These are the 10 Basic Steps for Reloading Handgun & Rifle Cartridges
Getting into reloading can feel overwhelming at first. Yet, a small commitment of time and research will have you quickly reaping the benefits of reloaded ammo.
Tip: A reloading manual from the same manufacturer of the bullets you use will take you step by step through the entire process. Having an additional manual on your bench allows you to cross reference load data.
1. Inspect and clean cases. Wipe dirt and grime away from each case. Inspect each case for deformities and splits. Defective cases should be thrown away. To remove carbon buildup and oxidization, use a sonic cleaner. To clean and polish brass, use a tumbler.
2. Lubricate cases to prevent them from getting stuck in the sizing die (not necessary with carbide/titanium nitrate dies for straight-wall cases).
3. Install the shell holder and adjust sizing die on your press.
4. Insert case and resize/decap/expand the mouth. Mouth expansion requires a separate die to be installed for reloading pistol cartridges.
5. If needed, trim case to specified length. After being fired, cases can lengthen beyond safe limits. Use calipers or a case gauge to check length.
6. Trimmed cases need to be chambered and deburred to allow the bullet to seat easily and uniformly. Clean primer pocket if needed.
7. Prime case with proper primer size and manufacturer as specified in the reloading manual.
8. Weigh the correct powder charge and pour into the case with a powder funnel. Consult your reloading manual for data on powder type. Double check that you’re using the correct powder and proper load for your bullet weight and cartridge.
9. Thread the seater die into the press and adjust for proper seating depth. Reference your reloading manual for adjusting and setting proper seating
10. Go shoot! Keep detailed records of how cartridges perform. Check for signs of pressure and accuracy before increasing powder charge. Safe pressure limits combined with consistent accuracy is what you should be looking for. Once found, these details will be stored so you can later reproduce the exact load. This is known as a pet load.
