complete newbie
I just inherited a RCBS JR2 . Now I know I need a scale but what else should I get to get started ? There as a 222 die that came with it but nothing else
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fun and rewarding hobby you're getting into - I just started back (after 30 yr delay)--press , scales, someway to insert primers , dies , ( I found all mine on ebay ) , most important-- BOOK and everyone has a different opinion on which one .. I only do 3 rifle calibers right now but I like to " crimp" I really call it a squeeze , lube pad , you can make a better and easier lube w/ lanolin and alcohol .. you can find all this on you tube . I would suggest you do that . remember this can be very dangerous so be deliberate and maintain concentration .. have fun
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dial calipers, case trimmer, a set of shell holders, the list can be endless
RR |
In addition to the items mentioned, I'd recommend a "reloader's eraser". One of those impact bullet pullers, or a bullet puller die. It will help fix rooky mistakes, which I still make on occasion.
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Here's a slightly modified version of my standard list of what I consider a minimal kit for reloading. I've copied and pasted this, then tried to consider your existing JR2. This list will get you loading, but recognize, by picking some of the cheaper gear available, you'll be wishing you had better gear within the first batch of ammo you produce. I'd pay a local kid to do my brass prep before I ever trim brass with a Lee case length gauge ever again - even when using a drill. Frankly, I hate loading on a single stage press even, with the exception of my highest precision loads.
Case Prep:
Reloading:
Miscellaneous tools:
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Funny Wingbone, after learning this reloading stuff 45 or so years ago, I still find use for my bullet puller on occasion as well. You surely don't have to be a rookie to screw up. I can attest to that with complete confidence.
As Ridge Runner said, this is a very long list as well as an expensive one for some people. Good reloading books should be number one on your list. Speer has some excellent manuals that not only give you the loads but also has some that have step by step instructional pages too. Start out with the basics: stable mounted press Good set of calipers, these should not be skimped on as they are one of your most important tools. Good scales, again not to be skimped one as you could lose body parts or your life if they are inaccurate. Case trimmer Prime/deprime tool Primer pocket cleaner Lube/lube pad Properly matched dies/seaters Properly matched cartridge holders You can get away without a powder dispenser but they are nice to have. As far as cleaning your brass, one can get by with just a brush and cleaning them out to start with but most of us usually get into some sort of cleaner system such as a good media vibrating cleaner. My advise for beginners and experts alike is to adhere to strict inventory controls and only load one cartridge type and powder at a time so you have no confusion ending up using the wrong powder in a cartridge which could result in injury or death. Always pay close attention to what you are doing at all times. Reloading is a very good way to get the most out of your rifle but it can get a little monotonous so it can get easy to lose focus. Take several breaks to clear your attention span. My little sister is probably the best long range shooter in our family and, like the rest of us, she was taught to reload before really getting into the shooting. Problem is, she has the attention span of a gnat on crack when it comes to long reloading sessions so I reload for her as well. Here eyes start to glaze over after about 30 rounds and her mind travels anywhere but where she is. |
and I forgot to mention---you will eventually need a chronograph -- I know, I Know-- my first bullet cost about $500, they get a little cheaper after that .. this hobby ain't to save money on ammo:sign0016:i just got back from shooting today .. tried 5 different recipes and i'm still not happy, so back to the drawing board .. it's almost like figuring out somebody's phone #---so many variables-- you gotta love it
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Johnl, you may also want to invest in a couple of good reloading manuals. I have 5 or 6 manuals that I use on a regular basis. I have found it helpful to buy the manuals published by companies that manufacture the bullet brands and/or powders you may be using. Lyman, Nosler, Sierra, Hornady and Lee all have decent manuals that I refer to often. Never hurts to compare details from one manual to another based on bullet type and weight. Also, Hodgdon's website is a great resource as well. Have fun reloading!
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Biggs300 brings up an excellent point. Whatever bullet/bullets you intend on loading up, you should use the same manufacturers manual. Bullets have different shapes between manufacturers which create different pressures and pressure spikes. You will end up having better results using the corresponding manuals. You can get away with using say a Speer manual for a Hornady bullet, providing they are the same in weight and base design, but you will honestly have better results using the manual for that bullet.
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As some one advised in 2013 red the sticky above.
:D Al |
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