Starting in reloading - initial purchase

[Andy T]

I am thinking of starting to reload for precision rifle in .223 caliber. I have picked the following items for my "initial" purchase. Am I missing anything? Any other suggestions?

Here is the list:
Lee Precision Kit
Bullet Puller
Reloading Manual
Lee Precision .223 dies
RCBS Hand priming tool
Lyman deburring tool
Hornady primer pocket reamer

 

[insight3b]

Re: Starting in reloading - initial purchase

If you are only loading for a bolt gun this is perfect

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/420765/lee-classic-loader-223-remington

Everything you listed should have you covered but you will need a good caliper if you don't already have one.

 

[turbo54]

Re: Starting in reloading - initial purchase

Also, the deburring tool you've listed is a 45º, which doesn't work as nicely as the "VLD" type:

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_s...ld+deburring+tool&sprefix=vld+de,sporting,412

You'll need some provision for cleaning cases. Steelwool works for small runs/batches, but get's old really fast.

Definitely need a caliper. The dial caliper from Harbor Freight for $10 is more than sufficient.

If you're planning on reloading military brass, you'll need a primer pocket swager for removing the crimp.

 

[George63]

Re: Starting in reloading - initial purchase

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Andy T</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am thinking of starting to reload for precision rifle in .223 caliber. I have picked the following items for my "initial" purchase. Am I missing anything? Any other suggestions?

Here is the list:
Lee Precision Kit

If you like this I would upgrade to the classic cast press in the breech lock version - the challenger has a linkage part that I have broke about 5 times - I could ship you the other assorted kit items (most unused) for 20$

Bullet Puller
Reloading Manual
Lee Precision .223 dies

If precision (not bulk) 223 is what you are looking to produce do yourself a favor and start with at least forester dies

RCBS Hand priming tool

no real need for this the lee press is actually pretty good for priming



Lyman deburring tool
Hornady primer pocket reamer

basic versions of both of these are with the lee kit

when ready to upgrade you will want to use something motorized for those tasks </div></div>
powder, projectiles, primers, loading tray (for 223 a 38/357 tray the ammo comes in works fine)

lube if you want to use other than the lee wax lube

 

[Temp9]

Re: Starting in reloading - initial purchase

What are you gonna use to clean your cases?

Also, I would get a collet bullet puller instead of the inertial hammer type. The inertial pullers are a pain in the ass if you have to pull more than one cartridge.

 

[SporterII]

Re: Starting in reloading - initial purchase

I am a new loader and have found the Speer book to be the most helpful so far.

 

[gunnut223]

Re: Starting in reloading - initial purchase

1 reloading manual is good, but a library of manuals is a lot better. Dont forget to have extra brass around.

 

[Andy T]

Re: Starting in reloading - initial purchase

Thanks for the info so far. I was basing my purchases on Mail Call Mondays, and just haven't gotten to the part where he cleans brass for the tumbler/media, etc..
My purpose is to reload for my "precision" rifle. (700 LTR in .223 with 1/9 twist). Other rifles or .308 Win caliber may be added later.