The TRUTH About Handloading

[@darrellmayo9066]

I started out reloading and knew nothing about it. I bought books and read them faithfully, got all my equipment and started reloading. I had no teacher but now IAM shooting 1/2" groups at 100 yards. I really feel like I have accomplished something. It has been a wonderful experience for me

[@celowski6296]

I started when 45 got into office. The ingredients came available finally!! Now I try to have a good stash of ingredients. LOVE doing it. Especially when either you can't find your caliber, or you laugh at the price!

[@thecheapshot1065]

How long did you reload and far down the rabbit hole did you go before you got to 3/4 or 1/2in groups. I'm not quite there. A lot of velocity spread. More than case volume differences I suspect. I carefully measure my loads on a cheaper digital scale,. I do use mixed brass and I don't sort my bullets by their weight if they are from the same batch. (Probably my answer right there.). Can that make a 75-100fps difference? Maybe I could see it in a cold bore to 5th shot but on a warm rifle.... I'm triming, cleaning primer pockets. I was using Lee dies and just neck sizing on my 270ai until I got Mt custom made Hornady dies designed around brass fired from my.gun. She shoots great but for me to hit the edge of the whole from the shot before doesn't happen. Not at 100

[@michaeledlin9995]

@@thecheapshot1065 buy you a good scale one fom Harbor freight aint good enoughneither are the calipers. Hornady or Lyman scales, Mititoyo calipers

[@russellkeeling4387]

@@thecheapshot1065 Velocity spread is a normal thing but 75-100 fps seems high. You might try keeping the ammunition somewhere it will remain at a even temperature just before you fire it. Temp can make a big difference. This is a place to start. The groups you shoot can be a simple as movement on your part. I find all my rifles are much more accurate than I am.

[@MrOlgrumpy]

Bitten by the bug and you are benefiting from your efforts.👍🙃

[@WHOTEEWHO]

Gotta watch Ron Spomer! Appreciate the video

[@m4rvinmartian]

Sup Who, nice to see you here.

[@pg981]

WTW in da house! 👊🇺🇸

[@jamespescatore9551]

There's my boy WTW! Gotta keep the hunting/shooting community strong on here.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Thanks again Who-Tee. Are you finding enough components to keep up with your reloading needs? A lot of commenters here are sure frustrated. I'm still living off my stash. Cheers.

[@WHOTEEWHO]

@@RonSpomerOutdoors unfortunately I do not yet reload. I am picking a bad time to get into it I suppose 😆. Taking some classes on reloading here soon.

[@jamespescatore9551]

For me, Handloading is something that I used to do with my father when I was little. I always thought all the powder throwers and scales looked like some mad scientist's lab or something. My dad passed away in 2017 and since then I've been getting back into it, and while my shooting has benefited from handloading, it's also been a way to sort of honor and connect with memories of my dad. Now my son is taking an interest and what a feeling that is. All the best Ron, once again ty for the to tier video.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Thanks James. I hope you and your son build a strong bond over your handloading, shooting, and hunting.

[@jesusyeshuaelelyonelshadai6295]

Amen wow a great tradition to pass on to your boy .. best wishes

[@michaeledlin9995]

My daughter has been a great help. She could do all of it

[@sturisa]

Ron, I remember Larry Potterfield from Midway USA saying the reasons to reload were to save money, improve accuracy, they don't make it anymore and satisfaction for a job well done. You covered all that and then some. I just started listening to your podcast right from the first one called "The Ride", the first story you ever published. I enjoy listening while going for my walks in the woods, you're a good story teller!

[@GunFunZS]

There's also, "they never made this obviously useful load commercially."

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Well, thank you SJ.

[@foubert45]

“I’m Larry Potterfield with Midway USA, and that’s the way it is”

[@sturisa]

@@foubert45 Or thanks for your business!

[@deandeann1541]

@@foubert45 "And that's the way it is on this 23rd day of November 1900 and sixty eight. This is Walter Cronkite with CBS Evening News, Goodnight." Walter was very active in yachting and the US Power Squadron. An old friend of mine's father (who was a Power Squadron admiral among other things) was family friends with Walter, my friend ate with Walter on many occasions growing up. I miss having an anchorman that you can trust.

[@sergeygershtanskiy]

Hi Ron! Many thanks for you and your team from Russia and Russian hunters!!! Thank you for your job and hobby:)

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Our pleasure! Sergey. We loved our Russia hunts and especially the Russian people with whom we hunted.

[@ianb4801]

One I would add to your list is “Preservation of Rare Weapons”. Years go (maybe 1970s), I met a shooter at the club and he had a magnificent heavy weapon, based on the Mauser Magnum action and in calibre .416 Rigby. I’ve since read that this action was John Rigby’s action of choice for big game rifles and he may have even built this weapon himself. Beautiful carving on metalwork too, bears as I remember and I believe the weapon was bought, possibly “mysteriously” from a source in Arabia. But my point here is that this shooter just loved taking this rife out to use it. But to be gentle on the weapon, he only fired very low loads and only with the lead projectiles he cast himself. Accuracy just didn’t matter to him but just enjoyed using the weapon and sharing that enjoyment with others.

[@thomjarman]

Here in the UK we would not call that a "weapon" because it triggers the woke brigade. That 416 was a "firearm" owned with no intent to kill or harm anyone or anything. A weapon on the other hand!

[@ianb4801]

@@thomjarman the only country in the world that applauds the (occasional) success of its national shooting teams - when said team members are not allowed to own their “firearms” within the borders of the country - or even train in the country!

[@kurtwpg]

The other thing I would say is you can buy rifles in more obscure cartridges confidently, if it's the cartridge you want.

[@russellkeeling4387]

Preservation of rare weapons is one reason many people reload. Especially now. I am having trouble finding dyes for a 50-70 Sharps though. I may need to get the specs and have them machined locally. Brass is available but extremely expensive. The new law our government passed makes it difficult for collectors that hope to profit from firearms so I might as well start using that old Sharps. It is in functional order and the serial # is 1279.

[@zachbinkley7150]

I'm keeping my 250-3000 and 300 savage Model 99s going every fall because of reloading. And I bought 6.5-284 and 280AI with no intention of ever shooting factory ammo. I haven't bought factory ammo for 20 years or more

[@kevinblanton7567]

I’m with you Ron,you do have more satisfaction hunting with your own hand loads.

[@Chris_24]

You hit the nail on the head Ron. If you are on the fence about reloading, get a fast twist .223 Remington and a starter reloading kit. There are so many bullet options, you will be amazed.

[@robertrogish1038]

After the Korean War, my Dad got his gunsmithing license and found he needed a steady income - as jr. higher, Dad showed my brothers and me how to handload on an old Herters turret reloading press. His reloading manual was a Lyman Second edition. Thankfully, money grew on trees for me and my brothers that we enjoyed handloading more than shooting. Love your channel and your gentlemanly manner.

[@solomongrundy9735]

A lot of the calibers I shoot aren't really available in factory ammo, not for any reasonable price, if at all. Try finding .577/450.

[@416loren]

or 41 Swiss

[@MagnumMike44]

I've been handloading since 1987 and it's a hobby that I've always loved. It's tough to find components these days mainly bullets and primers, probably because ammo manufacturers have been using those components to keep up with the increased demand and fix the ammo shortages we've seen for the last few months.

[@WARXDEVILXALAN]

I load Slug, Buckshot and birdshot in my 20ga and 12ga also reload for my .44Mag! Handloading offers better performing ammunition with the unique components that factory ammo doesnt use. You save a ton of money (after you are set with everything you need.) & you get to kill something with YOUR OWN creation.

[@matttomlinson3899]

Yep, spot on Ron. Reloading isn't hard, its worth while and enjoyable. I've found the love for my old Parker Hale Safari Deluxe chambered in .375 Winchester just because I've learnt to reload. Plus the fact that ammo here in Australia is so expensive for it. Thanks for the vids

[@mofatjippyfransisco713]

My Dad bought me a full RCBS set , at 12 years old...with 7mm Rem Mag/44 Mag/30-30 Winchester dies. He was a shooter, but never reloaded...so I started on my own...reading my Speer reloading manual cover to cover before even starting. One of the best memories I could ever have, even my Dad jokingly closing his eyes before firing his 336C Marlin with my handloads 😃

[@mattevans-koch9353]

One warning for those just getting started in hand loading-you may become addicted to it. I spent many hours hand loading for my 7mm Mauser and 7mm Rem Mag many years ago. Every Saturday afternoon was spent shooting all of the various combinations of bullet, powder, case and primer I loaded during the week day evenings. As Ron mentioned, you may end up spending more because you are shooting more, but what a great way to spend your time getting to know your firearms. Thank you Ron for this episode.

[@jamesgullo8240]

Suddenly you realize 4 hours have passed and $200 is now in the berm behind your targets!

[@lylewalters909]

I can't think of anything better to get my kids n grandkids addicted to lol.

[@mikebeddingfield2144]

@@jamesgullo8240 🤣 that would be me but I'm going to start hand loading any way

[@Intimidator82]

Funny you mention that. I've been reloading my .223 for years, but recently started working up loads for my 7x57 and 7mm rem mag too! The 7x57 is a Brno and it's a Czechoslovakian Mauser. It was my first centre fire I bought 25 years ago. I'm never selling it!

[@mikebeddingfield2144]

Just think 200 years from now a archeologist will be excavating some hill side and come to the conclusion it was the sight of executions and in reality it was just a place some hillbillies used to sight in their hunting rifles and drink beer in Alabama 🤣

[@firstjohn3123]

When I started, there was minimal ammunition available for the 338 Lapua, nor any load data. I could load for $2.00 / round. Ordering was twice that, with no bullet selection. Had to be self-taught, but the reloading manuals really do a great job.

[@doubled3983]

Hello from Oklahoma! Good Video! I got into hand loading about 1973. First it was for shotguns. Later rifle and pistols. I remember the first time I took an animal with a cartridge I made. It is a good feeling. Now I'm the old curmudgeon at the range that picks up brass and Empty shotgun shells. Thanks for the video!👍👍👍👍

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

So you're that guy scrounging on the range! I have to hustle to beat you to them.

[@joelmcmahan7386]

Reloading is the one thing about shooting I wish I had gotten into years ago. Thanks Ron, for years of good hunting and outdoor adventures you have shared with myself and others who enjoy the great outdoors, a good story teller, hunter, shooter and entertainer as I’ve ever watched. Good shooting and gods speed to the family and fans of Ron S 🎥💯👍

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Many thanks, Joel. Glad you've enjoyed.

[@MrTacklebury]

Great vid. I started loading 22 years ago and have loved it. I load for 15 calibers in 42 firearms and enjoy doing it. I'm very jealous too, you have the exact press I've been saving up to get. ;) Also lets you load for no longer available calibers like my .40-60 Marlin. ;)

[@Selkirk69]

In my M70, I used to load 200gr Nosler Partitions coming out at 2600fps. I now use the same bullet but with ##.# grs of H4350 that kicks them out at a strong, but not outer edge, 2725fps.I get 6-7 reloads on my cases (WW) but I load once fireds for my hunting excursions. I save a good chunk of money, have a load/velocity that I can't get commercially, and the whole shebang is fun and rewarding.

[@Jeff_Seely]

Amen Ron! I agree with all your reasons. I agree that reloading is extremely fun and self-gratifying, even fun!

[@johnoneill6161]

I've been loading sine 1966 and I still use my RCBS Jr. press I bought when I came home from Viet Nam. Now that I'm old and feeble I shoot cast lead boolets, loaded down to reduce recoil. Casting is a good way to get more tools and deeper into shooting too.

[@gerry6.8]

Thanks Ron, I love the process in finding the perfect load, and then another, and another and so on. I believe Weatherby developed a special load for the 30-378 using Hammer bullets because they were able to actually supply them and not be on backorder. I would love to try Hammer bullets for a few different rifles so I hope they make it here into Canada sometime.

[@30Huckleberry]

Johnny’s reloading bench and bolt action reloading are great KZbin resources. They got me started.

[@paststeve1]

Great video Ron! The best group I EVER shot with my .270 was with handloads. Five holes all touching that I covered with a quarter. Then I harvested a nice 10pt whitetail with that loading at 330yds. Schweet!

[@tonywoconish6695]

🗣Praise the Lord and pass the .270 ammo Rev. 🤠😇

[@paststeve1]

@@tonywoconish6695 Amen!

[@allthingsconsidered3211]

Hand loadibg is a must for all new shooters. Im young. 30. Started few years back. Absolutely no regrets. Especially during shortages. Stock diff primers and powders and you can load for almost any new cart + brass, wild cats. Too much fun

[@wiregrassga]

I find handloading a relaxing pass time. Taking game with your own loads has it's own hard to describe satisfaction. Increased accuracy is a plus. I have a Ruger 77 in .30-06 bought in 1981 that just would not shoot well with any factory load I tried. My first hand loads with 4064 and a Nosler BT made it into a consistent under MOA shooter. Been a handloader for almost 60 years.

[@guns4funfreedomkeeper999]

When I first started handloading the man that helped me get started said “You really don’t save any money handloading. You just shoot a lot more”. Can’t go wrong with that. Highly recommend.

[@russellkeeling4387]

I am a fan of the 7x57 and have two custom made rifles in that caliber. Over the years I have had to take all the information from my loading books and using my own judgement come up with loads that can get the most from my rifles. I do load more powder than my books state but I don't have any signs of high pressure now days. I don't recommend this unless you are experienced.

[@donaldslayton2769]

Commercial 10mm is usually downloaded also

[@dwarden3]

When I started shooting 44 mag I spent about $50 for 50 rnds. Now I spend about $8 for 50 rnds after reloading.

[@mikelong9638]

Great video Ron! One caution to new handloaders, I once heard the comment (and have found it to be true). "Handloads can make a good rifle shoot better, but handloads can never make a bad rifle shoot good." Thanks again.

[@adamlong54]

I disagree sir lol I am the proud owner of several bastard children firearms that now shine and make me proud since hand loading them. Factory ammo just don't do it in them. Outta the box factory ammo really bad. Changed scope still not great. Handload it now hole in hole at 100 yards and 1" groups at 300 yrds.

[@gimpyRW]

I started hand loading at the suggestion of my palliative Dr. He told me that it would be great physical and occupational therapy for my bad left hand and arm as well to keep my mind active (I have dementia and am losing my memory). Then I decided to try and reload for better accuracy and, for my wife lighter recoil on her 30-06, it worked great. She took a pronghorn at 230 yards. Then when she bought me a .460 Weatherby Mag I looked at the cost of factory loads and decided that I hadn't choice but to reload, I've been called crazy when it took 60 rounds of ammo before I felt that the gun was broken in and I had best load for what I was hunting, no way could I afford do that with factory loads. Next cartridge to work on is my wife's .45-70. I also reload for the shotgun in 20, 16, and 12gauge.

[@garrettforchrist2700]

Excellent video! I started hand-loading a little over a year ago! I can't wait to see your series on hand-loading!🇺🇲✝️🇺🇲

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Thanks 👍

[@shawnwells5719]

No, Ron, Trapdoor 45-70 pressures are down around 25,000 psi. Pressures for the 1895 Marlin are around 40,000 psi and the Ruger No. 1 can handle 50,000+.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Thanks Shawn. I knew the pressure's were low, but didn't remember as low as 25,000 psi for the trapdoor.

[@David_Quinn_Photography]

just started reloading with my go to ammo being cheaper to reload now I think its time to just start learning and its enjoyable so as long as its cheaper to do so I will continue reloading.

[@ZachBrimhall]

Picked up a rare couple boxes of 45-70 300 grain the other day. Hadn't seen these in almost a year. $3.25 a cartridge.

[@KathrynLiz1]

I once had a Brno ZKK600 in 7 x 57 and I worked up loads for that pushing a 150gr bullet at just on 3000fps with no pressure issues at all. In fact I test loaded the same case about 20 times and it was still in 'spec'..... The potential of the case was never approached in the past... That little Brno shot 3/4" groups all day..... Wish I still had it...

[@eddiexoc8430]

Another great video

[@Rushshooting67913]

Handloading is a great hobby but I enjoy it to get the best performance and accuracy out of my cartridges. I shoot 338 federal and with a 160 Barnes ttsx and h322 I’m getting 3050fps. Been really fond of the Winchester StaBall 6.5 in the 7mm08. 3200fps with a 120, 2910 with a 150and 2800 with a 165. Handloading allows you to get peak performance at a cheaper price.

[@echogrovefarm7339]

Yes I enjoy the art of handloading; have been since I was 12. I started with my $9.95 12 ga Lee Loader and still do. I load several calibers often with cast bullets of my own making as well. I handload every shot in my muzzleloaders!

[@kurtwpg]

Varmint ammo is really unreasonably priced. When you handload, it's as cheap as anything else. And on the other end, you can also go with heavier bullets than any factory load. (7mm08 can go a lot higher than 150 grains)

[@iancurrie8844]

First useful video in a while! Thanks!

[@charlesperry1051]

I have loaded for years. I just picked up a new to me rifle in 6mm Remington. Try finding that ammo! I have brass and will soon be loading for it.

[@michaelwilson9986]

I missed this at the time.. Ya did good Sir

[@MrOlgrumpy]

Trapdoor Springfield 45/70 loading in the 7th Hornady manual is 25,000CUP, MAX Not 45,Like you,I'm getting older [everyday] and double check all my data before a reloading session.Yes I load for my 45/70 Martini,just a little above trapdoor pressures and it gets the job done. 🙃

[@leonardjanda6181]

What’s going’s on with primers, if these companies keep this stuff up I’m going back to fishing, and screw the sport of shooting, it’s absolutely screwed up like never before

[@m4rvinmartian]

Primers take up basically no space in inventory. Ammo companies are hoarding them, and get top priority with the primer manuf. Even with a split, 90% go to ammo makers.

[@ChristopherKnN]

There is supposedly a new primer manufacturer opening in Texas. Hopefully they don't contract out completely to the manufacturers.

[@davidbrock1565]

More KZbin gold Ron. Keep the videos coming.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Thanks David. Will try.

[@mortgagepensionstrategy8208]

Great video Ron. My two favourite cartridges are the 284 Winchester and the 264 Winchester Magnum. Handloading is by far the best option in those cartridges. I get a great deal of satisfaction building the loads and harvesting game when I put the components together myself.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Right on

[@The10thManRules]

I reload everything I shoot; 380, 9mm, 223, 300 Blackout, 300 HAM'R, and 12ga. I really enjoy reloading.

[@vdog4799]

There is a satisfaction in knowing how things work. Really love handloading. My favorite part is the loading and book reading part. I like it better than the shooting. Just like the science I guess

[@danielhenkel8195]

Guns & Ammo did an article about reloading and listed everything they thought you would need to begin saving money reloading. I added up the cost of everything they recommended (Midway USA)and the total, at todays prices, was ofer $1,200.00. not counting brass, bullets, primers, manuals and powders. Starting as a beginner the basic tools are a scale, press, bullet puller, dies, case measurer , primer pocket cleaner (large or small), loading block, case trimmer (bevel case mouth), powder funnel, (large or small), case head holder for your single stage (beginners) press, primer turner over, powder trickler, case cleaner, cleaning media and I'm sure there are other things in my reloading kit that I can't remember to include. Once you acquire all the basic tools and then all the extra parts & pieces, such as stuck case removers. cartridge gauges, calipers, not to mention cartridge cases to put your finished cartridges in, loading tables, etc, etc. you can acquire quite a fortune in loading equipment ("STUFF") before you can count all the money your saving by reloading. BUT. it's a rewarding hobby resulting in shrinking groups, known ballistics and knowing that when you pull the trigger something's going to be headed to the freezer or that hole in the target just got 50% smaller.

[@keithalbrecht4785]

Well done Ron, Couldn't have said it any better! The big thing I've found with hand loading, it give you better confidence in your shoot!

[@RichardEnglander]

Great stuff Ron. You are the hunting uncle I never had, love your content. I understand it ok because I studied some physics at university, but the concepts about barrel resonance, bullet speed, barrel flex, muzzle movement is fascinating. It can explain the sweet spots in loads, why some loads group so well but a few grains more and it all goes wrong. All that suff. Fancy doing a video about all that? Tight lines and happy hunting good man

[@TexanUSMC8089]

It would be great to be Ron's neighbor.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Many thanks Richard. Yes, I hope to cover harmonics and nodes one of these days. So many topics, so little time!

[@squatchwatch5237]

Man I feel the same way about Mr Spomer. I've learned so much the past couple of years through him and especially here recently with all the educational videos 👍

[@thecheapshot1065]

I broke one of the reloading rules and I switch primers to a magnum primer and a different brand for large rifle Magnum and when I shot my first shot using the same near Max or at Max load with the new primer the pressure spike was so high it seized my firearm. I had to take it to the gun store where they had to remove the barrel to get the bolt out

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Glad your barrel hung together and you're still with us.

[@thecheapshot1065]

Thank you Ron. I got to admit the fact that you replied to one of my comments has got me as giddy as a schoolgirl.

[@thecheapshot1065]

Love the podcast

[@montaego]

first there was the reloading kit, then the electronic powder measure followed by expensive calipers, bushing bump neck sizing dies, expander mandrels, little crow trimmers, ultra micrometer seating dies...and the annealer. Not sure I'm saving money, but definitely improving accuracy, shooting more and having fun. Tools are fun. Thanks Ron.

[@timthorson52]

I think there's an investment cost for all the things you need. It should pay off, eventually, but it may be a take a thousand or more rounds to do so. It'll likely never pay off if you calculate the time it takes you to reload compared to spending that time earning money and buying factory stuff, but you probably wouldn't be spending that time at a job anyway.

[@cw2a]

Guess Im late! 😝😝. Rewatching now!! Great as always?? Started in 1976. Its a daily affair. I love it.

[@halfdollar86]

I have found I love reloading as much as shooting.

[@ericwiitala5407]

I would love to handloaod. Problem is I have no space, and coming up with the upfront cost to start is tough. But it's something I'd really would like to do.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Space shouldn't be an issue, Eric. You can rig up a pine 2x6 press mount with 2x4 legs reinforcing a kitchen table, student desk, even a bar stool. I know because I've done it. Press, scale, and small tools can be stored in a cardboard box in closet, garage, etc.

[@xzqzq]

I enjoy casting & reloading. Been doing it @ 20 yrs . Forget ' saving money '. After buying presses, molds, etc, the best you are gonna do is more for your money. It becomes a hobby unto itself, the guns are simply test beds for the latest handhold. My cast pistol & shotgun loads do OK, my cast rifle handloads suck: factory rounds vastly more accurate. If you want to try reloading, keep the costs down. A Lee Loader works great, if very slow.

[@parvaflorum]

Please mention Custom Cartridge Inc. the next time that you talk about hammer bullets or custom rounds. He has been at the forefront of copper bullets for 40 years.

[@csipawpaw7921]

I started to hand load back in the early 70s when I discovered the factory 7mm Mauser ammo did not work well in my old 1895 Chilean Mauser. My hand loads were much better. I then improved my M1 carbine accuracy and functional reliability with slightly hotter loads (between 2000-2100 fps). My loading then expanded to custom-tailored loads for my two brother-in-laws 35 Remington and 8mm Mauser rifles. They loved to deer hunt with my custom loads. But I quit when I moved to Texas due to my workload. I retired in 2013 and three years ago I started reloading again. But this time I kept it simple with a Lee Precision 80180 Breach lock, hand press kit hand loader. I find it relaxing and useful as my son has a 458 Socom which is expensive to shoot with factory ammo. I just wanted to say you can go large or small based on your needs, finances, and situation. Just be careful. Use a set of pocket-size electronic measuring scales (they are cheap) and not just a scope measure and don't push the loadings too hot and you'll save money and have fun. I'm looking forward to teaching my grandson.

[@dr.froghopper6711]

Trying to find the components for 35 Remington has been very very difficult!

[@jaystephens2603]

Great video for sure Ron. Pretty amazing the knowledge you have. I’m definitely gonna get into hand loading. Thanks again Jay

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Thanks Jay. I know next to nothing about nuclear reactors. And computer software/applications are as opaque as lead.

[@jaystephens2603]

@@RonSpomerOutdoors 🤣I’m with you there!

[@7989maw]

Started to get better performance out of my 7mag. Shooting 175 partition around 3000fps and 160 accubond around 3100fps. Then discovered obscure calibers and shoot a 30-338 winmag

[@404nitro]

Great video! I own several guns I simply could not afford to shoot, especially these days, if I didn't handload. I've been loading for 40 years now. I'd have been broke 100 times over if I had fired factory loads all these years.Years back when all factory ammo was full of "blue sky" it was quite easy to beat it with handloads as far as velocity. Now that so many have their own chrono, factory ammo has had to tighten up and come close to advertised specs to avoid all the fraud lawsuits that would come. I was fortunate to have a chrono before the majority of folks did and it was clear factory ammo was nowhere near as fast as they claimed it was.

[@sha6mm]

I have reloaded for 40 plus years because I like to shoot and I hunt with such popular caliber’s 6mm Rem. .264 Win Mag, & 300 H&H Mag. Do I save money 💰 no I just shoot more. If you shoot 28ga in volume you need to reload it. TC and Shoot Straight

[@rudolphferdinand3634]

I started handloading in 1/1990 after buying a 300 Weatherby magnum rifle because the cost of 300 Weatherby magnum ammo was beyond my budget. Annealing anyone? 30-06AI with 180 grains bullet from 1.5 grains more of IMR 4350/H4350 200 fps more 24" barrel.

[@comentedonakeyboard]

I wonder if Shakespeare had one of those new fashionable firesticks 🤔

[@Eric--zs6um]

Love to handload. Used to do groundhog matches and was always loading for .243 out to 800yds. The Steven's model 200 is a sleeper with just a couple mods. Now I still load for 25-06, I have passed this knowledge onto others. My rewards now come from those folks and their successes. It's been a blast. Thank you Sir. Much respect.

[@curlyyoder]

53 gr. IMR 4350 with 87 gr. or 90 gr Sierra PSP and HPBT...Ruger M-77 heavy barrel...been using that load since '76. Red mist prairie dogs...NOT fur friendly!...mule deer...whitetail and even elk...chrono bit over 3200 fps...25 ROCKS! (Get a 220 Swift if you gonna harvest fur tho!)

[@Eric--zs6um]

@@curlyyoder bicentennial Ruger 77 varmint 220 swift using 50 vmax 37.2 rl15 sweet rifle. It wears a steel Weaver t16

[@Eric--zs6um]

@@curlyyoder 48.8 of Imr 4451 110 eldx , savage 110 f has Krieger 1/9 twist with factory spec chamber. Also 87gr tnt 54.5 imr 4451 for groundhogs.

[@kevinoneill41]

Remember Blackpowder and modern smokeless are completely different do not mix them up. Putting Smokeless powder in a black powder gun will result in catastrophic failure

[@gilream]

Hey Ron, I've been hand loading for 30 years. For me hand loading is the pursuit of excellence. The work itself takes total concentration and is good therapy and in the end I feel that I get the most satisfaction out of my equipment that way. Love your videos sir....been a fan of yours for many years.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Many thanks gilream. I hope you continue to enjoy your therapy for another 30 years.

[@jerryhammack1318]

Rather reload ! Love my odd cartridges .218 bee .17 rem fireball , .25-20! Also shooting a lot of .357 magnum! Which is what I got into reloading . Next came the .220 swift . No factory ammo available 😢! I could find .22-250 all day! I love that ruger model 77 in .220 swift! First rifle I was ever able to make 1000yd shots with. No coyote or prairie dog was safe! The most aggravation was the original. 17 Remington . Case neck separation and blown primers ! Some cartridges are at the max from the factory! Be careful and shoot respectfully!

[@ChristopherKnN]

44 mag got me into handloading. I miss being in South Dakota. I love my 17 Fireball and 220 Swift too.

[@VincitOmniaVeritas7]

Even if hand loads were never more accurate or cheaper, I would still do it because it’s so much fun.

[@pabuffa]

Reloader here. Reloading is the exact reason I finally choose the 30-06. You can do so much with it.

[@linkbond08]

Yeap from 60gr to 250gr and from subsonic to full power rounds, my 30-06 is like a Swiss army knife in rifle form 😂

[@leonardjanda6181]

You’re correct

[@dr.froghopper6711]

I concur! But my shoulders were trashed and couldn’t take the recoil impulse of 30-06, unfortunately. It was my choice for 30+ years but old military injuries required a shoulder replacement. I only get one.

[@TrapperScottyAlaskan]

This bullet is a great round for learning and understanding reloading. Baseball, hot dogs, apple pie and 30-06

[@GARDENER42]

.270 for me - loads from 70-170gr with a 1:8 twist barrel.

[@ianriordan6382]

Thanks Ron, it's also great therapy. During the awful 2019/2020 Australian bushfires the smoke was so bad that most of us in the south east of OZ were stuck inside. I spent a week of holidays trimming 44 special cases into 44 Colt, resizing 22 Hi-power and loading other calibres.

[@GunFunZS]

First I've heard of 22 hi power. Is this one of those not-a-military-cartridge calibers?

[@davidbartch8917]

Well if you just by the handloading books you get a better Idea of how a cartridge / gun perform before you buy and maybe you will spend less on guns. Maybe?

[@m4rvinmartian]

😅😂😆

[@mr.noneyabidness]

My dad had me pulling cases out of the tumbler and loading the lube pad at about 3 years old. That will be 40 years ago this year, and now my daughter helps me. Between him and my uncle, I have produced a lot of rounds over the years. It is a valuable skill to have, and like you mentioned, it's fun. We lost my uncle a few years back, but I know he's still reloading for his range trips with Jesus. Have fun everyone and stay safe.

[@larrybassett5559]

Nicely done Ron, been handloading since the age of 12, and will continue to do so. 😉

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Right on!

[@bradleyhughes6853]

I haven't done it yet, but I'm looking to make up a 30-30 AI, want to get a little more out of the 336 and develop something around the 160 FTX bullet, maybe even the new Barnes 30-30 bullet.

[@paulreid2223]

If you've got a high capacity AR platform , you'll probably not notice the difference ; if you have a bolt action, the experimental options are many !!!!! If you have components and dies , you can load up a storm .... Besides, it's FUN !!!!

[@johnmccarthy6999]

Savings? This is an argument of relativity and application. It depends on the all the elements of what one uses to define savings. Possibility of improved accuracy for sure. Good Commentary. We get what we measure.

[@brianhoxworth3881]

The cheapest way to get into reloading is with the LeeLoader. All you need is components , a block of wood and a plastic hammer. These are fairly slow, but very practical. Many obsolete calibers die sets can be found on ebay. I have one in 222 rem mag.

[@ChristopherKnN]

I used one of those for exactly 10 rounds of 44 mag before I bought a press and dies. That was over 20 years an countless numbers of rounds ago. I handload all mine except shotgun and rimfire.

[@brianhoxworth3881]

@@ChristopherKnN for any volume a press is much better, loading a box or two, the lee does work .

[@kenlansing1216]

I was in a local gunsmith shop when a farmer came in and asked if the gunsmith was finished with his rifle. The gunsmith went into the back and returned with a nice Browning A-Bolt in .22-250. "What do I owe you?" asked the farmer. "Nothing. There wasn't a thing wrong with it." "Whattya mean? Not only did I miss the coyote but I had to beat the bolt open with a 2x4." The gunsmith's eyes narrowed in suspicion and his tone of voice changed: "Well what kind of ammo have you been feeding it?" "Oh, just some roll-your-owns." "Bill? Did you use reloads from Bill? "Yeah, how did you kn--?" "Don't you shoot ANY reloads from Bill. He reloads everything WAY too hot." The gunsmith sold him a box of Federal Fusions and the farmer departed.

[@kevinoneill41]

Well I would say that farmers proof tested that their rifle. Real good. Don't shoot other peoples reloads.

[@troy9477]

The guy the locals call Dynamite Dave, who somehow miraculously has all his digits. But his hands are badly scarred.

[@twolak1972]

You will never get the absolute last drop of accuracy out of any rifle UNLESS you handload, no 2 guns shoot exactly alike and each has a load that it will shoot better than another. THE FUN is in finding that load, once you,ve found it that's when REAL ACCURACY begins.

[@armedmariner]

Greater bullet selection. Amen brother. I load a 200gr round nose Nosler in a 308. People don’t understand why I would put that big a bullet in a 308 case. But I know that load works so well on hogs - like a hammer. I have the choice. I exercise it. God bless America!

[@petefromhillcountry3268]

I started reloading for my Marlin 336 in 35 Remington. It was almost impossible to find ammo for it, and reloading solved the problem. From there, I added the 30-06, the 308, and the 7MM Rem Mag. Didn't have trouble getting ammo for those calibers, but the temptation of improved accuracy over commercial loads was too much to resist. I suppose it saves money, although I tend to blow any alleged savings on more reloading supplies which are rising in price just like commercial ammo, so there might be some debate there. With all that said, would I recommend hand loading to others as a means for more accurate rounds for your favorite gun? Heck yeah. Would I recommend is a way to save money? Uh...well, uh...heck yeah.

[@joelclark2130]

It's funny you mention those cartridges, I reload for the 45 / 70, and me and my shooting partner are currently working on a 6.5 x55 Swede. Maybe someday7 by 57 Mauser

[@thomasdaum1927]

Thanks Ron , that was probably the best advertisement for reloading I have ever seen ! The satisfaction of doing it yourself is a great reward and making wildcats is so much fun. I have done 5 wildcat’s now the most recent is a 6 x 45 ( 6mm x 223 ) a wonderful 200 yd coyote cartridge , a flat shooting pelt friendly round that is very easy to form and load ! Please do an episode with a word about this cartridge. Thanks again Ron.

[@johnshields9110]

Thanks for the excellent point of mentioning 'throat size' right up front. As people will discover, it varies rifle brand to brand, and maybe even rifle to rifle, generating excessive pressure sometimes. For Thomas, I gained a lot of satisfaction researching, sizing, testing and producing the best pattern shooting loads for by 22 250, 243, 280, and my 300 Mag. My best hunting buddies took more interest in their rifles too, which created friendly competitions, and further education for us all to produce smaller target patterns on our rifles. Reloading allowed me to shoot many more rounds for the money as compared to Retail. Peace to all!

[@hotramen5952]

hand loading is addictive, and bullet casting is even more addictive.

[@daleswier8429]

This was a good video, Ron. Thanks for a nice introduction to the reloading world. Would you be interested in doing a video on what it takes for beginners to get started in reloading ammo? It's kind of hard to kn ow exactly what to buy and not buy. Thanks again.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Those handloading manuals will explain all the tools and steps. Easy.

[@daleswier8429]

That sounds pretty darn self explanatory. Thanks for the reply, Ron. Best regards and keep up the good work.

[@bigcatfish5029]

Hand loaders , ham operators, fly fisherman , AND CAR NUTS , ARE JUST PLAIN CRAZY.

[@dougi1967]

Great timing! Punching out old primers as I listen to your musings. First time reloader here. 30-06 and 6.5 CM gonna be my first calbers. I don't have anything but the primer puncher tool and a brass tumbler but that's a start.

[@RonSpomerOutdoors]

Rock on!

[@walterwjr947]

I really enjoyed the video. I found a sale on a Lee starter set almost a year ago, but I have not been able to find find any primers, none. Does anyone have an idea where I can find any type of primers. I would like to make my first round, soon.

[@WillyK51]

One of my biggest satifaction came, when around 1983 got a 1917 Enfield in 30-06, First big cal rifle. Went to store and bought 150 grns Rem,Win,Federal cartriges, 3-4" paterns, back to store 165 grns Rem,Win,Fed. same paterns. Ok reload ordered/bought dif bullets from Speer,Sierra,Horndy, IMR 4350 , CCI200 primers. and built up accordingly, Eventually hit the sweet spot with 165 Grns Speer Grand Slams at under 1MOA, I dont care if it isn't max vel, If I can shoot the eye out a Deer at 100 Yds I dont need more omph

[@waynesilva9157]

Relaoding is independence. I shoot 7 MM 08 and use the plentiful 308 case just by necking it down TO 7MM . I make ultra light loads for My girlfriends lever action 3030 just for plinking or woodchuck garden removal. . Thanks for the video.

[@m4rvinmartian]

2:45 Lol, like we have a choice in primers right now.

[@andy347495]

Ron, Shhhh, we don't need anymore reloaderd buying the already scarce components.

[@allthingsconsidered3211]

Theyre going to new cartridges with less free bore, making the rifles less picky for accuracy. So two paths, 1) Hand loads (always gunna fond a good load) 2) go with newer carts, almost always a good factory load. (Not to picky)

[@retirednavy8720]

I used to have a William Evans double rifle in 450/400 3 1/4 nitro. Back then the only source of ammo was Kynoch and it was $11 a round. I could handload it for $3 a round. That's a no brainer.