7mm-08

[209jones]

Brass & powder supplies seem to be improving, I've seen shelves around here looking fairly well stocked lately, even then, I expect it is all according to what you are looking for. To start off with you can always buy 2 or 3 boxes of cheaper factory ammo to start off with, gives you a baseline to compare to, something to shoot whilst you gather supplies, and some brass that is fireformed in your gun, to use to work up some loads. That should give you some time to hunt for a bag or two of new brass. As a new reloader, try out a pound of H4350 in it and a pound of WW760 or H414 with 140gr bullets. That way you can learn about stick and ball powders, and either of them, are good powders in the 7-08.
And p/u a Hornady case gauge comparator set to use, to set up your dies. Buy the complete kit, it isn't that much more and you'll likely wind up using it for more than one cartridge anyway. http://www.hornady.com/store/Headspace-Gauge-Kits/

 

[RonR]

So I am going to start finally reloading. I will be reloading for my new rifle build that is in the works in 7mm-08. I am having a hard time finding components for the 7mm-08. Is this a popular round to reload, if so why. Also where does everyone recommend buying your reloading supplies from? I also shoot a 300 win mag a lot so I may reload for that as well while my 7mm-08 is in the works so I have an idea of what to do reloading. Do I need many different supplies to reload 2 different calibers? Very very new to this so sorry if this is a repeat.

Hi Trevor,

I load for two different Savage bolt 7-08's.

In terms of components, at first locally here in Saskatoon a few years ago there was not much available for brass which got me into the mail order stuff. (It's better here now due to the what I believe is a cartridge that's gaining popularity) There are lots of well respected site sponsors that have inventory. Between 2 or three you should be able to find everything you need from powder to bullets and everything in between.

Try the sponsors that are closest to your location first to minimize shipping fees if you can and shop around. I've actually found that in some situations, the prices, even after shipping, are lucrative, and service by the "smaller" vendors is exceptional. I learned the hard way about powder supply.

I don't know how much you intend to shoot or for what intentions but as others have stated over time, if it's components you are interested in purchasing...do it when you see it because inventory won't last long. I've learned that there is a difference in component quality that's reflective in the pricing...so if you are in it for the longer haul, consider this going forward.

Other considerations, without knowing your experiences,
- in my case I didn't have a mentor, at least with trying something other than full length resizing every time. If there is an experienced reloader that knows his/her stuff you could learn from I would recommend this. I don't regret how we've developed because through things not going as desired and having issues, it's made for valuable knowledge instead of "do it this way" kind of thinking. I can trouble shoot the reloading process more and with some help from others here have enjoyed success better than anticipated.
- get yourself a couple of books on reloading. Search this forum a bit for key terms like "books" "reading" etc. There are many more experienced here recommending good literature. If you read through posts, you'll find those trusted experienced members you can learn from
- go slowly, be safe and enjoy. For myself it's one of the most rewarding things I've accomplished.
- FWIW, this is my third season loading with press and die.

Regards
Ronr