Depending on what I am loading, I could use one of several methods. In my infancy, I used a Lee Classic Loader (no money and ALL time), especially at the range to load sighting-in ammo once I found the right charge. You have no idea of the time THAT saved. Then I got a used Challenger and dies. I really liked that, but still had to use the loader at the range. Then I found the Lee Hand Press and managed to get a used scale (a Lyman 500, but it was graduated in GRAMS and every load had to be converted, SLOW). NOW my groups began to shrink.
I was convinced that I would eventally be shooting semis (I think the guy just wanted to sell the press since 15 years later I still own no handguns and my only semis are SKSs or .22s) I then picked up a used turret press in a trade, convinced of the fact that I would now be able to do more in less time ( time was now compressed). That press sat for a few years because I was happy with my single stage life.
Compared to where I started, I have a veritable ammunition factory in my house. My process has evolved to one much like ren666, so, Even when I use the turret press, it is still single stage, but with the powder measure in a plate with a bullet seater and a factory crimp die, I can turn out 100 rounds of ANYTHING I own in less time than it takes to shoot them.
The only thing I reload at speed is .223 for a buddy. Even loaded on a turret press with very little case prep, it is better ammo than bulk surplus. And I can do over 100 rds an hour, if I have to start from a scratch set-up. Easy 200 rds if I do not need to set up or determine charge weight on the measure.
So, OP, you are not crazy. I enjoy this hobby, each step is therapeutic, it forces me to slow down and expand my time. It is not about rushing through as fast as I can, just so that I can rush out to the range and slam them out as fast as I can, so I can get back to my stupid busy life. I did that in my early life, when children were home. Never seemed to be enough time to work that out. Luckily, I was mostly broke so I only had 2 cartridges to play with anyway. I have rounds I worked up last winter that I have yet to fire this year, but hunting season is nearing done and I will have more time again. Even now, though, I can do my tests at my property at 50yds and not have to drive an hour each way to the range until I have determined my best loads.
they grab deep !
