My first reloading kit

ahenry34

Well-Known Member
Hello everyone, I am going down the reloading rabbit hole

I have gotten a new riffle made deliberately that has next to no support for factory ammunition ( 22 creedmoor )

Over the last 6 months I have done my research and have decided to go with the following products for phase one

Phase one is the loading of 100+ rounds of virgin brass

I am not space constraint but would prefer to reload in my study therefore I am trying to be as efficient with space as possible. Also I want to avoid buying anything cheap “just to do”

My shopping basket is as follows

1. Redding t7 press
2. Redding type S match dies (sizing and seating)
3. Inline fabrication ultra mount (accessory)
4. Hornady auto charge pro (powder dispenser)
5. Derraco PCPS (priming)

For phase two I will ofcourse expand to tumbling, annealing and case prep but for now I want to get everything I need to build 1-150 rounds get shooting

appreciate any feedback or recommendations
 

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Looks a nice set up. Only things I would be considering are calipers and a case trimmer.

Item 5 looks posh but since the press has a priming system already do you really need it?
 
Looks a nice set up. Only things I would be considering are calipers and a case trimmer.

Item 5 looks posh but since the press has a priming system already do you really need it?

Yes arguably it’s not needed but seems like press top priming is always a compromise in some way. I’ve thought about the Forrester coax bench top primer too which would save a few quid but can I be assured or consistent primer seating depth with it?

Should have mentioned calipers/comparators already in stock from my day job.

Do we think case trimmer is needed on virgin brass? If so which trimmer would you recommend? I was going to go for the Franklin prep center for phase two
 
Yes arguably it’s not needed but seems like press top priming is always a compromise in some way. I’ve thought about the Forrester coax bench top primer too which would save a few quid but can I be assured or consistent primer seating depth with it?

Should have mentioned calipers/comparators already in stock from my day job.

Do we think case trimmer is needed on virgin brass? If so which trimmer would you recommend? I was going to go for the Franklin prep center for phase two
If you want every last bit of accuracy then no point scrimping...its your money 👍

I have only just started homeloading myself and with a bit more basic kit then you. Also I have only used once fired brass so cant comment on the virgin brass (sure someone will be along in a bit who can). I have a Hornady Case Prep trimmer which seems to do the job.

Good luck ... its a rabbit hole and a half :)
 
I would take advantage of 2nd hand press, 2nd hand beam scales, and 2nd had powder thrower all been on SD very recently. Keep looking you could save allot of money and have some decent kit.
And vernier calipers, case trimmer and reloading book/s. 👍

Just to add.
Do you think a single stage press would be better for starters ? I've never used anything but and loaded quite a few thousand rounds.
 
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You definitely need a single stage press and consider a hand primer.

In fact, to start with, I would buy a Redding or RCBS kit of your choice and refine or add to the equipment as as you go.

T
 
Last edited:
You definitely need a single stage press and consider a hand primer.

In fact, to start with, I would buy a Redding or RCBS kit of your choice and refine or add to the equipment as as you go.

T
I really can’t understand why anyone would be bothered priming any other way than with a good hand primer

A1
 
Recommendation for “good” please

This is what I use , prime a batch of 50 in a couple of mins and put into drawer when finished . Flawless .

A1
 
I have experience of Lee and RCBS hand priming tools. The RCBS is far better ergonomically and practically with no need for loads of separate bases.
Dies well I have a mixture of Lee, Lyman and Wilson to name those without going to look I can remember. I have made sub half MOA (ie consistently in real world use (not just “ideal” conditions)). With all of them.
Powder measure wise I started with Lee balance scales later bought some easier to use ones (lyman iirc) and built an electronic trickler to feed them. Lad bought a RCBS electronic measure that made life easier still.
Honestly though it is method and consistency that seems to be the key. That and I never load white any distractions.
Welcome to the rabbit hole (just remember you don’t need to go all the way in).
 
I've been looking for a .22 Creedmoor for a while, they are really selling out in the US, are you looking to shoot around 70 grain bullets for long range? What rifle did you get?

As others commented for reloading I would consider used main equipment (press, powder scale / thrower, hand primer). I would buy new dies and a new case guage. I'm shocked to see the cost of brass and components here in the UK.

I would recommend trying a number of bullets to find what seems to work best in your rifle as well as to develop your load, powder weight and bullet seating depth. If you have friends that reload, don't be shy about learning the process and what may give you the best result.

Everyone I talk to says barrel life is going to be a real issue but I still want to get my hands on a .22 Creedmoor. I met the guys from Horizon Firearms that developed the round, they are selling very nice rifles but they are a little expensive. I am looking for a Ruger Gen II American Predator rifle which are priced at around $650 but are just not available.

I've been reloading for 40 years, I've taught a lot of people but once you find a great load stick with it.

 
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