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What reloading accessories make life easier

U

Ultraman550

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Dec 8, 2011
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Heres a list of what I have so far to start reloading for the first time.

Dillion Super Swage 600
Redding dies - 9mm, .223, .308
Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit

I've read that the scale is horrible and the powder measure seems to have a problem with extruded powders. I figure I'll just buy another powder measure and use it in conjuction with Hornady's.

I also see the Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure Handgun Rotor and Metering Assembly as a necessary item.

I've read that the Lee perfect powder measure works well for extruded powders so if anybody can disagree or have any different opinions Im all ears.

Is there any other add-ons/accessories you guys can recommend to make life easier so I'm not caught in one of those moments where I need to order something to make a certain component work or work better?
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Since you are reloading at least two rifle calibers, a trimmer is essential. I have the Hornady and it works well for me. You should also get a powder trickler; I bought a Redding since it's nice and heavy.

I don't have any experience with Hornady scales or Powder measures, but extruded powders are what they are. They don't flow nicely. That's where your trickler comes into play; set your powder drop a couple of tenths light and then trickle to the precise load weight.

That said, when I load for my AR15 (<span style="font-style: italic">yes, I admit it; I own one of those mean, nasty, horrible guns, and a bucket of 30 rnd magazines. Diane, are you reading this?</span>) I use A2230 because it meters nicely and I don't want to trickle for 1,000 rounds.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Niles Coyote</div><div class="ubbcode-body">lube </div></div>

This is the answer to a lot of questions
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Ultra what do you want to accomplish, maximum accuracy, blasting ammo, cost savings(which there ain't), I reload for accuracy, the 3 tools I can't live without are 1 Giraud Trimmer, 2 Forster Co-Ax Press, and 3 Prometheus Gen2 powder scale, none of these are cheap, all of them are fast and/or accurate beyond the normal consumer grade stuff, decide what your goal is then choose the tools to best help you achieve them.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

These are the few things I don't think I couldn't live without:
rcbs case prep center
rcbs chargemaster
a good dial caliper
foster bullet seating die
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

I have the Hornady measurer and have great results with Varget, I am consistantly .1gr+/- max

A case prep center is very handy.
Trimmer
And a calipers
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

You have the Dillon primer pocket swager, I assume you're planning to use some fired mil brass. If you need to deprime crimped pocket cases, pickup the inexpensive Lee decap die with a couple extra pins. I've had good luck with Dillon case lube applied by spraying it in a gallon ziplock about half full of clean cases, shake it around, dump out the cases, let dry then go for it resizing. You'll need a good media tumbler to clean dirty brass 1st round and remove lube 2nd round of tumbling after resizing. Dampen the media with a cap full of alcohol to control dust. A media separator from Dillon or RCBS is mighty handy. Forster benchrest seater dies are a good value if you don't have the Redding micrometer seaters already. Ball powder like TAC or similar is good for both 223 and 308, meters well, burning speed similar to 4895 = good for gas guns. I've have better luck with TAC with lighter bullets in both 223 and 308. I like the Dillon stainless case gauges to check brass for proper resizing for my gas guns.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 427Cobra</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Ultra what do you want to accomplish, maximum accuracy, blasting ammo, cost savings(which there ain't), I reload for accuracy, the 3 tools I can't live without are 1 Giraud Trimmer, 2 Forster Co-Ax Press, and 3 Prometheus Gen2 powder scale, none of these are cheap, all of them are fast and/or accurate beyond the normal consumer grade stuff, decide what your goal is then choose the tools to best help you achieve them. </div></div>

the only thing i'd add to this list is the Giraud annealer as well but it's only a matter of time before the Gen2 haters hit this thread.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Loading blocks, powder funnels. I like to use the Redding universal decapper, it adds an additional step to the process since you are not resizing at the same time. But your dies will keep cleaner. I decap, clean the brass, lube, then size, etc...
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

I'd buy the caliper first, you won't load without it.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Gen 2 Prometheus
Giraud Trimmer
Forster Co-Ax
Good Dies (Forster or Redding)
RCBS Hand Primer

I use the above for everything, and my Dillon 550b has been used exactly once in the 2 years that I've owned it. I can reload fast enough using the tools above, and the ammo is very accurate. While the Prometheus isn't 100% necessary, it sure is a nice thing to have. I was running two Chargemasters, and the Prometheus runs as fast as those two machines, but the accuracy of the throws are damn near perfect.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Jesus Christmas, It's amazing how the original thought process is "ooooh, I'm going to reload and save a bunch of money" and then you buy everything only to say "holy shit, I just spent a small fortune and I'm not even done yet"

I just bought these last night
1. Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure Handgun Rotor and Metering Assembly
2. Case holders (for each caliber)

427Cobra. I'm gunning for precision ammo (.223 & .308) and why not try it in 9mm and .45 I guess. In due time I'll add a progressive press but I need to learn the basics first. What I gather from you guys is a 1) Trimmer 2) Chamfer and deburring tool (possibly the RCBS or Lyman case prep center? 3)LUBE and more LUBE 4) Powder trickler

Im almost positive the Lock-N-Load press kit comes with funnels and reloading blocks but I'll check to be certain.

Great info guys, thank you thank you!!
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Giraud Trimmer, then K&M Arbor Press and Wilson Dies so you can load to test at the range. Also a bunch of test tubes with caps to have pre-measured powder weights ready to go at the range.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

I have the RCBS chargemaster and prep station which all help to speed up the reload process and I love them, an just got a Redding Turret 6 for christmas, love it.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Also forgot make sure you get a scale powder tray that has a funnel built in RCBS makes these helps pouring the powder in the brass afeter weighed
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Ultraman,
The fun is just starting!
I don't like giving advice as to what to buy, but as far as a trimmer goes, buy electric. When I got back into reloading, I had 4k pieces of .223 brass to trim. I had bought a RCBS trimmer. I did 50, jumped in my pickup, headed to gun shop, bought the drill adapter, did 50 more, shut it down, ordered their electric unit, added a 3way cutter soon after.
Today I'd buy the Giraud.
The case prep center is must also.
For the money, I'd never be without a chargemaster again.
Get double shell holders also, one for the priming tool.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

I see you already have the Dillon, but the CH4D swage tool is MUCH faster--and when it comes to the drudgery of swaging etc faster is definitely better. I can do 100 rounds in less than 3 minutes when I set my mind to it. It takes like 1 or 2 inches of press travel compared full stroke with other tools and the work is being done ON TOP of the press where you have plenty room to work. Also built like a tank in the USA and relatively cheap.
http://www.ch4d.com/?com=catalog&view=product&alias=419000

If going for accuracy with extruded powders, I'd say weigh every charge. If you use something like TAC, 2230, WCC844, H335 etc then the measure will give you no trouble. I don't know about the Lee measure-maybe it will throw within 1/10 gr with extruded powders, but I know my RCBS and Dillon measures won't. They are close enough (and better than factory ammo) if I'm loading plinking ammo but not if I'm doing accuracy stuff.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

mtrmn, weigh every powder on something like the RCBS Chargemaster and similar scales instead of relying on a powder measure/powder trickler which is better for Progressive presses and knocking out a bunch of ammo like 9mm right? I'm definitely getting a better scale so I'm just checking here. And this place looks great.
http://www.ch4d.com
What trimmer do you use for accuracy?
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

I've been looking at the Wilson Stainless Micrometer Trimmer with Stand, RCBS, Hornady and Redding trimmers but now theres this http://www.ch4d.com/catalog/trimmers/301000 and I'm torn as whether I should just nut up and buy an electric trimmer from one of the above companies, not forgetting, Lyman, Lee, Dillon etc... Any thoughts as to whats not going to be insanely expensive like $300+. I thought about the Wilson first because I didn't want to compromise quality over something less expensive thats does not produce as accurate of a round but RCBS seems to be the only trimmer you can actually add an electrical device to and the reviews on the RCBS don't seem too bad.

Case prep is narrowed down to Lyman and RCBS unless you guys recommend something different. Hornady needs a lesson in consumer pricing so they're out.

Powder Scale is between RCBS and Hornady unless you guys recommend something different as well. The Prometheus 2 is insane, I'd love to have it but it's a long ass wait for one right?
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Hey Ultra. I'll confirm for you. The Hornady LNL kit does come with the trickler and a powder funnel.

I have had good luck with the kit. I did buy a few things to supplement. As you already know the scale is what it is. Just a low end scale to serve the purpose. I ended up going with the RCBS 5-0-5 beam scale. The powder measure does get hung up with some extruded powders but it has never been the end of the world for me. I usually end up using the trickler and hand measure every load anyways. Very time consuming and I have often considered the Chargemaster and some day will probably take the plunge but right now I'm using most of my available funds on components.

I agree with the above though also on calipers and some measuring aids for headspace, oal etc. I also went with the little Hornady case trimmer device that has slots for three attachments as well as their case trimmer.

Just those basics are good to get you started and you'll learn very soon after what things will help and what you can live without. Good luck.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

I just ordered a Rockchucker Supreme kit since it looks as if they are being discontinued. Then a Wilson trimmer, Dillon tumbler and separator. Added dies, some components and miscellaneous shit and I have about $1300 in it so far. I ended spending more than I wanted but I don't have to worry about not finding the ammo I want.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Just wait until you hear about stainless steel media tumbling, if you haven't already. I'm completely sold and hooked on it now and forever.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: NoFail</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just wait until you hear about stainless steel media tumbling, if you haven't already. I'm completely sold and hooked on it now and forever. </div></div>

I heard about it and was really wanting that setup but it is out of stock everywhere.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

RCBS Chargemaster, Giraud Case Trimmer and a Dillon RL 2000 Tumbler
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

I love the chargemaster and prep station. I would hate to have to go back to the old way. They both save a lot of time.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Ultraman550</div><div class="ubbcode-body">mtrmn, weigh every powder on something like the RCBS Chargemaster and similar scales instead of relying on a powder measure/powder trickler which is better for Progressive presses and knocking out a bunch of ammo like 9mm right? I'm definitely getting a better scale so I'm just checking here. And this place looks great.
http://www.ch4d.com
What trimmer do you use for accuracy?
</div></div>

I'm sorry I wasn't more clear. Extruded powders like IMR4350 are like little sticks, and in most powder measures some of the little sticks will get hung up and they will be cut/crushed when the measure is activated. The shape of the powder also leads to less than consistent measuring which I've had vary as much as 4/10's of a grain. Therefore I always weigh each charge when going for accuracy with extruded powders. I usually use a Lee dipper which gets the charge close and then trickle up to the exact charge weight. I use an RCBS 1010 scale.

If I'm using ball or flake powders, I use the powder measure with good results. Most of my rifle ammo is loaded with ball powder like TAC, 2230, H335 etc. On pistol ammo, I just run it all through my Dillon 550 and stop every now and then to check a charge weight. Long as my charge is OK I keep pulling the handle-no need for super accuracy here. I can turn out a lot of pistol ammo in a hurry-rifle, not so much.

You asked about my trimmer-I still use my old bench-mounted RCBS trimmer with the crank handle removed so I can chuck my cordless drill on the shaft. Po' folks got po' ways.

I must add that I am NOT a "sniper" (marksman) by any stretch of the imagination. I do not take all the extra pains required to produce super-accurate loads, especially in brass prep. If I can break MOA I'm extremely happy. I normally load for accuracy until I get the best load for whatever particular gun I'm working with, then I switch to volume mode and load up a supply of the ammo I finally settle on. I don't shoot matches or long range--my range is limited to 200 yds. Most of my shooting is with ARs.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Ok guys, thank you, all of you for your help. This is what I have ordered so far and only some small items are on back order but only for a week. I also have primers and powder for each caliber but I definitely need more powder. I forgot about a tumbler but I have that figured out and will be purchasing that next. I just wanted to get the main components first. Any more suggestions? I was thinking about the Hornady annealing tool but for $5 I can make exactly what Midway is selling for $50.

1. Dillion Super Swage 600
2. Redding dies - 9mm, .223, .308
3. Hornady Lock-N-Load Classic Kit
4. Hornady Lock-N-Load Powder Measure Handgun Rotor and Metering Assembly
5. Hornady Shell holder - 9mm, 45, .308, .223
6. RCBS Chargemaster Powder/Scale combo
7. Lyman Case Prep center
8. L.E. Wilson Trimmer Case Holder - .223, .308
9. L.E. Wilson micrometer case trimmer stainless steel case trimming kit
10. L.E. Wilson case trimmer power adapter
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Agree with the Giraud trimmer, not sold on stainless tumbling.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gunsnjeeps</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Agree with the Giraud trimmer, not sold on stainless tumbling. </div></div>
I read though that with the Giraud trimmer it trims from the shoulder only. Not that I have any idea what in the hell the difference is but it was something that was mentioned as a downfall, otherwise it's obviously a ridiculously nice trimmer. Now how about annealing with this big bitch....

http://annealingmachines.com/how_to_anneal
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

The Forster trimmer has a neck turning attachment which is nice.

Chargemasters are reputed to shift their weights, so you will have to set it 2 or 3 tenths under where you want to be and trickle onto a beam scale. My wife bought me one for fathers day and I returned it because of this inaccuracy.

Does the Hornady kit include a hand primer? If not get one, I use a Lee, several seem to work great, though.

I use and love sizing wax. The Hornady one-shot spray lube is inexcusably horrid.

I have a tumbler, ultrasonic cleaner, and will buy stainless next.

O-rings for the dies works well.

Concentricity gauge is a must have, the sooner you get one the better.

As are the ogive and headspace comparator inserts. Hornady makes the c.o.a.l. tool and I bought a tap for the thread pitch so I can use my own fireformed brass.

Have fun, and use the forum.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Annealing is also a must have, get temp stick, don't guess.
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

Well so far I like your list, I've actually got a Giraud trimmer and I don't use it that much, having said that I like something faster than my Wilson. Don't get me wrong--I really like my Wilson, but it is a little tedious.

I actully use the Lee triming system a lot, with the cases held in one of their case holder attachments and that chucked up in a cordless drill. Actually getting the cutters adjusted for the right chamfer-debur-cut length is quite fiddly with the Giraud.
Two things that I will throw in that I really like that make the reloading 'life' a little easier to me are the Satern powder funnels, they are caliber specific which I like, and then the heavy duty loading blocks from Sinclair, I really like their stability and they just make things a little nicer IMO.
Another couple of things I'll throw in are the Sinclair primer pocket uniformers, I simply use them to clean and uniform the primer pockets at the same time. Also use the chamfer/debur tools chucked up in a cordless drill--makes quick work of things. I'm also in the minority around here, but I really prefer the RCBS universal hand primer, it has good feel and you don't need a bunch of different caseholders if you change parent cases--god forbid the Lee, which requires specific caseholders just for it. I'll never understand why so many folks like it. It's poor quality and fiddly with all the caseholders.

Good luck in getting going!
 
Re: What reloading accessories make life easier

"Is there any other add-ons/accessories you guys can recommend to make life easier so I'm not caught in one of those moments where I need to order something to make a certain component work or work better?"


Snipers Hide Reloading Forum!! Looks like you're set there
smile.gif
 
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