Thread: 22lr Resizing/Hollow Pointing Tool

Originally Posted by oraki

So it's not too left field then. As I said, I don't reload, and don't have any real ambition to do so, therefore don't have any idea of the tools involved, but thought as a simple method to "hollow point" and resize, could be an option.
It's just figuring out the tooling required to achieve what's in my mind. I don't even know if it's possible without machining something up. Some of you skilled people out there would have a better idea if it's feasible.
If so, I'd be keen to purchase....

@oraki - Google search for Lee Hand Press in New Zealand. It's a pretty good option and for $150 or so will allow you to all the hollow pointing of .22 ammo with this type of die you need. Basically the Hand Press is a really good option for pistol type rounds and smaller cases as I understand it but it needs a bit more horsepower than you can do with your hands for anything bigger. Quick easy and simple - if you think of the hand primer setup but upsize it a bit... From the sounds of the forces for hollow pointing, you could knock out a good few packets of .22LR in an hour or so watching TV.

Originally Posted by No.3

@oraki - Google search for Lee Hand Press in New Zealand. It's a pretty good option and for $150 or so will allow you to all the hollow pointing of .22 ammo with this type of die you need. Basically the Hand Press is a really good option for pistol type rounds and smaller cases as I understand it but it needs a bit more horsepower than you can do with your hands for anything bigger. Quick easy and simple - if you think of the hand primer setup but upsize it a bit... From the sounds of the forces for hollow pointing, you could knock out a good few packets of .22LR in an hour or so watching TV.

I use a Lee Handpress at the range for all my rifle calibres up to 30 cal. FL sizing of 30cals requires a bit of effort and I'd not like to have to do 100 of quickly. Technique helps. Seated, put one press arm against your thigh and use two hands on other arm to close the press and drive the brass into the die. Properly lubed brass is essential. Mirror polished neck sizing button, if you use it, really helps when drawing the button out of the neck. Of course, if you're neck sizing it's a doddle. If I'm planning on needing a lot of reloads at the range I'll pre- prepare brass to take. So it will be sized, length gauged and primed on bench press ready to load powder and projectile. Not often I do it this way these days as, for me, doing long incremental load tests is A. too costly, B. of dubious value. And I no longer travel an hour each way to a covered range suitable for doing range side reloading.

I personally would not bother too much with say 9mm or 45ACP, on the Lee - the brass is very short and unless you have very nimble, dexterous fingers. Bit easier with longer cases like 44-40 and 357mag. My preference tho would be for an older Lyman 310 Tong Tool - if you can find the right die set. Much more nimble.

Anyway, highly recommend the Lee Hand Press although I see current retail asking price for a new one at DM is $219.95 and more elsewhere.