Reloading Equipment???

[kfbagt]

In case you didn't know, I'm new to shooting. I've been doing some research on reloading but can't figure out what's the best bargain or what I should go with. I'd like to hear what some of you guys do and what you suggest. I will be looking to reload .40 S&W for now. Also, if one of you guys feels sorry for me and would like to make me a good deal on some used equipment I may be interested.

Thanks and I eagerly await your replies..........Paul

[Gary Stevens]

The best overall deal for now and in the future is the Dillon 550. It is a progressive press (one bullet for each pull of the handle) and has the capability to change calibers very quickly if you wish. They come with an optional case feeder which while not necessary is a nice option.

You can check them out at www.dillonprecision.com

Oh by the way, they have a lifetime warranty, no questions asked.

[Wheelgunner]

I would have to agree with Gary. I had a Lee before my 650 and if you get something other than a Dillon you will come to regret it. There are always deals on ebay, gunbroker, and other forums like ar15.com.

[S Lance]

I have to agree with the above. While I'm by no means a volume reloader compared to many on this forum, I've reloaded a fair amount of ammo on a Dillon 550. It is the press that I started out with. It's not too hard for beginners yet it can produce a goodly volume of ammo.

[Hairy78]

All of the previous posts have had excellent suggestions in them. Dillon is a great company, and their warranty is the best in the business. Plus, if you decide to get into high volume loading, all of your die sets are interchangeable between the different machines. I would start with a 550 or 650, and be planning bench space for a 1050.;)

[Gunworks]

Dillon you wont be sorry

[robertm]

While I wish I had the cash to invest in a Dillon it was not an option for me.

I ended up with a Lee 1000 for 40 S&W and 9mm I can reload both with the same shell plate adapter and change out is very quick. If you intend to change between more than these then change over will slow.

Lees are not a lifetime warranty but replacement parts are inexpensive.
primer feeder is a bit problematic at best but its usable with care.

If you are very mechanically inclined I think it possible to have good success with a Lee 1000 I can reload 300 rounds in about an hour as long as I don't run into a problem. Its very important to get a good smooth rhythm and learn the places to watch for problems.

While I cant say I would buy a Lee 1000 if I had more resources. I will say for the money it works and can work well, you just need to be ready to deal with the problems.

If you get a Lee don't say I didn't warn you :) When and if I get the money I am sure I will replace the Lee press but at this time I have already broke even on getting the press. So am not completely unhappy with it.

[Gunworks]

Many have been down that road before and most regret there decision.
Wish you the best of luck with it.

By the way all you have to do is change locator pins on the Dillon and you can swap 9 & 40.

[MRB]

Dillon for me also. I've had a Square Deal in 45ACP for about 15 years, and it's been a great machine. Money was an issue then (when ain't it), and it is a more economical machine if you are only going to reload one caliber. My next press will be a 550. I have used Dillon's warranty, and it really is as hassle free as they claim.

[robertm]

Many have been down that road before and most regret there decision.
Wish you the best of luck with it.

By the way all you have to do is change locator pins on the Dillon and you can swap 9 & 40.

Sense he asked about bargains. And Lee presses looks like bargains. I wanted to be sure he knew about the Lee press. They can work but are problematic. Am not unhappy with it, but would I like to have better sure. I wanted to be sure he was informed if he went bargain hunting. There are some good reviews of the Lee most the good reviews tend to over look just how time consuming they can be if you run into problems. I myself tend to have a few nights a week to myself as my wife works evenings so I have extra time to deal with the press if need be. For warned is always a good thing.

[kfbagt]

Thanks for all of the good info guys. My research was pointing me at the Dillon or at the RCBS product line. I didn't hear anyone mention that brand so I am assuming that its high cost is not worth it. Looks like the Dillon is a little more affordable. Thanks for all of the advice. Now I just need to figure out what/where to get the supplies I need to actually make a bullet. I know that picking up brass will become important but where do you guys buy your supplies?

One more question..... If done right about what will the final cost per round be to shoot .40 S&W ?? (not including the press, just the supplies assuming you are buying the casings)

[bigdaddy]

Dillon

Buy once, Cry Once. You will eventually end up with one anyway.:D

[MRB]

You missed a primo chance Sunday, there were about half a billion rounds of 40 brass left on the range. I even managed to scarf up some 45 that Paul missed! You might want to check Chuck at Shooters Connection(.com). I understand he has good prices on bullets, and he shoots at the club, so you can save on shipping. I also like dealing with Midway USA and Natchez Shooters Supply on the web, but I'm not sure on their component pricing-I usually buy primers & powder at Border's. Have no idea on per round cost. Of course, you can shoot factory and police up your brass until you get enough saved up to reload. Hope this helps.

[Gunworks]

The more you buy the cheaper it is as long as you dont figure in your time.

Dont buy 100 primers buy 5,000.
Buy 4 pounds of powder.

Powder & Primers

Sam Burton at the Skeet club, top of the hill, most Sundays or Powder Valley.

Bullets, Chuck at Shooters Connection but if he dosent have any try Montana Gold.

[Hairy78]

We get our powder off of Sam, IM me or email me for his phone number.