what's the best kit to get into reloading

[Rightwinger]

Add to that the intangible fee you can't put on paper of satisfaction doing it yourself and knowing that it's "good". Either alone or the few times I have reloaded with someone, it's quality time working in detail with something you like to do. No dollars assigned, you'll know the value added after you shoot your first batch of reloads though.

[McAllyn]

I'm spending alot on ammo, 9MM and 45ACP...and considering reloading. Anyone have an idea of what it costs per round for reload ammo for 9mm vs. 45acp? I'm trying to figure out how many rounds I would have to shoot to get back my initial investment. For those wondering...yes I am a CPA.

After loading 6000 rounds of 9MM versus WWB I have paid for my Dillon reloader. And that doesn't count the .40 and .38TJ I reload as well. Basically, everything saved now is profit.

Mac

EDIT: My 9MM reloads are .12-.14 each. WWB is .23 each. Doesn't seem like much, but when you reload 1k at a time, it adds up quick.

Edited June 22, 2010 by McAllyn
added numbers

[Independent_shooter]

Handloading Cost Calculator

Try that for a start. I haven't done the math on mine for a while, but I think I recall saving 4-5 bucks on 50 rounds of 9mm vs WWB. More uncommon calibers add up faster.

Thanks! I think I may have found my new hobby, which will likely turn into an addicition

[Independent_shooter]

After loading 6000 rounds of 9MM versus WWB I have paid for my Dillon reloader. And that doesn't count the .40 and .38TJ I reload as well. Basically, everything saved now is profit.

Mac

EDIT: My 9MM reloads are .12-.14 each. WWB is .23 each. Doesn't seem like much, but when you reload 1k at a time, it adds up quick.

Thanks McAllyn, that's good information.

[Sidinman]

Looking at the turret presses, one with, one with the auto index. The one with is some what cheaper, what dose the auto index do and is it a needed option?

[56FordGuy]

Looking at the turret presses, one with, one with the auto index. The one with is some what cheaper, what dose the auto index do and is it a needed option?

The auto index automatically rotates the turret with each pull of the handle, vs having to rotate the turret assembly by hand.

It may be a little faster, but unless you're using a powder thrower I don't think you'll see a big difference.

[Sidinman]

thanx

[Guest bcbulldog78]

I'm spending alot on ammo, 9MM and 45ACP...and considering reloading. Anyone have an idea of what it costs per round for reload ammo for 9mm vs. 45acp? I'm trying to figure out how many rounds I would have to shoot to get back my initial investment. For those wondering...yes I am a CPA.

There are a lot of factors that go into figuring your reloading costs. Buying in bulk is one definite way to lower your cost per round. Every component manufacturer I have ever read about or dealt with offers quantity discounts. Some of the discounts are not worth fooling with because they are not practical for the individual shooter. Another factor in your cost is whether you are shooting jacketed bullets or lead bullets. Even with the increases in lead prices you can get your cost per round into the .10 - .18 per round ball park. As far as how fast you will recoup your costs - that depends squarely on you and how much you shoot. If you are shooting 150 - 300 rounds per month then it of course will take much longer to recoup the initial cost than someone who shoots 600-800 rounds per month. Keep in mind that as with most things in this world, you get what you pay for so if you go cheap - there is a better than fair chance that you will want to upgrade fairly quickly.

Dillon is expensive for a reason but you can often sell used dillon equipment for nearly what you paid for it brand new because of dillons lifetime warranty - it doesn't matter if you are the 1st owner or the 101st. As someone mentioned before I jumped in and went progressive first. Not advisable for all, but it worked for me because I had several good friends that reload that were able to help get me started with good habits.