I've been slowly piecing together my reloading kit for the past couple of years and finally loaded my first rounds last night (15 rounds of SMK 177 BTHP, 43gr RL15, OAL 2.81) I hope to get out Monday and see how they shoot.
Everything has been pretty straight forward but I have a few general practice questions.
1) If you're reloading every couple weeks is it safe/wise to leave powder in the hopper or should it go back in the bottle after every session. (My bench is in my garage.)
2) Right now I'm loading new brass but I'll be starting with spent brass soon. I had a guy tell be that he tumbles AFTER they've been reloaded. Anyone else do this?
3) My aim is to reload for accuracy more than quantity. I have a RCBS Competition powder dispenser. Once I verify that I'm throwing the proper amount should I still check every load?
4) I do not currently have a case trimmer. Anyone have a favorite to suggest? I don't think I want to spend the $$ for one of the powered ones right now.
Any other tips for a noob are appreciated. Right now I'm only loading .223 and .308.
Thanks!
Everything has been pretty straight forward but I have a few general practice questions.
1) If you're reloading every couple weeks is it safe/wise to leave powder in the hopper or should it go back in the bottle after every session. (My bench is in my garage.)
2) Right now I'm loading new brass but I'll be starting with spent brass soon. I had a guy tell be that he tumbles AFTER they've been reloaded. Anyone else do this?
3) My aim is to reload for accuracy more than quantity. I have a RCBS Competition powder dispenser. Once I verify that I'm throwing the proper amount should I still check every load?
4) I do not currently have a case trimmer. Anyone have a favorite to suggest? I don't think I want to spend the $$ for one of the powered ones right now.
Any other tips for a noob are appreciated. Right now I'm only loading .223 and .308.
Thanks!