{ How To } Reloading center fire pistol ammo

['73 H1 Triple]

Here's step by step instruction ( with pics ) on how to load center fire ammo. I'm doing .357 plinking ammo . The press is a single stage RCBC Rock Chucker, part of the Master Kit I got about 17 years ago.

No cliffs, details are too important to skim over. Also, safety glasses would be good to wear at all times.


Click the pictures for large view.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4674.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4674.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4675.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4675.jpg)

Above is the once fired cases, a set of reloading dies and in the orange case, shell holders.

Notice the titanium ring on the left die. If you have titanium nitride or carbide insert resizing dies, you do NOT have to lube the cases for resizing.

Pick the correct size shell holder ( from the chart and place that in the press ram. Screw in the resizing die until it almost touches and resize you cases.

Check for overall length after resizing. Trim and deburr if necessary.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4676.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4676.jpg)

Next step is to make a slight bell in the case opening. All you need is just enough for the bullet to start. The left and middle cases are belled while the right case is resized only.

Also during this time, check your cases for any defects ( cracks etc ).
If in doubt, throw it out :yes: ( like the case below- the end looks funny and it got tossed)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4681.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4681.jpg)

Using a primer pocket brush, clean the primer pocket to remove any burnt residue from the previous primer.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4677.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4677.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4678.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4678.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4679.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4679.jpg)

Above is the easiest way I've found to load the primer tool. Open pack to the required amount ( I usually do no more than 50 primers myself ), place the tray over it and while holding them together, turn it over. Remove primer package and make sure all are facing the correct way ( explosive primer compound UP ).
( note-these are large pistol primers which are not correct for .357 cases-- I primed some .44 mag cases )

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4682.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4682.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4686.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4686.jpg)

After you have verified the correct powder, weight of charge for the bullet weight, throw and adjust the charge until it weighs correctly on the scale.

I have found the best way to get a more consistent charge on my powder throw is to "click" the handle twice ( lightly ) where it picks up the powder charge.

I put the primed, bell case under the powder throw and place a charge. I check ever 10th charge on the scale. If it varies , I dump those previous 10 and do it again.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4683.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4683.jpg)

I always work from one tray to another. My primed, belled cases are in the blue tray. I pick one up, place it under the powder throw, place and charge and it goes in the wooden tray. This way if they are handled, they get powder. :thumbs:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4684.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4684.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4685.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4685.jpg)

Look into each and every case for the same powder level. If it doesn't look right, dump the powder back in the powder throw and do it again. A missing/light charge could lodge a bullet in the barrel and the next round fired could blow up the gun. A double charge could blow up the gun in your hands. Neither is a good thing :nono:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4687.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4687.jpg)

Now you will be seating bullets. The main die section height controls the crimping of the bullet and the threaded portion controls the bullet height ( and overall length)

Too much crimp with smash/crinkle the case and not enough crimp will let the bullet move in the case. In the case of a revolver, too light a crimp will allow the bullet during the firing of the other rounds and it may jam the cylinder ( keep it from turning )

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/th_DCP_4688.jpg (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4688.jpg)
Here we are after loading 50 rounds

Be safe, have fun and enjoy
Jeff

[marko138]

This thread is an ENORMOUS let down when you cant view the pics. FML.

[racedoll]

What kind of bench are you using for this? I'm looking for ideas.

['73 H1 Triple]

What kind of bench are you using for this? I'm looking for ideas.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/DCP_1705A.jpg

I made the bench myself and designed it so it comes apart easily. ( I made it when I lived at my other house and knew we were going to purchase a different home)

The top is a solid core door about 30" deep and 60" long. The frame is made of 2x4 sides with six 4x4 posts. The posts sit 1-5/8" ( actual thickness of a 2x4) below the top 2x4 with a 2x4 screwed down into the top of the 4x4. This way the top is screwed from the bottom so there are no fasteners from the top.

The shelving is made from 5/4 x 8 white pine.

Would you like me to draw up dimensions of mine?

Jeff

[Adeptus_Minor]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/DCP_1705A.jpg

I made the bench myself and designed it so it comes apart easily. ( I made it when I lived at my other house and knew we were going to purchase a different home)

The top is a solid core door about 30" deep and 60" long. The frame is made of 2x4 sides with six 4x4 posts. The posts sit 1-5/8" ( actual thickness of a 2x4) below the top 2x4 with a 2x4 screwed down into the top of the 4x4. This way the top is screwed from the bottom so there are no fasteners from the top.

The shelving is made from 5/4 x 8 white pine.

Would you like me to draw up dimensions of mine?

Jeff

That's what I think I'm going to have to do for myself when I get into a house (somewhere with real storage). All the premade benches I've seen, which rich in features, are just too stinkin' expensive.

Also... nice collection there. Looks like a 700 BDL Deluxe, 2 Garands, an AR, and a FAL :dthumb:

But no Schmidt Rubin K31? :whistle:

['73 H1 Triple]

That's what I think I'm going to have to do for myself when I get into a house (somewhere with real storage). All the premade benches I've seen, which rich in features, are just too stinkin' expensive.

Also... nice collection there. Looks like a 700 BDL Deluxe, 2 Garands, an AR, and a FAL :dthumb:

But no Schmidt Rubin K31? :whistle:

What you misidentified as the rem is a mauser 98 in .308 The "FAL" is a L1A1 ( price/value difference )

The remington is in the middle
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/DCP_1691A.jpg

Ruger MK II in .330 Win Mag
Rem 700 in 7mm Rem Mag
Win 70 in .270 WBY

[Adeptus_Minor]

What you misidentified as the rem is a mauser 98 in .308 The "FAL" is a L1A1 ( price/value difference )



Well, it wasn't a perfect picture :wink::whistle:
Still, nice collection.
I'd kill for just one of the Garands (maybe the other so I could trade it for a M1903A1)

[racedoll]

I made the bench myself and designed it so it comes apart easily. ( I made it when I lived at my other house and knew we were going to purchase a different home)

The top is a solid core door about 30" deep and 60" long. The frame is made of 2x4 sides with six 4x4 posts. The posts sit 1-5/8" ( actual thickness of a 2x4) below the top 2x4 with a 2x4 screwed down into the top of the 4x4. This way the top is screwed from the bottom so there are no fasteners from the top.

The shelving is made from 5/4 x 8 white pine.

Would you like me to draw up dimensions of mine?

Jeff

Thanks! That is a little bigger than what I wanted or need at this point. Do you have some kind of overhang on the end for clearance on the press?

I actually found a little bench today at a junk store for $20. It is pretty close to what I want. I could easily modify it a bit for little money and it would work for what I need at this point since I'm just getting into reloading.

I just hope the store still has it (had no way of getting it home at the time I saw and wanted hubby or Dad to see first). Hubby and I stopped this evening after hours but thought I could still show him through the window since it was right up front... GONE! I'm hoping they just cleaned it off for me...:shrug: I'll find out for sure tomorrow.

['73 H1 Triple]

Well, it wasn't a perfect picture :wink::whistle:
Still, nice collection.
I'd kill for just one of the Garands (maybe the other so I could trade it for a M1903A1)

I got each of those M1 garnads from the CMP back in the 90s for $300 each :dthumb:

I like the looks of the M1903A1 but it's one of the most punishing rifles I've ever fired. ( I own three belted magnums too ) The stock was designed to minimize the wood needed to make, rather than shooting comfort.

Thanks! That is a little bigger than what I wanted or need at this point. Do you have some kind of overhang on the end for clearance on the press?

I actually found a little bench today at a junk store for $20. It is pretty close to what I want. I could easily modify it a bit for little money and it would work for what I need at this point since I'm just getting into reloading.

I just hope the store still has it (had no way of getting it home at the time I saw and wanted hubby or Dad to see first). Hubby and I stopped this evening after hours but thought I could still show him through the window since it was right up front... GONE! I'm hoping they just cleaned it off for me...:shrug: I'll find out for sure tomorrow.

I have a 3" overhang on the front and both sides. I drilled 3/8" holes to mount the press and have 3/8" thick aluminum plate underneath to make it even more steady.

Heavy and rock steady is the key for a good reloading bench. How big of a bench are you thinking of getting? I could modify my design and draw it up. That would give you an idea of how to build one if the one you founf isn't there anymore.

Jeff

['73 H1 Triple]

Here's the link to my thread on relaoding rifle ammo
http://www.twowheelfix.com/showthread.php?t=12777

Jeff

[racedoll]

I have a 3" overhang on the front and both sides. I drilled 3/8" holes to mount the press and have 3/8" thick aluminum plate underneath to make it even more steady.

Heavy and rock steady is the key for a good reloading bench. How big of a bench are you thinking of getting? I could modify my design and draw it up. That would give you an idea of how to build one if the one you founf isn't there anymore.

Jeff

Well, the bench I looked at yesterday was indeed sold :( Oh well, I have an idea on what I want now and how to build it.

I was looking at 2½' deep and 4' long with one or two drawers, a shelf on the bottom and maybe a little shelf up top to mount the powder measure.

Here's the link to my thread on relaoding rifle ammo
http://www.twowheelfix.com/showthread.php?t=12777
Jeff

Thanks. At this point I'm just going to reload mainly 380, some 9mm and probably some 38 special. The latter two I'll have to do at Dad's since I don't have dies for them. If we like doing it, then I'll pick up my own set.

My Dad is going nuts with "his little girl" wanting to reload.

['73 H1 Triple]

Well, the bench I looked at yesterday was indeed sold :( Oh well, I have an idea on what I want now and how to build it.

I was looking at 2½' deep and 4' long with one or two drawers, a shelf on the bottom and maybe a little shelf up top to mount the powder measure.

I did a very quick drawing in "paint" on how I constructed my bench. I altered it to how I would make a 30" x 48" reloading bench.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/table.jpg

Not sure if you're proficient in reading blueprints but the left view is looking down from the top and the right view is looking at it from the side.

left view
Each of the brown lines represent 2x4's set vertically, the red lines are 4x4's and the green are 2x4 set flat. I would have 3" of overhang on both sides and the front. The back would be flush.

The length of the long 2x4 would be 42" ( 48-3-3= 42) and the sides would be 23-3/4" ( 30-3-1*5/8-1*5/8= 23-3/4" ). The top would require two pieces 42" long and FIVE pieces 23-3/34. Two would make up the ends and the other three would lay flat over the 4x4s with a center one mounted flush to the top.

I screwed two decks screws into each end of the 2x4s to make the outer frame. Then two more screws into the 4x4 from both outer edges. The flat 2x4s are screwed down and also screwed into the outer frame.

right view
The bottom 2x4's are the base for a sheet of plywood which would sit on top. Simply screw the frame into the legs from the inside and lay the plywood on top. Notice the center support.

Now you may be wondering why I have 2x4s laid flat. When you put you top on, you can secure it from underneath with the correct length screws and don't have bolt heads on the top. :dthumb:



Here's a picture of the support plate under my press
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/JRD77VET/Seneca%20Arms%20Co/reloading/DCP_4787.jpg



Thanks. At this point I'm just going to reload mainly 380, some 9mm and probably some 38 special. The latter two I'll have to do at Dad's since I don't have dies for them. If we like doing it, then I'll pick up my own set.

My Dad is going nuts with "his little girl" wanting to reload.

You could probably use the .380 dies to load 9mm if you adjust the dies. The case length of a .380 is .670 and the case length of a 9mm is .754

Saying that, it is extremely important that you use the correct bullet weights and powder measurement for each caliber. :yes:

Feel free to ask any questions

Jeff

[racedoll]

I did a very quick drawing in "paint" on how I constructed my bench. I altered it to how I would make a 30" x 48" reloading bench.

Not sure if you're proficient in reading blueprints but the left view is looking down from the top and the right view is looking at it from the side.

You rock! And yes - I can kind of read blueprints. Don't do it very often, but I did learn some of that in school (engineering major).

You could probably use the .380 dies to load 9mm if you adjust the dies. The case length of a .380 is .670 and the case length of a 9mm is .754

Saying that, it is extremely important that you use the correct bullet weights and powder measurement for each caliber. :yes:

Feel free to ask any questions

Jeff

I don't think you can since there are differences in the diameter of the case, not just length. But what do I know...:shrug: I just rather not take my chances when it isn't necessary.

Heck even the shell holder is a different number, but whatever.

Yep. To start I'm focusing on the 380 since I only have 5 rounds left and can't find any factory ammo. Plus I don't have a 9mm other than hubby's and I don't really care for it. I can't afford the one I want just yet, maybe by the end of summer.

[Adeptus_Minor]

My Dad is going nuts with "his little girl" wanting to reload.

Of course.
That's total bragging rights. :dthumb:

[marko138]

You rock! And yes - I can kind of read blueprints. Don't do it very often, but I did learn some of that in school (engineering major).



I don't think you can since there are differences in the diameter of the case, not just length. But what do I know...:shrug: I just rather not take my chances when it isn't necessary.

Heck even the shell holder is a different number, but whatever.

Yep. To start I'm focusing on the 380 since I only have 5 rounds left and can't find any factory ammo. Plus I don't have a 9mm other than hubby's and I don't really care for it. I can't afford the one I want just yet, maybe by the end of summer.
Tried internet or are you just looking locally for the .380? Or do you just really wanna reload too?

[racedoll]

Tried internet or are you just looking locally for the .380? Or do you just really wanna reload too?

Yes, I've tried internet. It is backorder/sold out.
Yes, I've found it locally but when I do you are limited to 1 box.
Yes, I kind of just want to reload. I can save a little bit of money. I get some quality time with Dad in the beginning with him showing me. I will have it more readily available since I like shooting. I don't like limiting my range time because I have to watch how much ammo I have (or don't have).

[wildchild]

not sure what your price range is or your ability, but if you want an easy start, just add 2x4's and plywood, you could go this route.

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat602007-cat20849&id=0031351215763a&navCount=2&podId=0031351&parentId=cat20849&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=UK&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat601233&hasJS=true

['73 H1 Triple]

.380 ammo at Cabela's

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/common/search/search-results1.jsp?Ntt=.380+ammo&sort=all&Ntk=Products&Go.y=8&selectedPerPage=54&N=0&Nty=1&hasJS=true&_DARGS=%2Fcabelas%2Fen%2Fcommon%2Fsearch%2Fsearch-box.jsp.form1&Go.x=17&_dyncharset=ISO-8859-1

[racedoll]

.380 ammo at Cabela's

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/common/search/search-results1.jsp?Ntt=.380+ammo&sort=all&Ntk=Products&Go.y=8&selectedPerPage=54&N=0&Nty=1&hasJS=true&_DARGS=%2Fcabelas%2Fen%2Fcommon%2Fsearch%2Fsearch-box.jsp.form1&Go.x=17&_dyncharset=ISO-8859-1

Until you add it to your cart, then you get this message....

This item is on backorder. Cabela's estimates it will take 0-1 week to ship this product.

This is what happens on quite a few sites. It appears they have it, but then when you actually go to check out. Oops sorry, out of stock.

['73 H1 Triple]

Until you add it to your cart, then you get this message....



This is what happens on quite a few sites. It appears they have it, but then when you actually go to check out. Oops sorry, out of stock.

Bummer. Hopefully soon it'll show up again.

Is there a Cabela's within driving distance for you? If so, when you order something, you can have it shipped to the store for free. :dthumb:

The Hamburg,PA location is less than a hour from me and it's a nice ride.

[racedoll]

Wheeling would be the closest for me and that is a couple hours away.

If you have ever heard of Fin, Feather, and Fur in Ashland, OH that is about 20 minutes from home. I can sometimes get it there or some other local shops, again limit to 1 IF they have in stock.

I'm not too worried. Going to Columbus tomorrow and they ALWAYS have some in stock.

[wildchild]

we have .380 on the shelf here at Gander and Cabelas but God help you if you want .357 or .45. I got a box of .357 last night. $26 for 50 shells. 9mm and .40 are very easy to get lately.

I am seriously considering going the same route as you Racedoll. start loading my own.

[racedoll]

we have .380 on the shelf here at Gander and Cabelas but God help you if you want .357 or .45. I got a box of .357 last night. $26 for 50 shells. 9mm and .40 are very easy to get lately.

I am seriously considering going the same route as you Racedoll. start loading my own.

Sounds like I need to get you 357 and 45 to mail you, then you do the same with 380 for me :)

We have a boat load of 9mm here lately. I hope that means 380 to follow (they say it is run on the same line).

[marko138]

Bummer. Hopefully soon it'll show up again.

Is there a Cabela's within driving distance for you? If so, when you order something, you can have it shipped to the store for free. :dthumb:

The Hamburg,PA location is less than a hour from me and it's a nice ride.

Less than an hour from me too.

[wildchild]

Sounds like I need to get you 357 and 45 to mail you, then you do the same with 380 for me :)

We have a boat load of 9mm here lately. I hope that means 380 to follow (they say it is run on the same line).

there you go. we'll have to work out a meet in the middle roadtrip kind of thing. bad part is the only thing between Wis and Ohio is Illinois or Indiana. LOL

[racedoll]

Well, I finally got my reloading bench. It is an old dresser. Something my Dad used as his bench back when he started so it seemed kind of fitting. I just got it in here this weekend, still trying to organize how I want things. I have so little stuff and so much room (right now) that I have plenty of options.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j197/racedoll/19adfc6b.jpg

[Adeptus_Minor]

Well, I finally got my reloading bench. It is an old dresser. Something my Dad used as his bench back when he started so it seemed kind of fitting.


Wow... practicality and style! :dthumb:

[racedoll]

My first reloads. The very first one crimped so I had to back that die off. The rest turned out perfect. Now to shoot them!

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j197/racedoll/61698e14.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j197/racedoll/d5975e96.jpg