considering reloading

[carterbeauford]

I was looking at the Lee Anniversary kit for $69.99 from Cabelas... what else do I need? Is this a good basic kit? Totally new to it.

I would be more tempted to get started if it is possible to load a 110 grain Hornady Vmax in .30-06.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

[FrankG]

there have been several threads here regarding people wanting to get into reloading and different types of presses used by many. It is a good idea to search for these threads and other boards regarding hand loading...also there are a few good books out there to read also.... the abc's of reloading and lymans manual...

i myself am just waiting to get my press to start loading myself.

This is the particular kit im looking at getting...has most everything to get you started....

http://www.midwayusa.com/eproductpage.exe/showproduct?saleitemid=646599

 

[Zeke Menuar]

I started with the Anniversary Kit in 1997. The kit was a gift. I am still using most of the stuff that came with it. There are other, better and more expensive starter kits out there. But the Lee will get you going for a minimum investment.


Do your homework. You will need plenty of other equipment. Do a search here. plenty of threads about what a new reloader will need.

ZM.

 

[skipjack]

I would get the kit that includes the manual. You will need dies, a dial or digital caliper, a tray to put your cases in. Of course, you will need primers, bullets and powder.

If you are planning to trim cases, you can get the shellholder and case length gage that complements the cutter and lock stud provided with the kit. The lee kits are a great value, as are their dies. I load 30-06 for a bolt action rifle and neck size only, so case trimming is kept to a minimum, and those cases do not need lubed.

I do keep a full length sizing die on hand for resizing range brass, and those cases need to be lubed. I like hornady one shot for this purpose.

Later on, you might want to get a tumbler to clean your brass, but that is not totally necessary. A powder trickler is another nice extra, as is a bullet puller to correct mistakes.

There are quite a number of online sources of loading data,but the lee manual is a pretty good one. They also have a good website that has several helpful videos.

Good luck and enjoy!

 

[LongShotsin10]

reloading kit

Oh boy - the kit is just a start point - Rock Chucker is a good kit but just the beginning. If you think you are gonna save $ by reloading - think again.
But if you want accuracy, and to experiment - it certainly is lots of fun and agravation as well. :banghead:

I reload everything from shotgun to 300UM, 30-06, 243, 223, 380, 45, 357, 45LC, and 44mag. No money ssaved but lots of learning and fun.
Agravation - mostly stuck cases (lube well).

A single stage press will always be useful, then you are ready to go to a progressive press!

Pick a place that you can have peace and quiet - that you can place a heavy workbench and shelving units in - DRY place - lots of light never hurts either.
Slow but surely work your loads, measure measure measure!

Have fun! Be safe!

 

[Art Eatman]

A 110-grain bullet in the old '06 makes great varmint load. Center punch a jackrabbit and major bodily pieces go in several different directions...

, Art

 

[Deanimator]

I would get the kit that includes the manual. You will need dies, a dial or digital caliper, a tray to put your cases in. Of course, you will need primers, bullets and powder.

You left out a scale!

I would recommend against an electronic scale for a beginner, especially if you're planning to trickle charges. Most of the affordable electronic scales don't register fast enough to be reliable for trickling, whereas a mechanical scale does.

 

[RobW]

If you have a chance, try to get the LEE turret press. I have the old one with 3-hole turrets (besides a RCBS rock chucker and an Lyman T-mag). Great value for a really small change.

To start, you need also a scale, a caliper, and for sure the dies. The whole thing should be available for under $100.00 from Midway, Cabela's, Track of the Wolf et al.

From there, you will know what else you need and can purchase it as needed in an leisurely manner, not burning holes in your wallet.

WARNING! Never EVER go to a pawn shop, gun-show, or gun-store to buy reloading stuff. They'll rip you off! Guess why I know this...

Welcome to the dark science of reloading! It's a hobby in itself.