Considering getting into reloading~no clue where to start

.22LRGUY

.22LRGUY

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Hey guys, an answer to this question might require some time...so I'm hoping someone is feeling generous. :) Had a great day at the range this past weekend, was the first time I was really able to put a good number of .223 down the pipe through my varmint gun. (Savage Precision 10) When hunting, if I take even 5-10 shots a day, it's a busy one but when faced with the decision about whether or not to do any target work with it, the frugal part of my brain chimes in "don't do it, this ammo is about $1.25 a round!" That didn't stop me on Saturday, but I'm down about 3 boxes and need to re-stock tonight. Here is the question;

I don't re-load, don't know anyone who does...so the "mentor" idea might be out the window. I AM interested in knowing if there is a video that covers the basics out there and more importantly, if anyone can tell me everything I will need, new or used, to try this out~and the associated costs. I should also say upfront...saving money isn't my only incentive to try this, I am really curious to see if I can really dial-in what my rifle likes too. I also like small, precise tools...tinkering...so I think I have the right mindset for the job. (I program a CNC router, tie all sorts of flies for fly fishing...that sort of thing) Anyhow, I know with something like fly tying...one needs to tie a sh*t load of flies to even come close to realizing any savings....so cost to set-up might make or break my interest at this point.

I live just north of Toronto, in case anyone wants to suggest a place for supplies...or has nice gear to sell...whatever.

Thanks so much for taking the time to reply.
 
I'm going to suggest that your first step should be a large paperback called . The ABCs of Reloading. It's a very good general introduction to reloading and will answer a whole bunch of questions about types (as opposed to brands) of gear, the process, safety, etc. Read that and you will be in a much better position to start from.

You can count on spending (for new, 'Chevie' gear) $300-500. Used is less, of course. But be warned - there are all kinds of bells and whistles available and we reloaders are the worst gear whores this side of fishermen.
 
You can use Youtube to see it done.

But you should try to find a reloader in your area who is willing to teach you. there is no substitute for learn from someone who has already made most of the mistakes a novice reloader makes.

I learned from a gentleman while living in Texas. His 40 years of reloading experience kept me from making a lot of mistakes.

You should also buy a good reloading manual. Most people will say get the ABC of reloading. I didn't like it. I use the Lyman reloading manual.

Where just north of Toronto are you? I may be able to find a tutor for you.

BTW for the .223 the load you want is 23.5 gr of H335 and a 60 gr bullet. We have found this load to be perfect in stock Stevens and Savage guns. It also is amazing in my Shillen barreled Stevens.

If you need brass, let me know. I have about 5000 pieces and could part with 1000 very easily.

The list of what you need has been covered in many threads already but here is my short list. Others will chime in with items I have left off but with this equipment you can start reloading.

1) Reloading Manual
2) Reloading Press. I recommend a single stage (RCBS Rockchucker or Lee Classic Cast). Do not buy a kit. Too much crap that you don't need.
3) Dies. One set for each caliber. Lee is fine but RCBS is better. ie more expensive too!
4) Electronic scale. Get a small "druggy" scale capable of .2 grains of accuracy. Carefull here. They say .01 grams.
4a) You will need a funnel that fits over your case that you can pour the powder through.
5) Length sizing tools. I suggest getting the Lee Length sizers. Basically foolproof.
6) Chamfer and deburring tool. Helps clean up the brass before reloading.
7) Powder, Projectiles, Primer, Brass.
8) Tumbler or Vibrating brass cleaner. You won't need this day one but it should go on your list of second round purchases.
 
Thanks for the info. guys, much appreciated. tbrwlf~interested in that bullet you're suggesting. For hunting purposes, I'm using the Hornady 55gr. V-Max but just tried their 53gr. "SuperPerformance" stuff and found it to have a slight-edge accuracy wise. Granted, I was shooting off a bipod trying to replicate my prone-shooting varmint work. :) Anyhow, it's not the first time I've heard someone suggest a 60gr. bullet. My rifle has a 20" carbine barrel, 1:9 rate of twist.

I am 40 minutes north of Toronto, and am a fairly normal guy :)...if you know anyone in the area.
 
Ellwood Epps north of Orillia and Williams Arms in Port Perry are two shops you might like to check out.
 
You can't go wrong with pickign up a copy of The ABC's Of Reloading. Not technical Data really (and why some don't prefer it over other options), but a great introduction to reloading, and what it's all about. For the price of a book, that has some good info in it for any shooter, it's the cheapest "intro" you could ask for.

That said, I'm in your area, been reloading for 20 years and still have all my fingers and haven't blown up a gun yet :p ... and load for 223.

PM sent.
 
Start with the Lyman book. Thats what I did because I was told it was very thorough and an easy read - correct on both counts. It also has some good load data in it.
 
You will find people who reload are quite opinionated, you can learn more from the manual and some basic tools with fewer bad habits at the end of the day then getting into a gear debate and a "I do this and that" thread...

the unfortunate part of learning to reload is you can read every book but without a press to tinker with most of the words on paper will make little sense, what gear is I front of will dictate the quality and enjoyment of your hobby...

Lee makes a basic starter kit that is all most every thing you need to start including a load manual.
Xttp://www.cabelas.ca/index.cfm?pageID=71&section=1187&section2=1285&section3=1474&ID=3534

RCBS does as well
Xttp://www.cabelas.ca/index.cfm?pageID=71&section=1285&section2=1481&ID=4573

Hornady
Xttp://ca.wholesalesports.com/storefront/reloading/presses/lock-n-load-classic-kit/prod56801.html

All kits come with reloading manuals, all kits are missing a few pieces... But pick what you want and then fill in the blanks...

Budget $500 to get rolling and the sky is the limit after that...
 
http://fsreloading.com/html/xcart/LOAD-MASTER-223-REM.html
Personally I wouldn't recommend running this as a progressive until you have a feel for how it works, but if you only install one die at a time you can run it as a single stage until you get a feel how each step works.
And once you have more confidence you have a progressive already mounted on your bench to work with. Of course you will still need to buy a scale, trimmer, calipers, reloading guide, etc; but this press comes with the dies you will need included in the price.
 
You have come to the right place to start. There is lots of info, just do a search in this form on starting to reload and you will get lots of advise.
I started with Lyman's Reloading Manual and went from there. It's a never ending hobby.
257 Roberts
 
Thanks so much for the info. guys...I think I'm sliding towards reloading now. More research to do, but the cash is ready...unless I succumb to .17 Hornet temptation... :)
 
The lee reloading is a good book. I was much like you when I started,clueless. The LEE book was very good. The other good thing was the Dillon press and their fantastic support. These guys helped me along the way to setup my press and where full of useful information.

BUT, read, read and read again, learn the principals and you will do fine. ALWAYS check, and check your rounds again and document , label the batches with your load data, keep a copy of the load data in a master book or index. Learn how to read your spent brass, for sighs of over pressure, and other ailments. Ask questions and you will discover a whole new universe in the world of reloading. Welcome aboard!
 
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