Re: Need help knowing what equipment to get for reload
If you are on a budget, you cannot beat Lee equipment for performance and value.
http://www.leeprecision.com/
I would suggest (based on what I own) from LEE:
The Classic turret press. (It can also be set up as a progressive reloader for your 40 with the optional disc powder measure)
a carbide 4 die set for your 40 S&W
a deluxe 3 die set for the 223
a deluxe 3 die set for the 308
(note all Lee die sets come with the correct shell holder)
two extra 4 hole turret inserts
The Lee reloading book (excellent value and really covers the topic and tons of data)
Safety Glasses!!!!!!
a Redding, Lyman or RCBS powder scale (expensive but the best)
A case chamfering tool (I like Lyman's)
Get all the above from Midwayusa.com
a Redding, Lyman or RCBS powder measure (go on ebay)
Down the road, the Lee autodisc powder measure will speed up loading the 40.
The Lee autoprime tool fits on the press and avoids handling primers as well as speeding up the process.
Reloading is not rocket science, I've been doing it since 1956 and still have both eyes and all fingers. Read everything three times and if you have a buddy who is good at it, coaching helps.
I own or have owned probably every brand of reloading equipment.
I have no problem turning out excellent ammo with the Lee Turret and it is, in many ways, more user friendly than either my far more expensive RCBS and Redding presses.
Some folks here will tell you that you have to get a second mortgage to get good equipment. There is some truth to that if you are a 1000 yard benchrest shooter, but for most of us reloads that can equal or beat premium factory ammo are obtainable on a beer budget.
Good luck and stay in touch!