Posted on 02/03/2013 10:34:59 AM PST by BuckeyeTexan
With ammo being difficult to find lately and selling for much higher prices when it is available, I decided to purchase some reloaded ammo (9mm) and also consider reloading my own. I have no experience doing either. So naturally, I want to ask fellow FReepers for some advice about reloaded ammo.
If your advice is "Don't even think about, idiot." don't hesitate to say so.
Ping.
Look at the ammo. It should look good almost as good as new.
If the loader listed the load data check it out and see how it agrees with a loading manual. If he doesn’t list the load, I would be inclined to reject it.
If you know who loaded it, just how much do you trust hims?
Learning to load is not very difficult but you do need to be careful.
1st, remember that Glock has different cut rifling and clearly state to owners not to use reloaded ammo. The consensus, however, is that as long as you just reload jacketed bullets, you’ll be OK.
Properly cleaning and inspecting the cases before loading, then paying close attention to weights, length and crimp are the key. Done right, reloads are as good and in some cases better than factory.
Reloading your own lets you adjust powder charge and bullet weight to suit you.
Heck yes invest in reloading equipt and go for it. There are several books available to teach you the dos and don’ts.
ABCs of Reloading is pretty darn good.
As I type this, I am cleaning brass to reload later this afternoon.
Once fired brass is ok, just make sure you check after each firing for damage to case such as separation at base.
Ask your local gun shop if you need help.
Buy a good book detailing reloading, once again your local gun shop can be a great help.
Make friends with someone who reloads.
First off, I don’t ever buy ammo someone I don’t know and trust has reloaded. It’s too risky.
A good beginners kit is sold by RCBS. It comes with a nice single stage press that I’ve been using for more than 10 years. A scale, powder throw, and case trimmer is also included. Get the loading manual published by the bullet manufacturer you intend to use. You will end up with multiple manuals. That’s ok.
A vibratory case cleaner is worth every nickel, too.
Start doing straight wall pistol cases. The calibers you have are examples of that. Break the task into manageable chunks the first few times.
For example:
Inspect once fired cases for defects. This goes for factory new cases, too.
Then clean the cases overnight in your tumbler.
Then decap and resize a few hundred. Take a break.
Most importantly, when you’re reloading that’s ALL you’re doing. Make sure you can concentrate completely. Remember, you’re basically manufacturing small explosive devices that YOU are going to set off in the palm of YOUR hand. LOL. You want to make sure it’s done properly.
Have fun. Be safe.
I do not reload but it is not that hard.
I am guessing that 9mm an .380 would use the same dies.
Wideners is a good reloading source
Good to know that about the warranty. Hadn’t even considered it.
Thread for you, dear.
I do not personally know the guy who loaded it. I believe he owns or manages a gun range in Decatur, TX. A trusted friend knows him and buys from him regularly. I will request the load data. Thanks!
Norm Lenhart. He knows EVERYTHING about reloading.
That is rule one, two and Three. You are putting your palm, or a few inches from your cheek and face to someone else's attention span and skill.
I have seen this happen a few times with Glocks.
Just load jacked bullets and avoid +P loadings as the manufacture recommends. All will be well.
I started here first, but I will go there next. :)
/johnny
I'd also say "as a general rule don't buy reloads from individuals". I own a former Finish Navy Carcano carbine in 7.35 mm Italian. The ONLY source of ammo in that caliber is reloads - usually from other collectors. It hasn't blown up yet and it's a 73 year old product of Italian wartime industry.
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