Want to Re-Load, need input...

netranger6

netranger6

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Minuteman
Aug 15, 2009
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Vicoria, Texas
#1
Guys, I want to reload .308, and need a direction for equipment/manuals, etc.. I have a GAP, and am tired of shooting 30 dollar + boxes of shelf match ammo. I would like to squeeze out my baby's full potential. This means, I probably need to figure out the proper OAL, and start loading. So, what do I get?

BTW, at some stage, I would like to reload .223/5.56 and maybe some .40/.45.
 
#2
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

A single stage press is a good start. I started on my father's RCBS press. I then purchased a Lyman turret starter kit and did'nt like the runout. The RCBS RC kit gives you what you need to get started sans a caliper and cartridge length sizer.
I like the Redding T7 for a single stage and it is a good starter press as you do not need to re-set initial dies. Plus it is a solid design. I don't think it is available in a kit.

Powder metering is huge and but with a RCBS 505/510 or equivalent beam scale you are rolling.... just slower. I would'nt just run a powder throw w/o repeatidly measuring/recording/adjusting the results against your goals.

I consider a chronograph a necessary tool when experimenting with loads. You can use full field results but short range results and MV is a more efficient start. W/o speed your flying blind to dope the round and meet max range goals. If you want to make a good 100yard load, you dont need it.

I consider a o-give comparitor a necessary tool when experimenting with different bullets (you have a good rifle) and pushing into the lands. You can use fired casings and the bullet to measure jump or OAL vs. a guage. Don't start kissing the lands, stick with reasonable COAL till you get comfortable.

I started with the "ABCs of Reloading" and a "Hornady Handbook of Cartidge Reloading" both are older then I am but great reading. I'd say better then the late model Lyman and RCBS publications. The theory and method hasn't changed. The old stuff has outdated bullets and powders and the new stuff is conservative in max load. THIS does not matter in practice; start low and work up. The internets is great for base info on certain methods/product if you spend the time looking and filter through. Just don't copy anyon'es "totally awesome" pet loads w/o working up. Everyone's rifle is different.

IMO to start:
single stage press (and of course FL resize and seating dies)
Dig or dial caliper for brass and loaded COAL.
beam scale and weight cal kit for sanity
Case trimmer (Forster or Lyman works good)
powder trickler
neck chamfer tool
funnel
neck brush
Hand primer
chronograph

A Progressive press is more apt to handgun loads but start with one animal. You won't regret having a single-stage press on hand (and the experience) if you upgrade.

Even with FL sizing all, new brass (and different brass) behaves differently then once fired. Log and separate any new brass. Remember that different brands of brass have different internal volumes and hardness relating to safety and pressure vs. powder charge. In the process watch the lube in the neck from resizing, I recommend a wash or atleast brush the interior neck clean.

The best tool is consistancy & pen and paper to record what your doing and what happened. Change one thing at a time. Again, I would'nt put to much initial thought in touching the lands till you were comfortable in the rest. For a tactical rifle loading to mag length and it isn't anything to cry about vs rifle implimentation. Remember that the case volume affects pressure and bullet seating is also a big factor.

Thats my general overview, HTH.
 
#4
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

Its not a difficult task. Attention to detail and research is the key. You have the majority of the problem solved-you have a quality stick.308's aren't that finicky. Plenty of choices in components.

Keep it simple.Buy quality equipment-RCBS or Redding. You get out what you put in. Build quality ammo gets you quality results.

Good Luck.
 
#6
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

I agree with Boomholzer, when I first started I bought a Dillon 550 setup. While it was nice for progressive loading it was not the best thing for trying to make precision ammo on. I ended up selling it and now have a Lee single stage which for me is easier to work with. But if you are interested in 223 and pistol ammo the progressive might be the way to go.
 
#7
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

If I may suggest a manual. The Lyman's Centerfire Handloading Manual has more usable information than any 2 others. They aren't trying to sell you powder or bullets.
 
#8
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

So, it's a good assumption that the once fired brass I currently have (Black Hills/Federal Gold), are good for a few reloads? At where do I start with OAL? Should the bullet be kissing/touching/or just off the lands? BTW, should have plenty of room, as it's an AICS.
 
#9
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

The Hornady OAL gauge will tell you exactly how long your chamber is. Once you know that, then you can start playing with the OAL. Depending on the rifle, and maker, the OAL may vary significantly. My Remy has miles to go to the chamber. Whereas my GAP 300 WM has a shorter chamber. So, there is no telling...

Also, if you are aiming for the best accuracy and who doesn't, even different brand of brass can change make a difference.
 
#10
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Victor N TN</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If I may suggest a manual. The Lyman's Centerfire Handloading Manual has more usable information than any 2 others. They aren't trying to sell you powder or bullets. </div></div> +1, Without a doubt the first place to start!
 
#13
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

Get two books.

Read them both 2-3 times before you buy any reloading equipment.

The methods described on this site are pretty advanced. The manuals will generally describe simpler, more basic methods. Basic and simple is a good place to start.

Don't get a ridiculously cheap press, don't get a complicated progressive either. Choose a solid single stage press to start with. If you upgrade to a progressive later you will keep the single stage as it has many uses.

Lee and RCBS dies are good enough for starting out and are reasonably priced. Don't worry about complex bushing sizer and micrometer seating dies just yet.

I have found that the only Lyman product worth buying is their book.

 
#15
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Scrambler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Press is a press (single stage) Go LEE! </div></div>

I hate to tell you this. But you are sadly mistaken. All presses are NOT created equal. And if you think they are, you are meerly showing your inexperience with different equipment.
 
#16
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

dies... I am thinking competition dies and shell holder for .308? Any suggestions on the two? Cash is not an object, just want to be set up good from the start.
 
#17
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

Just pitching in my 2 cents here, there has been a LOT of good information imparted, and I agree with aspects of all of it. First of all, get a few good books on the subject and read them from cover to cover. That being said, trying to reload from a book is like trying to rebuild an engine from a book. Pictures and diagrams are great, but after you've read your fill and have an excellent knowledge of the overall process, find someone who is a knowledgeable actual reloader, and sit sidesaddle with them for a bit....reloading is as much about "Feel" as it is about actual instructions, and that's learned much more easily by having someone show you as opposed to from a book.
As far as equipment is concerned, as stated above, a good single-stage is absolutely the best way to start in my opinion, I would suggest brands, but I don't want to start an argument. Secondly, DO NOT buy cheap-if it becomes an interest, or, God forbid, a passion, you're going to end up replacing it all anyway.
Stepping away from the soapbox now,

Regards,

Mike
 
#18
Re: Want to Re-Load, need input...

David Tubb made introductory Reloading Videos and they are
most helpful
With any mechanical skills at all, U would be proficient in no time.
 
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