R&R | Does Reloading Save Money?

This guide details how to test propellant temperature sensitivity, a crucial factor for consistent long-range accuracy. It emphasizes using a reliable chronograph and testing ammunition across a wide temperature range, from cold to hot conditions. The process involves calculating the muzzle velocity change per degree Fahrenheit to understand how temperature fluctuations affect performance, enabling shooters to account for these variations in their ballistic solutions.

This video demonstrates the significant impact of primer choice on reloading results. By switching from Remington Gold primers to Federal 210 primers, the presenter observed a notable increase in average velocity and a decrease in standard deviation, even with identical other load components. The test highlights how primer selection can affect accuracy and point of impact.

This video from GUNBROS features an experienced speaker who argues that reloading ammunition is generally not cost-effective for most shooters, especially for common calibers like 9mm and .223 FMJ used for range shooting. He explains that mass production by companies like PMC, Magtech, and S&B offers unbeatable prices due to economies of scale. Reloading is presented as a viable option only for specialized needs such as wildcat cartridges or custom hunting rounds where precision and unique specifications are paramount.

This video demonstrates the process of testing a handloaded 10mm cartridge featuring a 165gr Sig V-Crown JHP bullet and 9.0 grains of Hodgdon Longshot powder. An experienced handloader uses a Caldwell chronograph to measure velocities and calculate muzzle energy from two different barrel lengths (3.78" Glock 29 and 5" 1911), providing objective ballistic data.

This video explores the complexities of high-pressure and hybrid ammunition, featuring insights from ammunition designer Jesse (Boondock Battle Station). It debunks the notion of 'easy plug-and-play' performance gains, highlighting manufacturing challenges, potential weapon system degradation, and the need for redesigned components. The discussion emphasizes that current commercial high-pressure loads offer modest velocity increases, and the true potential lies in future weapon system development for smaller platforms.

This video from Ballistics Lab provides an expert-level explanation of standard deviation in ammunition performance. The instructor demonstrates how lower standard deviation in handloaded ammunition leads to tighter groups and more consistent impacts at longer distances compared to factory loads. The content highlights the practical application of ballistic data for improving shooting accuracy.

This video provides a head-to-head accuracy test between the Ruger 10/22 and the Marlin Model 60, both chambered in .22 LR. The host, an experienced shooter, details the test methodology, including ammunition types and a consistent 25-yard range. The comparison highlights key features of each rifle, such as magazine capacity and aftermarket availability, concluding with a visual presentation of the shot groups.

This video details a comprehensive ballistics gel test for various .38 Special loads fired from a Smith & Wesson 642 snub-nose revolver. The expert instructor analyzes bullet expansion, penetration, and wound channels, offering critical insights into ammunition performance for self-defense. Key takeaways include the importance of bullet design for reliable expansion in short barrels and safety considerations for handloading .38 Special ammunition.

This guide details a head-to-head ballistic gel test comparing 9mm Luger +P and .40 S&W ammunition, as demonstrated by an experienced firearms reviewer. The test involved firing specific loads through denim barriers into gel blocks, measuring velocity and penetration, and analyzing recovered projectiles. The .40 S&W HST showed more dramatic expansion, while the 9mm +P achieved deeper penetration. The comparison highlights trade-offs between terminal performance, capacity, and recoil in compact firearms.

This video demonstrates the initial live fire of a .50 Beowulf AR-15 platform rifle, featuring a side-charging upper receiver and a Vortex red dot optic. The host, identified as a firearms enthusiast and content creator, showcases the loading process, firing, and the significant impact of the large caliber rounds on steel targets at an outdoor range. The demonstration highlights proficient firearm handling and range safety awareness.