Reloading vs Factory Ammo: Stop wasting money!

Reloading and purchasing ammo are completely different in terms of the cost to the user. In this video, we investigate which is cheaper.
My recommended reloading setup for $895: backfire.tv/re...

[@nathanhileman3848]

Reloading holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my late grandpap would sit in his chair, overseeing my reloading while telling an untold number of hunting stories that I just loved. I can't even tell you what I'd pay to get to relive a couple hours of reloading with him.

[@RichardEnglander]

Aw that's awesome! I would love to have have memories like that. People live on in our memories

[@robpolaris7272]

I have a similar memory with the smell of Hoppe’s solvent on my single shot 410 at 14.

[@cosmicbilly]

Sounds like some good memories! Thank you for sharing that

[@laladoodieincarnate]

As for primers, maybe learn how to make murcury fulminate or use crushed match heads and strikerboard.

[@Stephen-uz8dm]

I hope to give share such moments with my own children and grandchildren one day God willing. You can't replace that kind of magic.

[@ihatenewyork]

Reloading is literally therapy.

[@mjohnsongreen]

So many people don’t understand the therapy that comes from reloading.

[@mikegiordano9445]

I totally agree. I do not charge my time. The last thing I want when reloading is hurry up deadlines. I love doing it. It’s a hobby

[@jerryjohnson6810]

exactly

[@OldManMontgomery]

Being retired, the alternative to reloading is watching KZbin videos (some of which are worth watching) and playing computer games. Or overeating. So I do not consider my time as 'chargable'.

[@torchofkck4989]

As I agree with you about time reloading... For those who would argue for the notion of charging for time reloading... Look at the difference between your time cleaning & your money you'd spend getting your house cleaned. Figure out the value difference in percentage & that is public perception of what your time is worth.

[@thisguyiscool4826]

@@OldManMontgomery how long does is take to reload say 50-100 rounds? I work full time, have kids, try to make it to the gym, so I'm pretty busy but I wanna start shooting more. I already know reloading will be a chore for me, so I'm trying to decide whether the time will be worth the money saved for my lifestyle before I go out and but equipment

[@OldManMontgomery]

@@thisguyiscool4826 "how long?" depends on type of equipment, nature of round (plinking ammo for handguns is pretty simple, rifle ammo for 1000 yard competition takes more time) and skill of loader, which increases with experience. If you're going to be loading and shooting pretty general ammunition, I would suggest a progressive for faster output than a single stage press. I have Dillon equipment, and at the risk of sounding like a paid spokesman - which I am not - I suggest the Dillon 550 type progressive loader. It will do any handgun round and many centerfire rifle rounds. Cost is a bit steep, but the guarantee cannot be beat and buying the dirty dog cheapest stuff provides one the dirty dog cheapest stuff. With that rig and some application, I would think 50 rounds in an hour or less would be easy. This does include the cleaning, trimming and such which will make itself known later on. One can work at one's own preferred pace, too. The 50 rounds can be done in less sizable batches, as well. Do five, get interrupted, then come back and do ten more. Sleep, do ten more. You get the idea. I will warn you the hobby is addictive and demands attention. But not substantially more than doing dishes and not breaking stuff.

[@lz3572]

I have been reloading for over 40 years Taught to by my Father. And the best way to describe it is you can shoot about 5 times more for the same money . Of course my reloading equipment has paid for itself many times over So I don’t even factor that cost into it. And I get better accuracy and enjoyment out of it. It’s a great Hobby. Cheers

[@therevoman]

Reloading is a very relaxing hobby. It gives me the opportunity to get really technical about things that actually make a difference to something I enjoy. Your new name for the Tube cracks me up. My brain exploded every time I see one of these videos filtered or blocked, yet watching someone get dismembered or permanently injured while riding a skateboard is perfectly fine

[@roxyhelfrick446]

I shot several calibers that are no longer factory load so I reload or I don't shot

[@michaelprather8371]

Yeah, and if you put a beat behind it and call it "a music video", you can talk about killing and display the most dangerous gun handling and get full monetization.

[@sez1742]

My point exactly.

[@therevoman]

@@sez1742 so, do I upvote or downvote your comment. I agree with it. But it’s a disappointing truth

[@sez1742]

@@therevoman maybe the reassurance is knowing you’re not the only one who shares this sentiment. I’m sure there’s many more that agree. I understand if you downvote - lol.

[@dorzak975]

When I started reloading I was told by an established reloader that once you have your setup you won't save money, but you will probably shoot more. He says he spends as much on consumables as he used to on factory ammo, and shoots far more.

[@phredphlintstone6455]

Then that is a savings. Which is profit, that you just keep.

[@djtlfox]

Me while I'm reloading 9mm for 9 cents

[@jackmemphis777]

@@phredphlintstone6455 its profit that explodes, and thats alright

[@dennism837]

Shooting is a cost per unit of consumption function. Easily understood lol

[@danielkustra9071]

So he shoots MORE bullets for that cost or he shoots more because he makes his own bullets?

[@anthonymagill3714]

I find it relaxing as you forget everything else and focus on the bullet

[@russclewley6945]

I got setup for reloading about 8 years ago. I went the Dillon way and have never regretted it. Their warrantee is by far the best. I have had parts that I flat out wore out replaced no questions asked. I mainly bought my press for pistol reloading but have had excellent results reloading rifle. Component purchase sucks now. My sources where I used to purchase ammo components flat went out of business. You can't eat selling components if there are no components available. This is the longest drought that I can remember. The manufacturers bullshit about new hunter shooters buying all the ammo up is a lie. People are buying because everyone is afraid that the government is going to attack our rights and we don't know when we will be able to buy more stuff. I myself am primer poor. I have bullets, I have powder, I have brass and I have almost no primers. Now I have calibers I wish to load and can't find powder to load them certainly. I can tell you this I am not shooting anything for sport anymore. No more IDPA, no more 3 gun. IT SUCKS! FJB

[@louisdanes3662]

You cannot beat Dillon! Running two 550's, one for large primers and one for small primers! Reloading is a great winter hobby! Stay Safe!

[@Dajokerboy101]

Hey let me know exactly what you looking for or need. I can probably get it for you from good prices. Local store here in Alabama has everything. From reloading stations, primers, powders. Everything. I make my own launcher rounds (non lethal and legal) and I buy ffg powder and primers all the time. I've been wanting to get the reloading station to try doing 12 gauge shells

[@chunglow7646]

@@Dajokerboy101 Nice!!!

[@ivanov568]

"FJB"😂

[@L.R-pf2sb]

This is the way

[@trevorgale1176]

I love reloading, also as for "starter kits" I purchased a RCBS kit 32 years ago and over the years loaded thousands of rounds from 9mm to 444 Marlin, and it's still working perfectly. As a added bonus I can customize the load, to the rifle. Here a lot of factory ammo is around 3 to 4 dollars a shot.

[@chunglow7646]

Triple DANG! Supply chain is SUKKAGE by design. SAD

[@PS-rr2jt]

I got into reloading about 6 years ago, just as a curiosity. Now I’m addicted and sometimes shop for guns just in a caliber that I want to try to reload. My gear paid for itself a long time ago and I started stockpiling supplies before this craziness started. Very glad I did.

[@brandon1910]

Like most I enjoy reloading as it lets you customize the ammo, as well it's a peaceful escape. Trick is to always stock up on stuff when it's plentiful (mostly primers and powder)

[@skeetersaurus6249]

I did (roughly) this same financial break-down around 20-years ago...when primers were around $0.03, .223 projectiles were around $0.19, and powder was around $0.20 a charge...and assuming I could keep finding 'first-fired' brass (at my local range), it all came out around $0.42-$0.45 a load. Compared to decent 'match grade' .223, I was only gaining around $1 a box by reloading...but my big gainers were with my .300 Win Mag and .308 Win...all, to pay off a $300 RCBS Master Rockchucker Kit (with other accessories, around $500 total)...while the .223 (at the time) was a 'wash', it's the 'larger calibers' that often 'make the payment'. NEVER FORGET, that with powerful cartridges, however, you get a lot of brass 'wall thinning', so where you might get 4-5 reloads from a .223...that big .300 WM will thin walls out FAST (2-3 reloads, at MAX!)...so if you are buying brass, OUCH...so much for 'economy'...but if you are actually taking great care in your loads...NEVER FORGET, don't compare that 'super-economy' store-bought trash to what you are loading for a price-point...use top-end 'match grade' pricing...or else you are comparing Hyundai's to Rolls Royces as if they were equal!

[@dahveed284]

So true. Comparing your carefully and meticulously made hand loads to the cheapest stuff at the store is not a fair comparison.

[@timclaus8313]

Until the COVID shortages, I couldn't really see a reason to reload calibers such as 9mm, 38 special, .223, etc. These days? I can save money on all calibers.

[@albertforletta1498]

I don’t quite understand your math. Since 2017 till this very day, I have saved hundreds and MORE hundreds of dollars by reloading. Trailboss, 125gr lrn, CA, 38spl= $5.50 box of 50. --- Trailboss, 200gr lrn, CA, 45 Colt= $6.80 box of 50. ---- Ramshot Enforcer, 125gr XTP hunting-self defense load= $13.90 box of 50.

[@albertforletta1498]

Ramshot loads are 357 magnum. Forgot to list that caliber. High pressure, easy 12 reloads of brass. 38spl and 45 colt is always more than 22 reloads of brass. Low pressure.

[@noyb72]

@@albertforletta1498 that really isn't apples to apples. An XTP is way more expensive than a LRN. What would the economy be if you reloaded XTPs?

[@BipolarAyatollah]

Great video! So glad I stocked up on components during “normal” times!

[@markpelenytschka8374]

👍 ditto

[@SilverBullet22250]

👍 ditto x 2

[@boomdawg56]

Times 3.

[@danhayward9186]

You can still stock up the price will never come down I am currently loading 243W with 100 gr bullets that are over 40 yrs old they work aswellna the new stuff

[@davidprose8620]

I've been reloading since early 1980's. Enjoyed every time.

[@sandwickconsulting]

I got into reloading when I bought my .257 Weatherby 10 years ago. I bought it to save money vs buying the then $80-90/box of 20 factory Weatherby ammo. I’ve said it to many - when you buy a Weatherby, they should sell you a reloading system with it! Originally, I bought an RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme kit. I’ve replaced almost everything but the press. Lots of information on what to buy, but more importantly was having a friend of mine show me how to do it. I definitely don’t regret getting into it - but plan on spending $800-1k in equipment. I now reload for my 30-06, my Dad’s .270, along with the Weatherby (when ND graces me with a lottery tag), and I now am very grateful for reloading abilities. I was fortunate to have bought supplies for all a few years ago as I now see all the shelves vacant for ‘06 and .270. It’s nice sighting in and printing clover leafs for all!

[@timclaus8313]

Once you start getting into the larger rifle or magnum pistol rounds, you can rack up some considerable savings while reloading. My budget buster is a 35 Whelen. When you can find the ammo, it is going to $2 or more per round. But it is a beast with pretty much any load your roll for yourself.

[@canabox7112]

I know a guy who was in love with the 10mm. The reason he got into reloading was because he wasn’t satisfied with the factory loads. Soon he was selling 10mm to other people. Then he got into precision rifles and it just took off from there. Turned into a full time business

[@DucDNA]

I'd advise your friend not to manufacture ammo and sell it without a license.

[@slowmotionbetterthannomotion.]

@@DucDNAohh noo what will he doo????? 🤦‍♂️

[@DucDNA]

@@slowmotionbetterthannomotion. He could end up in jail. There are laws for manufacturing and selling ammunition. Even if it were legal, which it is not without a license, your friend is opening himself up to liability should someone claim the ammo they bought from him malfunctioned and caused injury. Not worth it!!!

[@johnb.6468]

I bet you think citizens don’t need anything more than a shotgun and ARs should be illegal?

[@DucDNA]

@@johnb.6468 I don't believe that at all. I'm just trying to give some advise that will keep people from getting themselves in trouble. You or that other guy can do what you want. Th ATF are looking for reasons to make examples out of people.

[@johnshields9110]

I started reloading in 1976 to find the best load for my 22-250. Back in those days not every rifle would shoot less than 1 MOA without putting in the work. You get to shoot more when reloading and eventually save a lot of money.

[@cliffthomson7870]

I started reloading in 1975 for 357. I had a rockchucker mounted on 3/4" plywood C-clamped to the kitchen table, a pound of Unique, a set of Lee spoons, RCBS powder funnel, 357 dies (No one told me to buy 38 special) CCI primers, and 158 gr lead SWCs, 50 Winchester 357 cases. The spoons came with a chart of spoon size versus various powder weights. I chose one that was about 70% max. Those were my first 500 reloads. From there I bought a Pacific triple beam, Lyman 55 powder measure I still use. Today I still use the rockchucker for special rifles, have a MEC 750, and a Dillon 650 and a lot on ancillary stuff. My advice is buy one piece at a time. Talk to friends, read reloading manuals. Sierra is the best. Watch videos. Take your time. Don't take any advice from the big gun/sport stores. Most are BS artists. Good luck and good shooting.

[@576103]

With respect to the time spent reloading: consider that there is also some time associated with buying factory ammo, depending on how near or far you are from a purveyor of such stuff. I can easily reload several boxes of ammo in less time than it would take me to drive to a gun shop and back. And I won’t have burned any $5 per gallon gas either…

[@bradmiller9993]

I agree; I'm also going to throw in there the issue of shipping cost....I've passed on a few 'deals' I've found online just because shipping would sometimes almost double the cost of the item. Lesson learned; if/when the market ever approaches normal again, I'll be investing in precious metal, if you know what I mean.

[@Bbbbsslm]

At some point you’d still gotta go down and get powder , primes and lead though 😂

[@jeremymenning56]

@@Bbbbsslm or pay to have them shipped.

[@Adamhawk1994]

@@bradmiller9993 same brother same

[@SilverBullet22250]

@@Bbbbsslm Unless you stockpiled when the previous Democrat was in charge and are now set for life. 😉

[@davidanderson3875]

I’ve been reloading for many years and am very familiar with the economics of it-but it is great to see you break it down this way for people that don’t know what all is involved. Great little video. You can go to a restaurant and get a very good meal and pay a lot for it. You could also make the same meal at home, for less money, and customize it to your specific tastes. Just like reloading vs factory ammo.

[@tedpeek76]

Excellent analogy. Gotta steal that one

[@wannabe4668]

Great analogy, I will use it in the future

[@RH-xr8ms]

Was gonna sat great analogy,, but two guys beat me to it. Nice going !!!!

[@vinceruland9236]

For general plinking and just fun range ammo, the best $ savings I've experienced was with casting my own bullets. That drives the cost for say .357mag down to $3 or so for a box of 50.

[@hardcore4476]

Nice! What do you cast your bullets out of? Thinking of doing the same myself one day down the road..

[@vinceruland9236]

@@hardcore4476 I just use old wheel weights. The clip on ones. But you have to be careful because there are a lot of them these days that aren't lead.

[@GabrielGarcia-300]

If I ever build a 458 socom like I really want to, I'll be getting into casting 😆

[@vinceruland9236]

@@GabrielGarcia-300 it's fun to do.

[@hardcore4476]

@@vinceruland9236 Interesting.. Do you wear a respirator when melting down the lead?

[@haroldhatcher1239]

Yes reloading is a necessary skill. Especially these day. I bought an RCBS Rock Chucker kit in the 1970’s. I still have all the original components of that kit and I still use them all. I have recouped my original investment many times over. I bought a lot of primers, powder, and bullets in bulk back in the day and still have enough left to last the rest of my shooting days. Primers we’re a penny each, powder was about $5 a pound and bullets we’re about $5 for 50. It pays to think ahead. Young people getting started now should buy the best starter set they can afford and buy as many components, in bulk, as they can afford now so they can enjoy a lifetime of reloading. The prices won’t come down. Years from now these prices will seem so cheap and they will kick themselves in the butt for not buying more while they were cheap. You will be able to pass this stuff on to your kids and grandkids and they will enjoy cheap reloading too

[@keithlucas6260]

parents bought me a complete RCBS kit with several dies (45 acp, 9mm, 30.06) at a garage sale for $25 bucks....also a new 36 oz Vaughn framing hammer (went thru three handles) back in 1968. Still have all of it including the hammer. Bought 45 long colt dies and a Lee Anniversary kit later in 1998. From there 303 British dies, 5.56 NATO, 300 Win Mag, 308, and lastly 6.5 Creedmore for the son-in-law. One thing about 30 cal is they can use the same bullets.

[@ErikS308]

My Rock Chucker is from the early 80s, my 505 isn't much newer. Quality reloading equipment can last longer than a Kitchen Aide counter top mixer. SO, forever.

[@keithlucas6260]

@@ErikS308 ....mine came from retired USAF Major Burns a B29/B52 pilot at March AFB and along with a reloading manual from the late 40's most likely was from the 50's. It's one of the things that I treasure are old books & manuals....I've even have Motor's Manuals from the 50's and they show photos of all the old 30's, 40's and 50's cars.

[@cjberan]

Prices go up longer term but we are nearing a peak.

[@bradleyswasey6778]

You can't go wrong with a rock chucker.

[@demetriuscooksey7147]

I don't contaminate my guns with factory ammo.

[@desertdave5835]

I went with a Lee progressive loader for 9mm, 380 and testing with 5.56. And a Lee single stage for rifle. Cheap and so far I've reloaded around 2k rounds of 9mm. I was lucky to have purchased 5000 small pistol primers and 1000 bullets back when the last ammo shortage hit. Got powder and I was in business. I have paid for all the equipment, plus a few k more bullets and dies for 380, .308 and 30 06. Up until this I could not justify the price of the equipment, but now it is a paid for asset. Plus, I have all the ammo I need and it is a lot of fun!

[@foxtrap8826]

I started reloading when I was fifteen. I'm 77 now, and I still "roll my own" ammo. When I started 62 years ago, there was scant equipment out there. Mostly just presses; no Lee loaders, etc. I started out loading shot shells, and I made my own tools out of what-ever worked. I can't count the times when I could keep shooting while other folks were "out of ammo." When I arrive at the Pearly Gates, I'll probably still be carrying a box of ammo!

[@dfabove9108]

I am 76 now and started loading at age 12 .I grew up in a single parent ( mom ) household and lived in a time that neighbors looked out for each other ! My next door neighbor knew that I loved shooting and would invite me over in the evening to help him reload shotgun shells . I didn't get my first shotgun till 2 years later but loved learning how to reload ! He also belonged to a rod and gun club and would take along to the club meetings as they had junior memberships . There I interacted with adult and teenage people that loved hunting ,fishing all all things shooting ! A few of the guys took me under wing and tought me metallic reloading and I became hooked ! Those people made a great impact on my young life and I will be forever greatfull !

[@stephenland9361]

I've had my reloading gear for thirty years. Nothing fancy, just good basic equipment which got started with an RCBS press. I still dispense powder loads the old fashioned way (a volumetric powder dispenser) and then trickle into a pan on a triple beam balance. (I am not exactly a high volume reloader! I go for consistency thus accuracy.) My point here is not so much the cost of reloading. Whenever reloading components went on sale back in the day, I'd load up. I knew which powders I wanted, which bullets I used and what primers I used. I have seldom had to buy brass as it's available at the range for the cost of picking it up. If you like Brand X brass, someone will be shooting Brand X factory loads. One weekend at my range must have featured "Federal .30-06 Days" because on Monday I picked up over 100 cases, all shiny and new. Powder and primers kept stored in a cool, dry place have a very long shelf life. Even after opening a container, it still can last decades. Unopened containers (properly sealed) if properly stored, I suspect will last longer than my lifetime. So, the point is, I'm still loading and shooting while many fellow nimrods have been forced to give it up for the duration. I have no opinion on the cause of the shortage of ammo and components because I don't care. It doesn't effect me. I'm down to my last pound of IMR 4350 but I've still got plenty of other powders, about 2/3 of which is unopened. So, when the supplies get up again, DON'T buy massive amounts. That will just creates another shortage. Slowly buildup an inventory. And when the next shortage hits (and it will), you'll be fine.

[@russellkeeling4387]

Sorry to hear you're running low on IMR 4350, I would be panicking, I use it a lot.

[@6mileoutdoors]

Jim, You’re exactly right! I reload because my dad taught me. I watched him optimize a load for his Rem700 to shoot dime size groups, while his buddies were lucky to shoot 1 MOA. However, regarding the financial side, I don’t always save money reloading. I am however protecting myself from any future shortages. I’ve collected enough components for each caliber to last a long time. Keep cranking out great content. Bobby

[@thetobaccoguy1751]

For common calibers you can load for about a 50% discount. For high end or oddballs that jumps to over 70%. Start casting your own projectiles, and you will save over 90%. My biggest saver right now is 500 Linebaugh. Factory ammo is about $4 per round. My cost is about $.20.

[@randallkelley3600]

Yep. And some calibers have always been expensive from the factory, for what they are. 22 Hornet and 30 Carbine come to mind. Relatively expensive to buy factory loads, but due to the cheap bullets and small powder charges, very cheap to reload.

[@maadv7237]

Doesn't look cheaper on a lot of calibers right now..

[@georgepatton9744]

@@maadv7237 if you do an Apple to Apple comparisons between an established reloader and factory reloading is cheaper. Now is definitely not the time to get into it. I been reloading .338 Win Mag and have never bought a factory round because they have always cost about $3.50 each.

[@thetobaccoguy1751]

@@maadv7237 It still is. If you do something so stupid as to buy primers, or any components, on Gunbroker, then of course not. Primers are out there at fair prices, you just need to hunt them down.

[@P1cannonman]

416Rigby is currently between $7 -- $11 per round. Cost to reload? Approx. $.70 per round - with 400 grn solids and Norma brass mostly purchased at auction a half dozen years ago.

[@calangel]

The point of handloading in my eyes is and always has been to tune a load to my particular firearm for better performance (accuracy, power) and/or to use a bullet or configuration not available from the factory. I can load high performance bullets like Hammer Hunters to push the 223 Remington past its perceived performance limits, or I can make subsonics for quiet work, reducing the number of firearms I need to take with me at any given moment.

[@critiquemytechnique1135]

Nice

[@wilfdarr]

Exactly. It's not ever going to be cheaper than a company set up to make hundreds of thousands to even millions of rounds every day. It's not even going to be more consistent, you making it with a $500 scale and $100 press. But, It. Will. Be. Tuned! Even if you're a sponsored shooter, you will not get tuned ammo from a commercial manufacturer.

[@jjsemperfi]

Agreed. Reloaded ammo, tuned for your rifle will almost always shoot better than factory ammo.

[@glockkidd]

Right exactly. Nowadays you don’t save any money reloading. Reloading is only good if you wanna be able to choose how hot your round is and customize the power. Other than that all the supplies you’re almost spending more money on ammo for better ammo (that’s if you are good at reloading)

[@wilfdarr]

@@glockkidd I misread your comment.

[@glennwatson2751]

here in south african a hand loaded round costs me about half the price of a factory round, excluding time and equipment needed to load. But for me this is also just a fun process and i enjoy the time with friends. It's really satisfying to shoot my own loads

[@buddyringo21]

I was ready to make the jump into reloading last year only to find almost no reloading equipment available! Recently I seen that most things ( press, dies, accessories) are now available also we are starting to see primers again , I think I will start collecting the equipment now starting with press and dies 😁 Great video! 🇺🇸

[@Mrhirtzel]

I started a year ago this month and I was able to find all the components I needed and more (my wife would definitely say more). It did take an extreme amount of time searching all corners of the internet and buying primers from a local trading/ selling site. I actually ended up buying and reselling a lot of equipment and components during the last year. It is out there for sure, but I can understand why most people don't have the time needed to search for all the things one needs to reload.

[@russellkeeling4387]

At this point the most important thing for you to buy is your first good reloading manual and read and read it again. You'll learn so much more than you can pick up on UTube.

[@albertlemont5471]

Reloading has always been cheaper for any kind of ammo that is worth a damn.

[@Rusty_ok]

Good video. I have run a similar spreadsheet on my handgun calibers. Making similar assumptions (free labor, free brass etc) even with 7 cents per primer ($70/1000) and powder at $39/lb, my cost for a 50 round box of 9mm is under $10. I shoot handguns every week in an informal IDPA style competition with about a dozen other guys. Some weeks (if everyone shows up) I only shoot 45-50 rounds, some weeks I shot well over 100. I load 9mm on an old Dillon 650 that I bought used and rebuilt myself. I load everything else (357/38, 45, 300 blackout, 223, etc.) on an old Dillon 550. Bought primers & powder in bulk when things were cheap and plentiful. Bullets are readily available from Rocky Mountain reloading, Everglades, Missouri Bullets, bayou Bullets, precision Bullets, or other online suppliers. The Dillon progressive press allows me to make 300-400 rounds an hour working at a leisurely pace.

[@stevewehner9540]

Thanks I really appreciate you and your channel. I come from a time when there actually were Reloading shops. You could go into one and spend $20 and come out with everything you needed to reload rounds.

[@battalion151R]

It's always comforting to know you can relax while others are panic buying ammo. Take a few bucks every time you walk through your neighborhood mom and pop gun store and buy some reloading components. Keep 'em saved back because another ammo shortage is coming. If you restuff 'em, you have no shortage.

[@rickerdman9116]

Reloading is relaxing to me Jim. I like building ladders, testing them at the range and then see the effect on game.

[@gsxr1189]

You must be married. I think married guys enjoy reloading more and us single guys hate it. Why is a mystery to me.....🤣

[@williamsoutherland9087]

@@gsxr1189 I’m gonna go with “Maturity” as the main answer, but then again, I’m old and married, and I reload and love it.

[@gsxr1189]

@@williamsoutherland9087 Gets you away from the wife for a few hours at a time huh.

[@williamsoutherland9087]

@@gsxr1189 More like gets me away from everything for a little while. For me, time in the shop is almost as good as time in a blind, or a boat. I don’t think about work, chores, how flipping old and fat I’m getting, or any of that. Just making sure I do the same exact thing, as consistently as possible as many times as is necessary.

[@sheerluckholmes5468]

Reloading has always been a viable option with the following benefits, you get to tailor make ammo for your situation, you get to shoot more because you saved money, you can knock out a box of ammo at 2:00am if you need to, you get to save money because you *don't* have show a profit and it's fun. I'm sure you can find other reasons for rolling your own.

[@ryanharris6045]

It's really good to look at the numbers. Thank you for always sharing the numbers. I started reloading 35 years ago when I inherited a rifle in .284 Winchester. Ammunition was scarce, even then, inaccurate and $29.99 a box!. I got an RCBS rock chucker kit and still have it. Back then it was just a hobby, like growing vegetables. Now it seems like a neccessary skill.

[@slick-px4pq]

What rifle is it?

[@ryanharris6045]

@@slick-px4pq It was a Winchester model 88. Factory ammo was pretty rare back in the 80's. Expensive too.

[@upholdthesecond92]

Reloading is my favorite hobby. I load about 24 different calibers. I really got into it in 2014 and I wish I kept a record of everything i bought to do it. I started with a Hornady progressive press vs start up kit. I’m glad I stocked up on components when I did. I can’t believe the prices on primers. 10-20 cent for a primer? It’s crazy. I paid 2-3 cent even at the end of 2019. During this covid and BLM times, Im still loading 9mm for 12 cent a round. 500 mag after 3 rounds on brass, I’m down to 50 cent a round. Two factors for me, 1. It’s a hobby, time don’t matter. 2. When there is some national crisis and Ammo shortage, I now have enough components that will outlast it. Probably will outlast my life.

[@silentbob7984]

Reloading for me is a hobby, it’s about the tightest groups I can get with my rifles ( within reason ). Reloading in Canada if you shoot often is definitely less expensive if your shooting pistol. Prices here in Canada are insane compared to what the good folks in the US pay. I have a progressive press, so it doesn’t take too much time. I always collect more pistol brass than I shoot at the range so brass isn’t a factor.

[@locapitano]

Dude I love your videos. A. You’re real as hell and B. You almost always talk about 6.5cm which really helps lol. Thank you for all the time you take in make such great videos

[@chrismartinez8393]

Nothing beats reloading during a ammo run when you stacked components over the years. Components always keep there value

[@Holden-McGroin]

Instead of bits and pieces, I just stack whole cartridges. Same difference except I don’t have to monkey around at a bench for hours to go shoot.

[@StuninRub]

Components do not keep their value, there is something called equipment depreciation

[@chrismartinez8393]

@@StuninRub have look at the prices lately only going higher

[@StuninRub]

@@chrismartinez8393 The same can be said about the current used car market, but it's not really appreciating in value. This is only appears to be the case in times of hoarding and economic decline. Your equipment is not retaining value or increasing in value, but the currency is inflating faster than the equipment can depreciate. The depreciation still exists, it's just the money you used in the past was worth a lot more then the money right now.

[@1810jeff]

@@StuninRub Not necessarily true, it all depends on the value increase relative to the current inflation percentage. So let's say that inflation is at 10% and the value of something increased 20% then it did appreciate but if both are at 10% then it didn't appreciate only the USD depreciated.

[@lindholmgroup5465]

I agree with you totally. I also believe in the ability to be able to build my own when the predictable cycles of shortages occur.

[@ronaldjohnson1474]

How can you agree with this guy who denigrates reloading?

[@mtnman1]

I legitimately trust your insight… I’ve been wanting to get into reloading for years but have been intimidated by the process.

[@phild8095]

True, I am my own quality control for something that could blow up inches from my face. Do one thing at a time, follow known instructions, take no shortcuts.

[@hez9028]

Me too

[@Lemur70]

Very good video. Almost 3 years ago I got started more seriously into rifles and could not get any ammo so I started reloading and found I love it. I love the accuracy I get from my loads and find that factory ammo can't touch good reloading. I enjoy refining my technique and the satisfaction of searching for the perfect load giving the circumstances. Thanks again.

[@ReloadingWeatherby]

I think it depends on the cartridge. I save a lot of money reloading 300 WBY. I can reload that for under $2, factory ammo is around $4 to $5 a round. But the biggest reason I reload is for accuracy and I really enjoy doing it

[@n8o8n]

Love your channel RW!

[@falba1492]

I couldn’t agree more. I load for 300 H&H, and I’ve seen 20 rounds go for $100. Because I’m working with components I bought two years ago, my cost is about $1.30 a round with premium hunting bullets.

[@tacticalmattfoley]

No one on KZbin does Weatherby justice. So many good cartridges like 30-378 and others. I know it's expensive, but my experience with Weatherby has been fantastic. The Accumark is my favorite hunting rifle of all time. I've owned 6 over the years from 338-378 to 30-06.

[@ReloadingWeatherby]

@@tacticalmattfoley I do :) Or at least I try. Go check my channel

[@tacticalmattfoley]

@@ReloadingWeatherby I sure will. It’s crazy that I’ve never run across your channel before.

[@RonnFolk]

Hey youtube, reloading ammo is not illegal.

[@vincetytler6175]

I reload and enjoy it, even in normal times it is much cheaper that buying factory and I quite like the ability to adjust the recipe. I started with a Lee box set, some advise from friends and quite a few UTube videos when these thing were allowed. Anyway as always great content, thank you!

[@WordSaladSpeachWriter]

Whether I save money or not, I have found reloading to be cathartic. Spending a few hours a month going through the process of cleaning and prepping used brass, to reloading .223, .308, and 30-06. It’s a great escape.

[@waynesligar5948]

I have shot reloads for 35 years and love them. I use 270 and 243

[@georgepatton9744]

Shot my .243 today and put 2 5 shot groups in a 1/4 clover leaf with 2 seperate etsStill working the load. The only more accurate rifle I have is the.22-250

[@waynesligar5948]

@@georgepatton9744 i agree i love shooting my 243 it's a great varmint round, I've also shot several deer with it. I also love my 270 it's so accurate

[@andrewlyon4692]

I just bought a 243 but finding ammunition is next to impossible around here. I've got 6 boxes of different bullet weights. I just wish I could shoot the gun more without worrying about getting more. I bought the gun mainly because I shoot left handed and finding a left handed bolt action was seeming impossible but finally found a store a hour away that had one in stock. I've always hunted with a 270 and love that caliber. I sure hope whoever took my guns a few years back is enjoying my Browning A bolt medallion that I owned. I will say though, I'm loving the 243 so far and the accuracy it has been shooting. I'm shooting nickel sized groups so far at 100 yards. I havent got the opportunity yet to stretch its legs yet but am looking forward that day for sure. Awesome caliber for sure!

[@billalvarez319]

Great video. In my case of reloading for 30 plus years there are years of purchasing tools of the trade and supplies. It would be hard, I would think to start reloading with all the things that you would keep in your arsenal of reloading equipment. I started with a balance beam scale. A single stage press. Raising a family you sneak in what you can. But it’s a hobby for life. And one I have passed on to my sons. Thanks again.

[@eskimoreloader]

Even this eskimo reloads it's fun.

[@RodCalidge]

Ima weigh in here. I've been reloading for about 35 years. A good friend taught me how to do it and do it right,(safe),. I am pretty good at it and find it relaxing and therapeutic as many are claiming in these comments. It has a satisfying effect when you fire it. Having said that I switched to buying my ammo a few years ago and I'm all the happier for it. The factory stuff these days is accurate and consistent and even though it costs me some bucks , I spend wayyyyyyy more time shooting than I used to. Remember boys and girls, there's no one right way in life. There's just what makes you happy and what doesn't. Happy shooting everyone.

[@LouT1501]

Good video, which I found through YT's suggestions, imagine that! I do not consider my time; reloading is quality time. I also don't consider the cost of brass as I use a mix of range and new brass as well as picking up the stuff I shoot. With the increasing cost of components, it may not be cost effective to reload but I appreciate that I am making rounds to my specifications. As far as that goes, I have never found new ammo using the specific bullets that I use for certain calibers.

[@timclaus8313]

When I'm reloading for my own use for range time, or to train up the kids and grandkids, mixed brass isn't a big deal. Plus we can tailor some different power loads for learning purposes. My eyes aren't good enough any longer for very long range shooting, so I am not doing bench rest ammo, mostly just plinking ammo.

[@scenicdriveways6708]

I'm retired and for the last 2 1/2 years my wife and I lived in an RV full time while we traveled the U.S.. I like to shoot and reload, so I purchased a Lee Hand Press ( no room in our RV for a bench mount ). I use RCBS carbide dies, with Hornady locking rings and a portable Hornady digital scale. My setup is very basic, inexpensive , it's slow, but I enjoy it and it works extremely well for my needs. So you don't need to invest a whole lot to get started. When I first started reloading .38 spl. and .357 mag. I started with Lee Classic Hand Loaders. I enjoyed reloading with them and I still have them and use them from time to time. My wife and I purchased a house in Kentucky and moved in 2 days ago. But I have no plans to upgrade from my Lee Hand Press, I'm perfectly happy with it. Nice video, thanks for sharing. JT P.S. As far as reloading equipment goes, can you really consider the price if it's a hobby that brings you joy? It's like buying a painting vs creating one. Yes, it cost money for art supplies, but it's a hobby and it brings you joy. To create your own ammunition and be able to go to the range and see how good it works brings me joy, it's a hobby.

[@RH-xr8ms]

Have you ever thought about Golf as a hobby ??? Whew,,,,,golf clubs, cart, cart shed rent, Club membership, golf shoes & glove,,,really, reloading aint all that hard on the bank account !!!

[@scenicdriveways6708]

@@RH-xr8ms I like reloading, and I didn't spend a metric sh-t ton of $$ on equipment. I still have over 1,500 small pistol primers left from before the prices went up and they got scarce , and I have plenty of powder and bullets.

[@mandovapehater6988]

I don't reload to save money. I reload to shoot 5 times and make one hole.

[@RecreationalSniper]

I appreciate this video. I'm not sure where you are located but I know in my area buying supplies locally and bidding on them on said auction sights and even buying old supplies from reloaders getting out of the hobby that I can definitely load cheaper than even what you explained. But as far as the equipment, I use a lee hand press for most everything so the cost of my equipment has long been paid for. My setup/system is very simple and basic but very effective. I can load about 50 rounds in an hour and have extreme spreads of 20-30 fps.

[@keithlucas6260]

Starting to see shelves at Academy once again fill up.....you can find 9mm, 380, 45acp, 223/5.56, 7.62x39, 308/7.62x51 and various others. 308 is $24.99/box which is why I chose it for my AR-10 build, plus they have plenty of 30 cal Hornady bullets for reloading.

[@yoholmes273]

I live in Communist state. 2 days ago only allowed one box of Blazer Brass in 45 for 45.99. Had to show state government purchaser card too.

[@terrybritton1355]

Still can’t find 243 anywhere. :(. That is typically our family go to to keep ammo getting confused in the truck while hunting. I am using our bigger guns now to save ammo for the kids and wife.

[@keithlucas6260]

@@terrybritton1355 ....Academy sells 243 (6mm) Hornady SST bullets for reloading.... I've got a 1968 Remington 700 ADL in 243 and the grandson got a 243 for his 11th birthday last year so I keep an eye out for that ammo as well. Great deer rifle.

[@Dieselhorses]

Nicely done! Only been reloading for about 7 years but now it's at the top of list. Very therapeutic and the skill crosses over to other tasks to pay more attention to detail-not to mention the accuracy attained.

[@johnmetson7950]

The most important point you missed out on was.The independence from supply and government fickleness

[@darinduncan5484]

KZbin bumms me out, there is so much information you could give minus the YT rules that would be so helpful. I took a 30 year break from my heavy shooting days and raised kids, Grand kids. Now that I am back into shooting. Finding solid information is a challenge. Thanks for the video and thank you for the link.

[@benzee1]

It kills me how expensive it is to reload now. I used to buy my powder for maybe $25. 1000 primers $20. 500ct .44 cast for $19‐24. Today's costs are insane! Btw, I still have a box with a $23 tag on it.

[@dnaderelmasry7973]

To be fair, bullet prices have gone up too so it's still worth reloading.

[@adrianestrada9799]

I started with an RCBS Pro 2000 about 20 years ago. I just finished 400 62 grain 223 rounds and was winding down when i came across this video. During the primer shortage, i actually reloaded used primers using rolls of red caps. Like for kids toy pistols. It was time consuming for sure, but I was able to run 90 rounds 9mm and 30 of 223 without a hitch. I only did it to see if it would actually work. I even made a tool to flatten the firing pin dent using an old c-clamp. There is no longer a primer shortage but at least i know i wont be without.

[@davebone8326]

I have to say before the price insanity I reloaded purely for the accuracy I could achieve , now the economy is a bonus.

[@shanemcguire170]

I watched this clip yesterday, because it was at work I could not comment. I really think this discussion depends on a couple of things. Most of the comments below are from people who use Ammunition Reloading as a hobby or a time outlet activity. Their comments are spot on, and I respect their point of view. However I have not seen any comments by "Volume Reloaders" such as myself. My wife and I for 25+ years worked for Department of Homeland Security as Armed Security Officers in the Bay Area. Having this job requires you to maintain your skills, seek alternate and advanced training, maintain those skills and maintain your relative licenses for carrying your firearm(s) on duty. That said, all of this requires ammunition to go to the range and practice. And, practice we did! During this period in our career(s) ammunition costs were always a discussion with our relative employers. Yes they were requires to cycle their duty ammunition but they always were very snotty, (downright ...hole'ish), about the 'Expired" duty ammunition. "Cheap" practice ammunition is a myth here in California, and it still is. With the special taxes collected, your average box of 50 Rounds of: 9mm, .40 S&W, .38 Special, .45 ACP, .357 Magnum; will run you a cool $40.00 per box. (Average of $35.00), depending on where you get your ammo from, yes including Wally-World. Dry practice will only get you so far, and cannot take the place of live fire exercises. Using Airsoft as a Practice Tool is a great alternative provided you can get the Green Gas you need to operate your pistol. The issue with Airsoft, is the Magazines are expensive, and you still have to be careful about where you practice because the pistols look and operate just like the real thing. Lastly, Airsoft Pistols were not designed for heavy practice sessions, the seals in them do not hold up to long practice sessions. As a Volume Reloader I reload on average 1000 to 2000 rounds per loading session. I do not reload Rifle Cartridges, as my collection is mainly restored WWII Military Rifles, so nearly all of my rifles are fed Military Surplus which they are happy to burn, and at Gun Shows I can get that Burdan Primed Ammunition cheap. Yes some of it is corrosive, but you people who don't clean your rifles after their shooting sessions get what you deserve! Clean your guns! For pistol reloading this is not a hobby for myself. This becomes necessary to maintain handgun training. Average shooting sessions are from 250 to 500 rounds per training session. So when I tell you that 1000 rounds of 9mm goes very quick, I'm not kidding. Its not like "John Wick", but timed sessions for quick draw and many other tactical training sessions, you burn up ammunition. Its a simple as that. On average My wife and I, while we were on Contract would easily burn 10,000 to 15,000 rounds per year. Sometimes more, sometimes less. So we had to find a way to reduce the sheer costs of the ammunition and the answer was reloading. I never played around with experimenting with other Loading Data once I researched the "Sweet Spot" for the accuracy and reliability of the "Cookie Recipe" as I referred to it. My goal was to duplicate Duty Ammunition velocities, accuracy, reliability and energy on every cartridge. Once the presses were set, and rolling I never changed the adjustments other than to return them to their previous settings. Powder drops were carefully and regularly checked, and finished cartridges were AOL Checked in Gauge then weighed to be sure they were in spec. This was mainly done to ensure accurate powder drops were being maintained, (very easy setting on a digital scale). Any cartridges not meeting minimums was discarded, broken down with a Kenetic Hammer and run through the process again. (Never De-Cap Live Primers). I used WD40 to kill them before De-Capping. Initial setup costs seemed to not be a benefit for any of this until I did all of my math to pay for the presses, which was on Box 20, (50 Rounds), of what ever caliber I was reloading at the time. The presses I have been using for all of this is a pair of Lee Pro-1000 Progressive 3 Stage Turret Presses, I have never had any failures in these presses, and finish all cartridges single stage with the Lee Factory Crimp Die in their relative calibers. Friends of mine have tried to get me into RCBS or Dillion, I cannot justify their costs because I do not reload Rifle Calibers, and if I did the rifle cartridges would be loaded Single Stage mainly because they need more attention than Pistol Cartridges where you are not dealing with a bottle-necked cartridge. Currently we are no longer working on the Federal Contracts, so the volume requirements have significantly reduced, but the reloading sessions are still done at 1000 round lots when needed. But I felt I needed to address this from a person who in the past reloaded by volume. I would only say this... The investment I made in the reloading equipment at the time was a justifiable expense, and the presses have paid for themselves more than 30 times over in savings. But I also recognize that I fall into the vast minority of reloaders in this instance.

[@eaznutts5714]

I've been reloading for years, I've always saved money and always shot sub moa. Try shooting a 338LM without producing your own, i put them together for 2.45 each. A box of similar factory will run 140.00 for 20.

[@lewisgarland4025]

lord yes i have been using Leigh Deffense Projectiles but the Brass is harder to come by

[@eaznutts5714]

@@lewisgarland4025 yes it is... 400.00 for 100 pieces here in phx

[@lewisgarland4025]

@@eaznutts5714 Diamond K Brass has 50 for $91.50 mixed .338 Lapua Brass

[@michaelapple2753]

About like my 7mm STW at around $8-10/round factory now. I'm not entirely sure what the cost would be for reload but from what I've seen it's going to be under $3-4

[@eaznutts5714]

@@michaelapple2753 the cost of components is what gets you these days. If you have them already it should be very cost effective

[@JonNevius-pu7oh]

I enjoy reloading as a hobby. I do figure labor in my costs. I enjoy having ammo when no one else can get it. I dont save money, but I have it and can make more. Thats satisfying. Buy the best equipment and it will last a good while. Good luck and God bless.

[@nicsu2128]

I can say per cartridge it is quite a bit cheaper for me to reload. However, reloading has also caused me to shoot 50x more than I did before reloading. So 🤷‍♂️

[@davidrobins4025]

Very well done video. Thanks for the information. I've reloaded my own handgun and rifle ammunition in various calibres and enjoy the exercise. I find I don't save that much money, but I do shoot a whole lot more. At one point I had over 23,000 cartridges of once fired .40 brass and over 12,000 cartridges of once fired .223 brass. I sold some of it and saved what I thought I might need. Both primers and powder are difficult to find where I live right now.

[@alexjones519]

I’d enjoy seeing a series on precision rifle loading and tools. I’m trying to get into it now. Move over to Rumble man. YT is going to be a ghost town IMO

[@blaiz4]

go watch Eric Cortina on youtube he will explain all ypu need to know . dude is a beast

[@nathanminich8549]

Johny’s reloading bench is a good source.

[@ShastaBean]

Bolt Action Reloading & gavintoobe dish out valuable info.. From what I've heard, Rumble aint it either, unfortunately. They may be fine for 2A right now, but so was YT at one time.

[@alexjones519]

@@ShastaBean not sure what you heard, There is no censoring on Rumble. I think it will replace YT in the near future.

[@alexjones519]

@@blaiz4 really enjoying this guy Eric

[@EdTom82]

I love reloading for my 44 mags. Most off-the-shelf rounds (if you can find them) are 180 or 240 grain JHPs (which are fine) and are over $1 a round. Reloading lets me make powder-puff loads using Trail Boss and cast lead, or I can jack it up to a 325-grain hard cast pushing 1300 fps using H110. Reloading (if done competently) also lets you eliminate nearly all chance of error. I weigh every single charge, inspect every case and primer, seat every bullet. I know what is in every single round, which is some nice peace of mind.

[@jeffumbach]

44 is why I originally got into it, largely because 44 SPL was non-existent around here and sometimes I wanted to shoot a light load in my revolver. Then I got a lever-action 44 Mag and factory loads were too light so I worked up a loading from the rife data to get some ammo that really takes advantage of that longer barrel. Also if you're cursed with a finicky semi-auto that seems to hate most factory ammo it's nice to have a loading worked up that you can create consistently and not have to be parting with the firearm instead just to pass the issue onto someone else.

[@Muzzy519]

Lol. “….3 boxes a year to shoot his white tail.” I understand what your trying to say it just made me picture some guy opening up on one lonely deer and ending up with a pound of ground meat.

[@Pottan23]

Getting the most out of that FFL license lol

[@threedawg]

This type of content doing the research and just putting it out there for people to consume is great. Would love to see an update eventually.

[@1968CudaGuy]

I've been "rolling my own" for 30+ years and it never was about the savings or perceived savings.. I love the science and technical aspects of reloading and I like to shoot.. Part of reloading is making your own bullets. Either by casting, jacketed bullet swaging, and other bullets making processes. Think about the last time you saw 357 Mag at your local gun shop and how much it was..... This week I did a little over a 1000 rounds of 357 Magnum. Most were loaded with powder coated lead bullets I made but I had both 125gr Berry's plated and 125 Hornady XTP HP I loaded. Finishing a batch of 180gr 357 Mag SP "Deer Slayers" to finish this season and have plenty for the next couple seasons for my Rossi M92. I also load ammo you didn't see much before the Scamdemic and now you never see. Ammo like 32 S&W, 32 H&R Mag, 38 Super, 44 Special, 357 Sig, and a really rare 41 Action Express.. I remember buying full cases of 5000 count Federal Gold Medal Match small and large pistol primers for $65 back in the late 90's.. Still got a box and half I'm about to use up on some 40S&W next week..

[@alwaysfreedom9354]

I had 40,000 Winchester primers I bought about 10 years ago go bad on me. I have much older primers that are still good. My Remington rifle primers I bought for my 45/70 are much older. They work great. But those 40,000 Winchester primers are no good. I am only telling people the truth. Not mad at the Winchester company, or anything else. But it is fact their primers went bad on me. Even put longer firing pens in several revolvers. Only helped. But didn't stop the problem.

[@schinderiapraemeturus6239]

@@alwaysfreedom9354 seen the same problem with Winchester primers, it's because they use a recipe that suffers from hydroscopic deactivation. You may be able to restore their function by drying them or using active dessicant and pull the moisture out of them. Or you can learn to reload your own primers as I have with a superior composition, I favor SINOXID based recipes. Cheers

[@jeffumbach]

That is why I store all of my primers immediately in sealed ammo cans with desiccant packs. Some people even go as far as to vacuum seal the boxes if they expect to not be using it for a long time.

[@cheekymonkey444]

When I was big enough to see over my dad's workbench, he started explaining what he was doing. I and my younger brother became very interested in hand loading. My dad would send me down to the local Army and Navy to get him a pound of Red Dot and a bag of 7 1/2 shot. I hopped on my bike, and off I went. He's gone now but, if he lived long enough to see the hoarding and the unavailability of components, he would shake his head in disbelief. He never dreamed that there would be shortages and price gouging like there is today. Trouble is, we let it happen.

[@mikhail6518]

That’s what happens when you let blacks and women vote for your future

[@noyb72]

Great breakdown. I'd like to see you include casting bullets. Using scrounged led and casting your own significantly reduces the cost of reloading.

[@russellkeeling4387]

Finding scrap lead and wheel weights is a thing of the past.

[@noyb72]

@@russellkeeling4387 not where I live.

[@thevoyageur2152]

Great vlog. I look at the Equipment like buying tools for the garage. I also look at the process as getting to know your tools and get me in touch with what is really going on when I pull the trigger hunting.

[@EricFialkowski]

In the "before times," I started to pick up reloading components for 9mm to learn reloading. It was hard/impossible to break even with cost per round back then. Doesn't look quite so bad anymore. Plus as you said, I can customize my load (once I feel confident enough.)

[@GarfieldEnjoyer1878]

You could probable only save if you cast your own bullets but that’s a lot more work

[@GarfieldEnjoyer1878]

And if didn’t pay for your lead or paid very little

[@timclaus8313]

@@GarfieldEnjoyer1878 For target work, Berry's plated bullets are quite cheap and usually sold in boxes of 250 or more. Recently picked up some Berrys FMJ .355 bullets that come out to 8 cents per bullet. SO at current prices add 8 cents for the primer and 2 cents for powder, so that comes out to 18 cents per round for practice ammo.

[@GarfieldEnjoyer1878]

@@timclaus8313 I’ll likely use those if I ever do take up 9mm. I actually don’t shoot much of it

[@timclaus8313]

@@GarfieldEnjoyer1878 I use Berrys bullets for several calibers, including 45 Colt (which would also work with 45 ACP). In .452, you save even more per bullet.

[@dpbierman2586]

Thank you for sharing... I bought my last box of ammo in 2001... to me reloadinh is a no brainer as well... love it to feed the rifle what is wants to shoot👍🏻 Great channel

[@noahhorinek]

The main reason why I reload is because of availability of the rounds that I shoot. You can still get 25-06 pretty cheap (compared to other rounds) but it's impossible to find a sub-$60 box of 280 Ackley. I bought cases and bullets but had powder and primers and it's been pretty economical so far. That and I just enjoy doing it, even if I just load 10 rounds for testing

[@ryanharris6045]

It's hard to find .257 Roberts ammunition too! I can load it up cheap and accurate, and keep dad's old rifle doing what it does best. Good luck with your .280 AI and .25 06. Good cartridges.

[@georgepatton9744]

Imagine .338 Win Mag and the cursed 6.8SPC!🤣🤣

[@noahhorinek]

@@georgepatton9744 oh brother I feel sorry for you! Although my local Orscheln had some WAY discounted 338 win mag Nosler TG for about 45 bucks a box because Nosler changed the packaging. They also had 300 H&H, 7mm STW, and 300 SAUM all for 30 bucks a box

[@noahhorinek]

@@ryanharris6045 257 Bob is a cartridge that’ll always interest me but I can’t justify getting one while I have a 25-06, and I’ll always have a 25-06. The cartridge runs in the family 🤩

[@DCSIDPA]

If you're "into" reloading as a hobby, you can forget counting your time. If you're trying to come up with custom loads, you can forget factory ammunition.

[@tonydeaton2890]

I reload mostly frontier era cartridges which were prohibitively expensive even before the shortage. A box of Winchester 45-70 was $50, give or take. I could load it for $20.

[@chrisharris6834]

Have you reloaded 40-82?

[@tonydeaton2890]

@@chrisharris6834 yes. Good cartridge.

[@chrisharris6834]

@@tonydeaton2890 sweet! What press and where did/do you find materials?

[@tonydeaton2890]

@@chrisharris6834 Try buffalo arms co. for bullets, brass and reloading dies. A regular RCBS rock-chucker press is what I use. You can either use black powder or any number of smokeless loads. What kind of rifle is it?

[@chrisharris6834]

@@tonydeaton2890 awesome, thank you for the info. It’s a Winchester model 1886. I was considering using black powder. My shallow research into the gun says that a non chrome bore should use black powder(… but then again, do I trust google? I digress).

[@gm5564]

I was blessed with receiving most of my machines for free or when I picked them up at yard sale mercy deals, reloading has always been cheaper for me. Brass was always free to pick up or was given because nobody wanted it, primers were dirt cheap, I bought my powder and primer years ago, casting bullets or buying jacketed bullets when they were on sale was the best way to go. My average cost to reload 45 ACP, 9mm, 38 / 357, 44 magnum LSW, RN, or FMJ would be around $6 - $9 per 50 rds up to $140 per 1000, I would reuse brass and empty boxes, my competition match grade 223 or 308 would run about $8 - $10 per 20 rds. Now a days I wouldn't consider buying any supplies at these mad max Armageddon prices. I started reloading when I was 16 years old and I it grew on me as a hobby, most people 30 years ago told me it was a waste of time and the cost didn't make up for the time consumed by the operation. I wish I could see what they'd say about all of this now.

[@jamesotis4310]

I’m literally reloading my primers using a primer compound called prime all.

[@justinmurray4652]

Good idea

[@JaredHempfield]

Great video! So true and I agree, its leisure time for me, jamming out in the garage casting boolits and filling ammo cans! Even after a small investment to load your own it pays for itself REAL quick! I started reloading with Lee single stage early last year and have only had to replace the hand primer tool which was my fault. Have loaded 20k rounds of 9mm, 10mm, 45auto, 6.5CM and .223. Only brass I've paid for was some 6.5CM, it's easy when I live a few miles from a few outdoor ranges, picking up brass is my favorite part, I even crouch like a goblin walking along lol, cant bend over for each piece, you gotta do the brass goblin scoot for it or use a grabber. Most people shoot 9mm, have 10 gallons of mostly that and 40S&W to melt down into ingots for scrap. Where .40 goes to die in the furnace here, just shoot 10mm, its not going anywhere and it can handle lead projectile pressure. I harvest all the lead as well and sweeten with pre Victorian pewter, cast a few hundred in an hour then powdercoat. In the beginning it was costing me $0.06 per 9mm, 10mm and 45acp, 25 cents per 12g 00 and 1 oz slugs. Not now with price gouged components. Sportsmans in CC NV has usually had a pound a week for me, always projectiles and other supplies for prep work. After I ran out of small pistol primers since theyve been nonexistent for several months I started reloading spent primers with H-48 corrosive then EPH-20 non corrosive, costing one cent per primer but with 95% success. Started reloading with small and large rifle primers having to buy from small gun shops at $130 a brick! Large rifle primers are gold right now, had to buy a brick from the early 1970's but so far 100 have fired great. I've found my loads to be more accurate and powerful compared to factory, so even if it costed the same I would still load my own!

[@ivobiancucci4528]

Reloading is getting 5 shot group under 1 inch at 200 yards with a Savage Axis non-accutrigger sporter barrel 👍

[@renehernandez9207]

It’s my therapy man, been only doing it for 6 years but keeps me sane. During Covid there was not a lot of supplies but it’s 2023 and it’s better now.

[@BanditZRaver]

If youre reloading 12g or 20g, it will take a long time to pay itself off If youre relaoding something like 28g or .410Bore, its tons cheaper especially that .410 can go up to 1 buck a SHELL. for 1 box of 25 thats 25bucks plus Tax. But as Backfire states it, reloading is a skill, a skill that Commietube doesnt want you to learn, because thats Self-sufficiency Life Style.

[@terrybritton1355]

I do reload our waterfowl loads with ITX tungsten matrix, and it saves us a ton of $$$, especially when one shot will put a duck or goose down in one shot rather than one to knock it down and five to dispatch. It all depends on what you are loading.

[@gusloader581]

You are correct about the criminally high prices for .410 bore shotgun shells. I have never understood the "why for". It is much smaller in case size, wad size, shot weight, powder amount, yet it costs $$$$. In automotive speak it would be like Chevrolet charging the same for a "Vega" as for a Four wheel drive, dual cab, Pick-up truck. I've bought a 20 gauge single-shot to teach the Grandkids how to shoot shotguns. The .410 ammo is too expensive, and easier to miss the target. I own Reloading presses for 12, 16, and 20 gauge. Considering the criminally high prices that the little shop in town wants for a box of Federal 12 gauge, #4 lead shot Pheasant loads , ( $33 for 25 shells ), I have to reload my own ammo.

[@jeffumbach]

I bought a shotshell press specifically for .410 bore and can easily convert it to other gauges, the press itself is the big expense but will have a pretty quick ROI.

[@andyherzfeld9492]

I got into reloading about five or so years ago and it is an absolute eye opener when it comes to ballistics. I now reload for a ton of cartridges. I am sure I reload probably at least five hundred to one thousand rounds a month. I stockpile when I find what I want and start looking when my supplies get to a certain point. If you shoot a lot you will want to be reloading, I started more so for availability of what I wanted to use vs what I could find in loaded ammo.

[@northernoutdooradventures3883]

I have a side business that pays $30 per hour. I would have to take time from the business to reload. With my beginner press kit it takes me 1hour per box. Reloading is not even close to financial worth it.

[@TheREALLibertyOrDeath]

Maybe so but guys that have stockpiles of components from years of reloading are laughing right now at price gouging and ammo shortages

[@gusloader581]

Better to "take time to reload your ammo" than grovel at the feet of the ammo factories / retailers.

[@northernoutdooradventures3883]

@@gusloader581 very true! I have a stash of reloading components but its better to pay the people that are fast at loading ammo and me to do what I do best. Most of my guns shoot factory ammo as good as my hand loads. Right now there isn't any ammo or reloading components so if I shoot its gotta come out of my stash of ammo or components.

[@gusloader581]

@@northernoutdooradventures3883 - Hello. As I was typing during the TV commercials, I was watching an episode of guys who work as Heavy Equipment / Big Rig Tow Truck drivers in the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia. ( The "Coq" highway. Near "Hope" B.C. ). In the winter months those guys work 24/7. On-call all the time from the R.C.M.P.. They would not have time to reload ammo except in the slower summer months. Sometimes we ( I ) forget that some folks do not work 8 hour shift jobs 5 days a week.

[@northernoutdooradventures3883]

@@gusloader581 yeah the side hustle struggle is real. I work 12hrs a day 6 days a week. The rest of my time is for my wife and kids. Reloading is my least favorite hobby so it doesn't make sense for me unless I have to get ammo. But some people really like doing it so I guess it makes sense for them.

[@jonathanmitchell3733]

I think you have really expensive kit there. The scale, and press can really be cheaper versions. $500 should really be more than enough to cover most peeps reloading needs

[@Nick-sx6jm]

Exactly, I bought an RCBS kit for around 300-350 and then bought extra stuff that either was not included or important things that I wanted to upgrade for another 150-200. Unless you want to pump out 500-1000 of rounds a week you will do just fine with 500 bucks worth of stuff or even less if your just doing some expensive hunting rounds like 28 Nosler or wby cartridges.

[@phild8095]

Yah, 500 bucks got me started. Then a few more die sets, a decapping die, a bulge buster kit, then some trays, a trimmer, a deburrer, a gauge block to check the caliper, and then lets reload shotshells, and a few other things and I'm up to about nine bills now. And I am still tumbling my brass by hand in a plastic jar. The next investment is a wet tumbler for about 100 bucks.

[@What-is-happening]

When ammo and reloading supplies are affordable and available I buy both! When things inevitably get tight it’s nice to be able to load whatever you need

[@jimmywilliamson8540]

I’ve never really had the physical space that it takes to reload, I could’ve done it but it would not have been convenient and lots of labels would’ve been necessary to find things. In any case I very much regret getting rid of equipment and not keeping brass. I went to one of the gun shops to prove just being Republican or pro gun doesn’t make you a good person and they were selling 9 mm dirty brass in Ziploc bags of 20 for I believe it was $10. You really do see the lack of character in society when we are in dark times as we are now

[@STS767]

As to the need to change every aspect of your reloading set up, I think you’re about 95% right. I’ve changed almost everything I used to reload, but I still use the same cast-iron O press from Lee, as well as the little priming arm. I would recommend just that part to new reloaders (and it is available by itself).

[@jackbuendgen389]

First! Let's go Brandon!

[@santafecanon]

Good video. I have reloaded several thousand (6-7K maybe more) rounds over 25 years. These are 6.5 Swedish, 30-06, 7 Rem Mag, .270 .40 SW and .357. I shoot on BLM and Natl Forest lands. I load rifles for hunting and distance shooting and shoot hundreds of rounds a year. Bought an entire reloading set up (Dillon press) from an older gentleman who was no longer using it for 20 cents on the dollar which included the very dies I needed. Worth it cost wise? ABSOLUTELY! I dont cost out my time as it is hobby and kind of a meditation. Not everything ones does should be measured on a cost benefit basis. Reloading tech is very interesting not to mention some crazy accuracy I get out of my fine tuned loads and quality rifles.

[@bradsimpson8724]

I reload for a couple hours on Sunday while my wife takes her mom to church, so I don't charge anything for my time, because it's way better than being in church. I only factor the price of brass in when I actually buy fresh brass, not when I'm working with previously-fired stuff. I enjoy the process of reloading, and I use it to manage my inventory in my gun room. I find that since I started dedicating that 2.5-3 hours a week to my gun room, a few things happened. My guns are cleaner and better maintained, my stuff is tidier and more organized, I have a more consistent awareness of my round count(both what each gun has fired, and what's sitting on the shelf ready to go), and the general state of everything. It helped me determine which guns I was actually shooting regularly and which were safe queens that were better off being sold. It also evened out the regularity of my shooting, and because I had a couple hours a week dedicated to logistics, I enjoy my range trips more. The timing also worked out that I was not actively taking time out of my relationship to reload or shop or what have you, which made my wife happier.

[@ReelTimeCapt]

For 223/556 Match Grade Ammo, I save money even in this economy. My press, scales, dies and so on were purchased years ago, and the break even point was passed a long time ago. Plus, I get to enjoy the process of reloading and the great result in accuracy. I've purchased some new brass, but most was bought "once fired" way before the pandemic. Hand down, I will always reload. I also reload 9mm, 300AC Blk Out and 380.

[@thequeensthief5593]

We need a quick update video on this once a year! Thanks for the video.

[@MattDonkin430]

dillon 550C is a great entry level press and I have had mine for over a decade... still use it for single stage match rounds too. Can pump out pistol rounds at 500 rounds an hour too.

[@martincolvill5453]

I bought an RCBS Rock crusher used set with multiple Dies and virtually everything I needed from a pawn shop for $145.00. I did have to buy 3 more dies to cover what I shoot. I've only been reloading for six-months and find it almost like mediation. When primers were non existent I reused old ones.. I'm still experimenting with different powders. Brass is no problem as I volunteer as a RSO at a public range. I'm allowed 3 pounds of brass per shift if I want. I use a rock tumbler from Harbor freight with crushed walnut media and a dash of liquid polishing compound. It cleans up nicely. I'm having fun in my retirement.