Reloading

[LastManStanding]

Ok,
So I wanted to know if reloading is really much cheaper than buying cheap range ammo.

Also, is there a website or article I can read on how to get started? I mostly fire .40 S&W and I understand that that is a pretty high pressure cartridge so most newbies to reloading dont like to reload it. I was thinking about buying a 10mm for reloading purposes (and coolness factor) as well but I have no clue how to even get started.

I am familiar with the basic equipment but I am looking more for a class or online article or even a detailed reply so I can tell if I'm just wasting my time or if its really worth it to get into reloading.

[J.P.]

I used to handload/reload but since I only shoot 9mm these days,it just doesn't pay to do it.
Not when Academy has 1000rd for $85

[mikeyinokc]

While reloading can save some money, it depends on several variables. I think (at least for me) it's more about finding that one load that works the best out of my gun(s). It's also a good way to extend the hobby, and is a good way to while away some time in the evenings.

There are several good books around that lay out the process and guidelines. I would recommend getting several reloading manuals to come up with a mild starting load for any cartridge you are looking at. It is not complicated, but do pay attention and be safe, safe, safe.

[bfoster]

Last Man Standing,

Most pistols chambered for this cartridge don't have fully supported chambers. That is to say the cartridge isn't fully surrounded by the chamber in the head area. This is done, in most instances, to ensure reliable feeding of ammunition.

Depending on the amount of chamber support removed by the manufacturer and the pressure developed by the particular load, 40 S&W cases often develop a characteristic deformation upon being fired. Consumer grade reloading equipment is not always able to remove this deformation. This can lead to problems with cartridges feeding and, in rare instances, catastrophic failure of cartridges- the so called kaboom wherein a pistol is destroyed. (The phenomena isn't soley confined to Glock pistols, it's been observed in many brands of 40 S&W chambered pistols, and in a few instances, in other high pressure chamberings).

Therefore, very careful inspection of 40 S&W cases is mandatory, both before and after the resizing operation.

Yes, in the late 1990's the ammunition industry, led by Federal Cartridge, did add more brass to the interior of 40 S&W cases. This has minimized the problem.

Nevertheless, I'd advise you to consider "cutting your teeth" as a handgun cartridge reloader on a lower pressure cartridge- the 45 ACP is easy to load for and with some types of loads there are savings to be had.

Loading wadcutters for the 38 Special produces a big saving.

The economics of handloading-

Again this depends on a number of factors. As J.P. stated, in the 9X19 ammo is reasonable priced. There you have to be a bullet caster with a source of cheap/free lead to realize significant savings. Buying powder, primers and brass (if needed) in "commecial" quantity also helps. If you don't put a dollar figure on your time it is possible to load 9X19 for $25 to 40 per 1000 once you've amortized your equipment, provided that you've purchased your supplies "right".

Bob

[DrBaker]

If you don't put a dollar figure on your time it is possible to load 9X19 for $25 to 40 per 1000 once you've amortized your equipment, provided that you've purchased your supplies "right".

Bob

$25 per 1000 for 9mm would be incredible. If somebody needs some practice with reloading, I'll gladly give you $25 per 1000 to keep you going. :wink2:

[bfoster]

DrBaker,

The key to $25/k 9X19 ammunition is purchasing powder and primers in commercial quantity plus free/cheap lead. Probably not advisable if you don't live well out of town and have some acerage on which to situate a proper magazine...

Primers run under a penny a pop when you buy a pallet.

Powder is in the $7 to $10 range per pound if you purchase 5 100# drums of non-canister grade.

And you have to be a bullet caster with a steady source of good lead alloy.

While I've done pressure testing and powder "curves" for commercial operations, I've never had the inclination to enter the remanufactured ammunition business. The competition for contracts like police practice ammunition is positively cut throat.

Bob

[DrBaker]

I'll stick to my Blazer at Academy for $3.86 per box. It's quick and easy.