Getting back into reloading

[Bilge]

I used to reload for my 9mm's years ago when I shot every Wednesday. It saved me a lot of money, especially when you consider the cost of shooting 100 rds per week sometimes more, and the hand loads where alot cleaner than most of the factory stuff.

Now I'm considering starting reloading for my rifle for the same reasons. I live near a rifle range now and I shoot quite often and I'm considering accuracy more than economy at this point. But, since it's been a long time and I don't have the equipment any more and I also realize loading those simple straight walled 9mm cases is a different animal than loading rifle cartriges I'm hoping someone might impart some their experience on what equipment I need and where best to buy it. Also, what different procedures will I have to learn? Back then I used dies that did not need case lube, are there such dies for rifle cartriges? What kinds of things will I have to look for as far as determining case life?

Thanks for any help!

Bilge

www.motleydeercamp.com

[NE Hunter]

You will need everything you had for the 9mm plus .... the dies for the rifle caliber, something to measure the case length as well as a case trimmer, and a way to lube the cses. No there aren't any carbide dies for the bottle neck cases. last but not least current manuals Lyman is a good one to start with. Read the section on how to reload rifle cases and you'll be fine.

[Bilge]

Thanks for your reply. Carbide, I couldn't remember. Shows ya how long it's been.

I'm thinking of getting another RCBS setup to start out with and if I'm not mistaken that comes with a reloading manual. Since I don't live anywhere near a place I can buy supplies, buying powder is going to be an expensive proposition because of the hazardous materials handling charge. So, for my .270 what would be a good powder to start out with? And what kind of bullets would you recommend I start with? I currently hunt with Remington Core-Lokt 130gr ammo if that gives you any idea as to what my starting point is. I'll probably be trying different powders and bullets after I get that equipment and manual in my hands but I'd like to get started somewhere.

Thanks for your help!

[NE Hunter]

If I remember correctly all you will need is a way to measure your case length that doesn't come with the kit. If you are using a bolt action or a single shot ( eith cases fired in your gun) the Lee collet die works well. I bought the deluxe set and it has both types of resizers ... full length and the neck sizer that way if I purchase once fired or new I can full lenght size them and then just use the neck sizer. Bullets .... I haven't had much luck getting 130 gr Nosler balistic tips to group yet ( in some tries it couldn't be called a gathering) I have had good luck with Sierra 140 gr gamekings and IMR 4064

[Bilge]

Thanks again!

I'm putting together my "wish list" of stuff that'll probably have to wait until after Christmas. I've got four kids that need stuff before this "kid" gets his toys...LOL!

[NE Hunter]

one of those kids must need a .270 for Christmas. Then you can argue that you'll need to reload to supply both guns with ammo (save money LOL)