So You Want to Reload?|TGC Podcast|Ep 089

Published on April 3, 2020
Duration: 68:02

This episode of The Gun Collective Podcast features Gavin Gear of Ultimate Reloader discussing the fundamentals of reloading ammunition. The discussion covers the primary motivations for reloading, including cost savings, customization, and preparedness. It details the different types of reloading presses (single-stage, turret, progressive) and their respective advantages. The importance of component selection, essential tools, and rigorous adherence to safety protocols and load data is emphasized for beginners.

Quick Summary

Reloading ammunition offers benefits like cost savings, customization for specific performance goals, and preparedness. Key equipment includes single-stage, turret, or progressive presses, along with dies, powder measures, scales, and safety gear. Always consult reliable load data from multiple sources and prioritize safety by meticulously measuring powder and understanding pressure signs.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction and Sponsors
  2. 01:59Why Reload? Requested Topic
  3. 02:21Guest Introduction: Gavin Gear
  4. 03:03Current Events: COVID-19 Impact
  5. 04:33Reloading Preparedness
  6. 05:56Core Reasons for Reloading
  7. 06:32Fun and Ballistics Lab
  8. 07:31Getting What You Want: Accuracy
  9. 09:14Subsonic Reloading Examples
  10. 10:26Saving Money Reloading
  11. 12:08Reloading Press Spectrum
  12. 14:50Single-Stage Press Explained
  13. 16:28Turret Press Explained
  14. 18:09Progressive Press Explained
  15. 19:04Auto-Indexing vs. Manual Indexing
  16. 21:01Tool Heads and Bushings
  17. 23:23Hornady Lock-N-Load AP vs. Dillon XL 650
  18. 25:35Auto Drives and Commercial Machines
  19. 26:25What is an Auto Drive?
  20. 29:14Mark 7 Reloading Systems
  21. 32:26Exciting Times in Reloading
  22. 33:25Deciding on Your Press Type
  23. 33:38Recommended First-Time Setups
  24. 35:01Budget-Friendly vs. Adventurous Setups
  25. 36:24Resources: Ultimate Reloader
  26. 37:23Expanding on Turret Presses
  27. 40:01Personal Reloading Journeys
  28. 42:04What You Really Need to Reload
  29. 42:19Three Essentials: Equipment, Components, Knowledge
  30. 43:40Component Sourcing Challenges
  31. 44:43Equipment and Tools
  32. 44:51Component Details: Bullets, Primers, Powder
  33. 45:48Powder Burn Rate Explained
  34. 46:46Creative Case Cleaning
  35. 47:17Studying the Reloading Process
  36. 47:20Pistol Reloading Steps
  37. 47:48Rifle Reloading Steps
  38. 48:48Equipment, Components, Skills, Knowledge
  39. 48:51Load Data: Books vs. Reality
  40. 49:54Cover Your Ass (CYA) in Load Data
  41. 50:07Importance of Checking Load Data
  42. 50:52Bullet Seating Depth Criticality
  43. 52:09Software like QuickLOAD
  44. 53:34Audience Questions Begin
  45. 53:38Question: Magna-porting 329 PD
  46. 54:56Question: .45 ACP Primer Size
  47. 55:37Question: .223 vs. 5.56 Primers
  48. 56:36Question: Best First-Time Setup
  49. 57:44.224 Valkyrie Reloading Discussion
  50. 58:10Question: Pressure Trace by RSI
  51. 58:36Question: Recycling .45 ACP Cases
  52. 59:31Question: .44 Mag Reload Issue
  53. 60:07Question: Swaging Projectiles
  54. 60:46Question: 50 Fat Mac Reloading
  55. 61:10Comment: Progressive for First Press
  56. 62:07Gavin's Press Collection
  57. 62:32Winding Down and Final Questions
  58. 62:40Question: Reloading Beyond Published Data
  59. 63:03Question: Valkyrie vs. 6.5 Creedmoor
  60. 64:17High-Speed Camera Collaboration Idea
  61. 65:09Where to Find Gavin Gear
  62. 66:56Wrap-up and Sponsor Mentions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons people choose to reload ammunition?

People reload ammunition primarily for enjoyment, treating it like a ballistics laboratory. Other key reasons include achieving specific performance goals through customization, saving money on ammunition costs, and enhancing preparedness by ensuring a supply of ammunition.

What are the different types of reloading presses and who are they best suited for?

Single-stage presses are simple and precise, ideal for beginners or precision rifle reloading. Turret presses offer more versatility with multiple die stations. Progressive presses are for high-volume production, completing a cartridge with each handle pull, suitable for competitive shooters or those loading large quantities.

What are the essential components and tools needed to start reloading?

To start reloading, you'll need a reloading press, dies specific to your caliber, a powder measure, a powder scale, a priming tool, and safety glasses. Essential components include cases, primers, powder, and bullets. A case tumbler for cleaning brass is also highly recommended.

How important is load data when reloading, and where can I find reliable sources?

Load data is critically important for safety and accuracy. Always consult reputable sources like manufacturer websites (e.g., Hodgdon) or reloading manuals. It's advisable to cross-reference data from multiple sources to ensure accuracy and avoid dangerous overloads.

What is the difference between auto-indexing and manual-indexing progressive presses?

Auto-indexing progressive presses automatically rotate the shell plate after each stroke, streamlining the process. Manual-indexing presses require the user to manually rotate the shell plate, offering more control but requiring more attention to avoid errors like double charging.

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