I don't have experience with the universal seating die you're looking at, it could be great. In my experience, "universal" typically equates to a tool being okay at some tasks, but not great at doing anything exceedingly well. In other words, you're accepting a compromise.
If you're going to take on the investment and time commitment to reload, tools specific to your purpose are recommended.
At a minimum, I think it would be worth getting something similar to the Hornady or RCBS 2-die sets for the calibers you plan to reload. If you plan to reload for two calibers of the same bullet diameter (say 6.5cm and 6.5prc) I would buy a two die set for 6.5cm, a 6.5prc sizing die, then use the seating die interchangeably between the two. If you go with Hornady, you can buy a micrometer seating stem and swap that around between all the seating dies as well.
I'd buy the dies specific to your expectations. I've had good luck with Hornady and RCBS dies for my hunting ammo accuracy expectations.
For semi auto and pistol, I've also loaded a ton of rounds using Lee sizing dies, which can be had for around $20.
Since you're just getting started, I'd guess that the dies you intend to use will make very little difference in your final results.
