New to reloading

For those who like to roll their own.

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GreenMan0352
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New to reloading

#1

Post by GreenMan0352 »

Good afternoon I am new to reloading and I have been wanting to learn for a while now. I figure theres no time like the present and I wanted to start with .357 magnum/38 special any tips would be much appreciated.


I was thinking of ordering this but what hammer do I need? Also is this any good? I just need someone to point me in the right direction so I don't buy uneeded equipment and books.

Thanks!

https://www.midwayusa.com/product/70213 ... 357-magnum
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Beiruty
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Re: New to reloading

#2

Post by Beiruty »

Those are good but very slow for pistol cartridges. If you shoot a lot, consider immediately the Lee Classic Turret.
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GreenMan0352
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Re: New to reloading

#3

Post by GreenMan0352 »

What all would I need with the turret?
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Beiruty
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Re: New to reloading

#4

Post by Beiruty »

1) LEE Classic Turret
2) LEE Drum Powder Measure
3) LEE 357-38 dies set
4) Haing Couple LEE Turrets does not hurt
5) Get the GemPro 250 (used, it comes with Lifetime warranty)
6) Bullet Puller Hammer Style would work fine
7) Lee hand Ergo hand Primer with its shell holders set AND/OR LEE Safety Primer (mounted on the LEE Classic Turret)
8) Optional 357-38 case gauge

What else do you need?
Beiruty,
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GreenMan0352
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Re: New to reloading

#5

Post by GreenMan0352 »

I'll probably start with the el cheapo grande way first if the LEE Classic can do the job. I want to get started this weekend rather than save and order everything. So as far as the kit it says, "hammer not included" is that just a primer hammer?
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Beiruty
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Re: New to reloading

#6

Post by Beiruty »

GreenMan0352 wrote:I'll probably start with the el cheapo grande way first if the LEE Classic can do the job. I want to get started this weekend rather than save and order everything. So as far as the kit it says, "hammer not included" is that just a primer hammer?
Hammer is a small hammer or mallet. Check this video
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Beiruty
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Re: New to reloading

#7

Post by Beiruty »

Beiruty,
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Beiruty
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Re: New to reloading

#8

Post by Beiruty »

Another option (I have one and this is my first press)
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GreenMan0352
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Re: New to reloading

#9

Post by GreenMan0352 »

Much appreciated friend!

flechero
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Re: New to reloading

#10

Post by flechero »

Go slow at first- double check every step and triple check powder charges until you are used to the process. Do you have a manual or two? Be sure to check at least 2 sources and preferably 3, when deciding how much powder to use... and weigh it if possible vs scooping it with a dipper. If you dip, stay at lower target charges because it's a pretty inexact method.

Several manual's data are available online (Hogdon [plus Winchester/IMR], Accurate, Alliant,etc)

LTUME1978
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Re: New to reloading

#11

Post by LTUME1978 »

Greenman,

I started with that very same kit in 1974 reloading for the 357. I used a plastic mallet and that worked fine (still have it around here somewhere as well as the original Lee kit). I was in college and money was tight so I started with that kit and loaded a lot of ammo on it. It is much slower than a press but made good ammo. I used the scoop for measuring powder as I did not have a scale and stayed on the medium to lower end of the charge rate. The loads shot very well that were made on with that kit. Get some case lube as the cases will need to be lubed to be resized.

FWIW, I used Unique powder and 158 grain lead semi-wadcutter bullets. Have fun!
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