Starting out with this setup - whattya think?

[raindog]

I'm just starting out with reloading. I've read a couple books (Lyman's 49th, The ABCs of Reloading, various things on the net). I'm planning on reloading .308, and eventually other rifle rounds. No real plans to reload pistol now (though I save my brass

I do not have a big, heavy bench to mount a press on. I have a workstation like this that I could use if needed.

My plan is to roughly follow this guide:

http://imakeprojects.com/Projects/how-to-reload-rifle-ammunition/

with a few differences:

• I will probably buy the Lee hand loader discussed but will also get their Anniversary Set, which includes a reloading press (and another reloading manual).
• I have an RCBS hand priming tool and the relevant shell holders
• I will buy an electronic scale - something like an RCBS 750 - mainly as a way of double-checking things.

Before I place my order...thought I'd double-check it with the brain trust here.

A couple people have recommended the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme...then again, others have recommended Lee gear, and others Hornady, and others...;-)

I looked at the Rock Chucker Supreme Reloading Kit that RCBS sells, but I already have some of the items and want a better scale.

 

[qajaq59]

You'll probably have to attach the work table to a wall or something solid. Otherwise it's going to want to tip over when you are sizing tha cases. I can't advise you on Lee as I don't use their stuff. But there's plenty of people in here that do. You have the manuals and there is info on that sight. Plus the guys in here will help you, so you should do ok on the loading. Just follow all the rules and don't take short cuts. And when the manual says Max it is just that. Starting at the bottom and working up will work well every time.

 

[rfwobbly]

Wet Dog -
In truth all the presses today are great. There's no junk on the market, so you just have to decide for yourself what fits your budget. When buying new in this hobby, you DO get what you pay for. The best deals are on used equipment because it's difficult to wear these slow moving presses out. So for me, a deal on a 30-year old Rock Chucker outfit with all the bells and whistles is a lot more appealing than a feature-limited brand new press at the same price. But either way, it's no big deal. If you get excited by the hobby, then whatever press you start with is going to be your "backup" press in 5 years anyway!!!

Right now I'm more concerned about your bench. You're going to be applying several tons per sq inch of pressure to a rifle case in order to get it to behave. If you don't want to a) break out into a sweat and/or b) hurt your back, then may I suggest a massively strong reloading bench as your best starting point.

One suggestion a pair of pre-fab steel legs SUCH AS THESE topped off with any length 2x6 you can fit into your space. Cut a piece of 3/4 plywood as a shelf/foot rest for the bottom and use the remainder across the back to prevent rocking. Weight and stiffness are what you want so the bench stays where it's supposed to. Bolt the press down, right over the table leg so they'll be no movement. (This design can start off 3 ft long when your young and poor, and be lengthened as your budget grows.)

Another way to mount a press inexpensively is to get a 30" length of 6x6 post, or a 30" length of 3" steel plumbing pipe. Stand that on end as a mono-pod. Cap it off with a 18x18 piece of plywood, which you use to mount your press. Then secure the plywood top to a sturdy wall. The post absorbs all the downward forces from the press without flexing, and the wall keeps the whole thing from falling over. Then all you need is a cheap yard-sale card table to spread your books and tools out on.

Another way is to find one of those all-steel office desks made during the 1960's at the local thrift store. I see then all the time for $15. But you gotta have a pickup truck and 5 good pals to move it.


Any of those will give you a strong place to do rifle reloading. Enjoy!

 

[Noveldoc]

Doing a long rifle case with a hand loader or hand press can be tough sledding. Would consider working out a way to mount a regular press. I reload on a not too sturdy old computer desk but glued a 12" by 12" piece of 3/8" ply under where the press mounts to take the load. Works fine.

I have used a Lee O shaped single stage and Lee turret press for 30 06 with no problems. Price on Lees is good but any brand name press will serve you well for many years.

Especially if you are just starting, would use a hand prime tool instead of the Lee on press system. Easier I think to develop a feel for when you are seated.

I got a basic cheapo $20 electronic scale off EBay. Like it better than the Lee scale and it is just as accurate.

If you are on a budget, the Lee powder dippers can be pretty accurate if you follow the technique in the instructions exactly. And check with your new scale. I would get a powder dispenser as soon as you can. The Lee is cheapest but a bit flimsy.

Get a case lube pad. I use an old stamp pad from the office store. I thin the Lee case lube with about 1/3 water, roll the case and let it dry. Over lubing is a big cause of hassles for beginners.

Good luck and may the Force be with you,

Tom