Thread: Keeping it Simple for New Handloaders

Greetings All,
There have been a number of new or prospective handloaders asking for tips on starting out and much helpful advice has been forthcoming. There have also been a number of threads dealing with more advanced handloading techniques. It crossed my mind that some newbies reading the more advanced posts may have formed the opinion that the techniques in these posts are essential if you expect to hit a deer standing side on at 200 metres. This is not the case. The more advanced handloading techniques are relevant for those shooting at longer range either deer or targets. A considerable expenditure is needed for the kit and in my opinion, at least the newbie is better served by keeping it simple.

In my mind the kit needed starting out is as follows:
1. Something to deprime the case and resize the case so it will fit in the chamber and grip the projectile. This can be as simple as a Lee Loader or a basic press and full length sizing die.
2. Something to measure cases and to trim them if needed and chamfer them inside and out. If you are only loading for one calibre the simple Lee hand tool is ideal as no measuring is needed. A caliper for measuring and a case trimmer is better for the rest of us.
3. Some way of re priming the case. The Lee loader will do this as will the press or you might prefer a hand primer like I do.
4. A handloading manual. Data for most cartridges is available on line from the likes of Hodgdon, Nosler and others. Check any loads you see on the Forums against these before using. A printed manual will have a step by step guide which will be most helpful.
5. Something to measure powder. Scoops like the Lee ones can be used but a set of scales will be needed soon.
6. Something to seat the projectile. The Lee loader and basic press with a seating die will also do this. You can set them using a factory cartridge if you do not have a caliper but you will need one of these soon enough.
7. Last but probably the most important a mentor. This is an experienced handloader, grey hair preferred, to take you through the steps slowly and keep you pointed in the right direction.

You might like to read through my "Notes for New and Newish Handloaders from an Old Fudd" posted a while back on this Forum.
Happy Loading,
Grandpamac.