Ammunition reloading, often called handloading, is the process of assembling firearm cartridges by hand. This practice is popular among target shooters, hunters, and hobbyists for several reasons. It allows for greater precision, can significantly reduce the cost per round, and ensures a steady supply of ammunition when store shelves are empty.
To begin reloading, you need a combination of consumable components and durable equipment. While the initial setup requires an investment, the long-term savings and the ability to customize your ammunition make it a rewarding endeavor. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about reloading supplies.
The Four Essential Components of Ammunition
Every round of ammunition consists of four primary parts. When you reload, you are essentially cleaning and reusing one part while replacing the other three. Understanding these components is the first step in gathering your supplies.
1. Brass Cases
The brass case is the container that holds all other components together. Unlike the other parts, the case is reusable. After a round is fired, the brass can be collected, cleaned, and resized to be used again. Over time, brass can wear out or crack, so it must be inspected carefully before every use.
2. Primers
The primer is a small metal cup located at the base of the brass case. When the firing pin hits the primer, it creates a small spark that ignites the gunpowder. Primers come in different sizes, such as small pistol, large pistol, small rifle, and large rifle. It is vital to use the specific size called for in your reloading manual.
3. Gunpowder
Modern reloading uses smokeless powder, which is a propellant that burns rapidly to create pressure. This pressure pushes the bullet out of the barrel. Gunpowder comes in various burn rates and shapes, such as flakes, pellets, or cylinders. You must use the exact type and weight of powder specified for your specific caliber and bullet weight.
4. Bullets (Projectiles)
The bullet is the part of the cartridge that actually travels down the barrel toward the target. Bullets are available in different weights (measured in grains), shapes, and materials, such as lead, copper-plated, or full metal jacket (FMJ). The choice of bullet depends on whether you are target shooting, hunting, or practicing.
Essential Reloading Equipment
Once you have the components, you need the tools to put them together. The following equipment forms the core of a reloading bench.
The Reloading Press
The press is the heart of the reloading process. It is a heavy-duty tool used to provide the leverage needed to resize brass and seat bullets. There are three main types of presses:
- Single-Stage Press: Holds one die at a time. It is the simplest and most accurate option, making it ideal for beginners.
- Turret Press: Holds multiple dies in a rotating head. This allows you to switch between steps more quickly without removing the dies.
- Progressive Press: Performs multiple steps with every pull of the handle. These are used by high-volume shooters who need to produce hundreds of rounds per hour.
Reloading Dies
Dies are steel tools that screw into the press. Each caliber requires its own set of dies. Generally, a set includes a sizing die (which pushes the brass back to its original dimensions and removes the old primer) and a seating die (which pushes the new bullet into the case).
Powder Scale and Measure
Safety in reloading depends on using the exact amount of gunpowder. A powder scale (either manual or digital) is used to weigh the powder in grains. A powder measure is a tool that dispenses a consistent volume of powder to speed up the process, but you should always verify the weight with your scale.
Calipers
Precision is key in reloading. Calipers are used to measure the length of the brass case and the overall length of the finished cartridge. If a round is too long, it may not fit in the firearm; if it is too short, it can create dangerous pressure levels.
Case Preparation Tools
Before you can put a new round together, the used brass must be prepared. This ensures the ammunition functions reliably and safely.
Case Tumbler: Used brass is often dirty or tarnished. A tumbler uses abrasive media (like crushed walnut shells or corn cobs) to polish the brass until it is clean and shiny. This makes it easier to inspect for cracks or defects.
Case Trimmer: When a round is fired, the brass stretches slightly. After several uses, the case may become too long. A trimmer is used to shave off a tiny amount of metal to bring the case back to the correct specifications.
Deburring and Chamfering Tools: After trimming, the edges of the brass can be sharp or irregular. These small hand tools smooth the inside and outside of the case mouth, making it easier to seat the new bullet.
Safety Guidelines for Reloading
Reloading is a safe hobby as long as you follow strict procedures. Because you are working with flammable powders and primers, attention to detail is mandatory.
- Always Use a Reloading Manual: Never guess the amount of powder to use. Only use data from reputable manuals published by bullet or powder manufacturers.
- Wear Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses. Primers are designed to explode under impact, and while rare, they can detonate during the seating process.
- No Distractions: Do not reload while watching television or engaging in conversation. A double charge of powder (putting two doses in one case) can cause a firearm to explode.
- Keep a Clean Workspace: Only have one type of powder on your bench at a time to avoid mixing them up. Label everything clearly.
Steps to Reload a Cartridge
While the process can vary slightly depending on the equipment, the basic steps for reloading a metallic cartridge are generally the same:
- Inspect and Clean: Check brass for damage and clean it in a tumbler.
- Resize and Deprime: Run the brass through the sizing die to restore its shape and pop out the spent primer.
- Expand the Case Mouth: (Mainly for pistol rounds) Slightly flare the opening so the bullet fits in easily.
- Prime: Insert a new primer into the base of the case using a priming tool or the press.
- Charge: Pour the measured amount of gunpowder into the case.
- Seat the Bullet: Use the seating die to press the bullet into the case to the correct depth.
- Final Inspection: Check the finished round for any visible issues and verify the length with calipers.
Where to Buy Reloading Supplies
Reloading supplies can be found at local sporting goods stores, gun shops, and through various online retailers. Buying in bulk is often the best way to save money, especially for heavy items like bullets or hazardous items like primers and powder, which may require a special shipping fee.
When starting out, many people choose to buy a “reloading kit.” These kits usually include the press, scale, and basic tools in one package. You will still need to buy the caliber-specific dies and the consumable components (brass, powder, primers, and bullets) separately.
Conclusion
Reloading supplies allow you to take control of your shooting experience by creating ammunition that is consistent, accurate, and cost-effective. By investing in quality equipment and following established safety protocols, you can enjoy a productive and rewarding hobby. Always remember that the most important tool on your bench is your reloading manual.
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