I took the plunge.

[Drewski2324]

Well I finally took the plunge after years of talking about it. After doing a lot of research I settled on Lyman.





Only thing not pictured here is the rotary tumbler. The press is under these some where. It was even inspected by a very reputable source:



Here are some words of wisdom for newbies based on the stupid things I have already done:

1) It is un-wise to check to see if a cartridge was primed after you have already poured powder into it. Long story short, you will need a broom.

2) It is wise to put powder into the cartridge before you seat the bullet. Luckily I didn't have to find this one the hard way.

3) It is wise to lube your cases before forming them. Those little bastards are hard to get out of the die.

 

[Nicholas909]

Well congrats & welcome to the world of reloading.... Just remember to take your time. Theirs no reason to rush.

 

[Snake Charmer]

Congrats, Welcome to the world of custom ammo and better performance than you can buy across the counter. You can take this the the ultimate extreme with accuracy if you desire to do so. Lots of folks on the forum that would be willing to lend advice. I've been reloading since 1974 and I know others here that have that much or more experience so don't hesitate to ask. The only dumb question is the one you don't ask.

 

[rbduffer]

Congrats on the new hobby!
The good news is that you know that your fifth shot is the same as you're first four.
The bad news is that you can't blame the ammo when you pull it

 

[Drewski2324]

Thank you guys for the kind words. I do have one question for you all. When doing load development what system do you use to test different loads. For example I am working up a load for my .260 and I tried to do a ladder test at 200 yards. The problem is that I was not getting enough vertical dispersion to really nail down specific load. I was able to get a range of charges to go back and do the test again. Is there something better?

 

[BBH]

Thank you guys for the kind words. I do have one question for you all. When doing load development what system do you use to test different loads. For example I am working up a load for my .260 and I tried to do a ladder test at 200 yards. The problem is that I was not getting enough vertical dispersion to really nail down specific load. I was able to get a range of charges to go back and do the test again. Is there something better?

Take a look at Dan Newberry's optimal charge weight load development for a good explanation of ladder testing

optimalchargeweight.embarqspace.com


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[Drewski2324]

Take a look at Dan Newberry's optimal charge weight load development for a good explanation of ladder testing

optimalchargeweight.embarqspace.com


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Thank you BHH, I am reading up on his concept now.

 

[xjon]

Almost 1.5 months reloading...hope you're enjoying it. Would like to hear any updates you have...including more "words of wisdom". Found that funny.

 

[WaterDawg]

I admire anyone who's mastered reloading or even taken on the challenge. Congrats! I'm too A.D.D and would end up like Elmer Fudd with the gun barrel all splintered and peeled back like a banana. I was inspected by Jesus and found woefully deficient.

 

[BakoHNTR]

Please keep up updated on your progress and experiences. I am planning on making the leap very soon myself (can't afford these high dollar OTC rounds much longer). Thanks!


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[Drewski2324]

Almost 1.5 months reloading...hope you're enjoying it. Would like to hear any updates you have...including more "words of wisdom". Found that funny.

Unfortunately the last couple weeks work has been crazy but I just got a Gen 6 auto dispenser from Lyman as well to try and keep my learning cuve to a minimum!

 

[Drewski2324]

Please keep up updated on your progress and experiences. I am planning on making the leap very soon myself (can't afford these high dollar OTC rounds much longer). Thanks!


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I really enjoy the process. I find it therapeutic. I spent way more than I had to on these gadgets but I do feel in the long run I will have a better quality load and save money as well.

 

[Drewski2324]

I admire anyone who's mastered reloading or even taken on the challenge. Congrats! I'm too A.D.D and would end up like Elmer Fudd with the gun barrel all splintered and peeled back like a banana. I was inspected by Jesus and found woefully deficient.

I totally understand where you are coming from. I feel like it actually helps me focus! The thought of turning my gun into an Elemr Fudd special add to the focus too!

 

[Drewski2324]

Does anyone have an effective method of fine tuning OAL without the special tools?

 

[xjon]

Does anyone have an effective method of fine tuning OAL without the special tools?

OAL using special tools? I.E. OAL gauge?
Are you talking about measuring where the bullet meets the lands, or actual seating of the bullet?
Either way you need a caliper gauge minimum for tools (which I see you have).

To find where the bullet meets the lands you can use the sharpie method. Then just dial down the die to try out different seating lengths.

The problem with the above method is each bullet varies in length. Measuring ogive to base will vary and even more so with the tips. Thats why some use OAL gauges attached onto their calipers.

 

[Drewski2324]

OAL using special tools? I.E. OAL gauge?
Are you talking about measuring where the bullet meets the lands, or actual seating of the bullet?
Either way you need a caliper gauge minimum for tools (which I see you have).

To find where the bullet meets the lands you can use the sharpie method. Then just dial down the die to try out different seating lengths.

The problem with the above method is each bullet varies in length. Measuring ogive to base will vary and even more so with the tips. Thats why some use OAL gauges attached onto their calipers.

Ya I guess I was speaking more on where the bullet touches the lands. For the sharpie method, how does that work?

 

[xjon]

Since no one chiming in...just google oal sharpie method. Youll get the idea after reading a few posts by people. Also youtube helpful.

Sorry I cant tell you how to do it since I dont do it. I was hoping someone whos done it would've replied by now.

 

[Drewski2324]

Since no one chiming in...just google oal sharpie method. Youll get the idea after reading a few posts by people. Also youtube helpful.

Sorry I cant tell you how to do it since I dont do it. I was hoping someone whos done it would've replied by now.

Thanks Xjon. Will do.