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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.[&:]

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 .

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

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.

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.