How hard is it to reload??
 

I would like to start reloading but was wondering how difficult it is to learn on your own. I have seen starter kits with everything a guy needs including manuals and texts but sounds a bit complicated. How long did it take most of you guys to learn to load properly??
Cheers

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

With a bit of common sense a person will be able to load safe functional ammunition very quickly.It takes much longer however to learn proper load development .Some reloaders never develop the skills to find the optimum load for their guns.

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

Hello...it doesn't take long at all. It isn't really complicated to get started. Many manuals have steps to take you through it. Also, do you know someone who reloads? Get together with them and watch, learn, and ask. It is a great hobby. Relieves stress, fills winter hours, and is just plain fun!

Good luck....go for it!
Clint

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

If you want to learn to reload, having an experienced reloader to help is extremely beneficial. Once you got the basics down you can wander out on your own.

I've been reloading for 40 years and I assure you that I'm still learning.

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

Ya once the learning stops I don't think handloading would be any fun. I would suggest investing in a manual, Hornady or Speer are good as they sell the equipment. I started with a Speer #13. Read it cover to cover, twice. Then if you do know someone who handloads ask if you can watch or do some hands on under thier supervision. I have had several fellow shooters come over and spend a day in my shop and they were ready to start out on thier own.
Handloading is like that game Risk (I believe) takes a few minutes to learn, a lifetime to master. But beware, like Contenders It is an addictive habit, er, I mean Hobby.

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

Norco,

Welcome to the club. I've been at it for a little over fifty years and am still in the learning stage. After a while the question comes up as to whether you reload to shoot, or shoot to reload. The new Lyman #49 manual has an excellent section for beginners. I suggest that you buy one and read it at least twice before spending a dime. It will answer many of your questions. It will also raise questions that you don't even know about at this time. That is where a site such as this comes in real handy. There is a good group of people here who will help in any way possible.. Good luck. God Bless.[&:]

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

BigBob .30-06 You got that right .

Reloading is easy to learn on your own ,but it would be much easier if you knew someone that could show you how the first time .

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

Reloading is easy you just follow the instructions to the letter. Absolutley no deviations. If you can't do this don't start.

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

While this is basically good advice do not take everything written in your manual to be fact.Do not assume that all loads listed in reloading manuals will be safe in your rifle.Do not assume that the most accurate loads listed in the manual will be the most accurate in your rifle.Do not assume that the overall lengths listed in the manuals will be the most accurate in your rifle.Most of all do not expect that your rifle will produce the velocities listed in the manuals.

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

Hi Norco,

Reloading is actually fairly easy....but intimidating when you first start. You can learn from only using a manual, (and you definitely should use a manual), but if can seem much simpler if you watch a knowledgeable reloader a time or two first. (Just make sure you use the manual...to develope your loads.)

Also I believe several of the manufacturers have video tapes available that explain and walk you through the process. Still to be used in conjunction with a manual(s).

The worst part is just getting over the "fear" of learning....or making a mistake. You need to pay attention...and be respectful...but it really is rather straight forward!

Good luck.

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

My advise from a newbie reloader as well.......well to rifle anyway.........been loading shotgun for years! Take your time. I reload shotgun to shoot clays. 100/week minimum. I wont shoot that many rifle in a month til spring. My rifle loading now is for varmits. Eventually for competition I hope! I load about 40-60 per hour on a single stage, not counting the brass cleaning and prep. It's alot of fun and I really enjoy it. I don't know if you save any money, you just shoot more in the long run!

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

It took me one day to handload my first round it will take me a life time to master it. Good luck.

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

I just started last year, and agree with all the above advice, get a good manual and read it, then follow what they tell you. If you have questions, recheck the manual, or find someone that reloads and ask them. If you have a good shop near you, they usually have someone there that is knowlegable about reloading(I went to one near me and although they sell almost everything you could want for reloading, no one that works there actually reloads, go figure). Anyway if you are careful, and follow directions it is very easy, and of course addicting.

In the winter I reload to shoot, once the weather gets better, I shoot to reload...

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

Glad to have a new reloader in the forum. Play SAFE!! Follow your manuals to the letter and buy as many as you can afford. Hunting or target shooting is only enhanced when using home-rolled ammo. ;)

RE: How hard is it to reload??
 

It's not that hard and i believe if i can do it anyone can. It's a great hobby and lots of fun to boot and especially satisfying when you find that magic load and harvest game with bullets you made yourself.
Lots of good advice already given and i really don't have much to add but i will say don't forget to wear those safety glasses. Also get ready for a reloading addiction, once you start it never ends.