Safety 101: Tips for Cleaning a Gun Safely

Cleaning a gun can seem like an innocent maintenance activity.

But when not done with proper precautions, cleaning a weapon can be deadly.

To keep yourself and your family safe while cleaning your guns, be sure to follow this guide.

Be in an Empty Room While Cleaning a Gun

Should your gun accidentally fire, you want to limit the number of people who could get hurt.

Always clean alone in an empty room. Tell your family you're cleaning a gun and do not enter. Remove any pets as well.

Avoid Distractions

Distractions when cleaning guns cause extra danger. Do not clean while watching TV or listening to music. Concentrate on the task at hand.

Unload the Gun

The most important part of safely cleaning a gun is to make sure it's unloaded.

First, remove the magazine. Then open the chamber and observe front and back to assure no rounds are left chambered or in the barrel.

Double and triple check to make sure the gun is completely ammo-free before cleaning. For added assurance, never clean in the same room you store your ammunition or reloading press.

Disassemble the Gun

Some guns will require disassembly to clean.

Every gun has a different assembly, so check your owner's manual for the best way to take it apart.

Wipe the Barrel with Solvent

With the gun disassembled, you can now begin to clean the individual parts, starting with the barrel.

Soak a cleaning patch with a gun cleaning solvent. Use a cleaning rod to push the patch through the barrel, starting from the end of the bore working toward the muzzle.

Once you push the patch out the other side of the barrel, remove the patch. Do not push and pull the patch inside the barrel as this will only move the grime around.

Let the barrel sit and let the solvent work while you clean the rest of the gun.

Brush the Frame, Slide, and Recoil Spring

Using a dry rag or a toothbrush, simply wipe any residue from the other parts of the gun.

Use a Q-tip to scrape corners and grooves that the rag and toothbrush can't get to.

After this, go back in for a final wipedown with a dry cleaning patch.

Do not use a solvent or cleaning liquid during this step, as it can smear the grime and cause more work.

Clean Out the Barrel

While you've been brushing down the rest of the gun, the solvent has started to break down any fouling inside of the bore.

Using a wire brush, go back and forth through the barrel to bristle away the buildup.

Then, push a dry patch through the barrel. The patch should come out the other side dirty, having picked up the loose carbon and other fouling. Continue to repeat this step until the patches come out clean.

Wipe the Outside of the Barrel

Using a patch with a small amount of solvent, lightly wipe the outside of the barrel.

Put a special focus on the back end by the opening of the firing chamber which will be one of the dirtiest parts of the gun.

After wiping with the wet patch, follow up with a few dry patches.

Lubricate

Once you've cleaned out the dirt, you'll need to oil up the gun.

Use a Q-tip and wipe down the barrel and slide rails with gun lubricant. You will only need a few drops of oil.

Use a dry patch and wipe off any excess oil.

You can now reassemble the gun and store it in a safe location.

More Activities for Gun Hobbyists

Cleaning a gun can be a labor of love for gun owners.

For those who love to work with and shoot guns, reloading might be a new hobby for you. Click here to learn more about reloading.

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5 Things to Consider When Buying a Gun Safe

There's no doubt about it: you need protection in today's day and age. Every year in the United States, homeowners report over 2 million burglaries. That's over 2 million opportunities for someone to come into your home and hurt you or those you love.

However, an unprotected gun is just as dangerous. If you want to be a responsible gun owner, and you have multiple firearms in your home, you need to consider buying a gun safe.

But it's not just as easy as going out and buying the first gun safe that you see. There are things you need to consider when you make this important purchase.

If you're thinking of buying a gun safe, read on to learn more.

1. Size

There's no sense in owning a gun safe if it doesn't fit the size and number of firearms you own. Make sure you pick one that will house not only your firearm but your ammunition as well.

And while you want it to be big enough to house all of your guns, you don't want it to be so large that it takes up a cumbersome amount of room. Measure out the width of your closet, or wherever you intend to store the gun safe and make sure it fits there as well.

2. The Lock

It might be tempting to purchase the gun safe with the easiest lock to open. However, that completely defeats the purpose of buying a gun safe in the first place. The purpose of a gun safe is to keep children and burglars away from your weapons, and a lock that is too simple to open isn't going to cut it.

Luckily, with technology being as advanced as it is, you have a virtually endless supply of lock types to choose from. You can access some gun safes via password, voice activation, or even thumbprint.

3. Protection From the Elements

A good gun safe doesn't just protect your guns from other people, it will protect your guns from foul weather as well. Make sure any safe you choose offers, at the very least, fire protection.

It's not a terrible idea to consider storing some of your other valuables in your gun safe as well, and adding protection from the elements will keep all of your valued belongings safe.

4. The Quality

Just because a gun safe is the most expensive one at the store doesn't mean it's going to offer you the best protection. Sit down and really look at the specifications of each gun safe before you make your purchase, and choose the one that offers the features that you need rather than the one that costs the most (or the least.)

5. The Warranty

Accidents happen. Sometimes, the things we buy wind up being faulty. That's why we rely so heavily on warranty protection for things like our cars and computers.

Gun safes are no different. Most gun safes come with a minimum of one year warranty, however, if you have the option to upgrade, you should. There's no reason you shouldn't protect yourself from a faulty gun safe, especially when safety is on the line.

Buying a Gun Safe

Buying a gun safe shouldn't be a difficult or controversial decision. It's no secret that America is a scary place to be right now and that you should be able to protect yourself and your family. However, it's important that you take the steps you need to in order to ensure that you are protecting your family from the dangers inside of the home as well.

A solid education about gun safety and a secure gun safe are two ways to make everyone a little bit safer.

For more information about firearms, ammunition, or your second amendment rights, visit our website today.

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Top 5 Reliable Concealed Carry Weapons To Help You Feel Safe

In 2017 the demand for concealed carry permits was over 15 million people in the US.

These numbers are holding strong for this year, and more people who are not traditional gun owners are embracing their 2nd Amendment rights. More people want to feel comfortable and take control of their street safety.

If you are looking for a quality concealed carry gun, look no further! We've put together a list of our 5 favorite concealed carry weapons.

5 Concealed Carry Weapons for Safety and Reliability

More people across the country are successfully getting their concealed carry licenses. Once you get certified the next step is to buy a gun that will be reliable and efficient. These 5 concealed carry weapons do both and are perfect for beginning gun enthusiasts.

1. The Springfield XDs

The Springfield XDs .45ACP is one of the most concealable weapons on the market. It is 1″ wide and one of the easiest weapons to carry on the market.

This gun holds 5 to 6 rounds of .45ACP ammo, which is more than enough to protect yourself in almost any situation. It is made of high quality forged steel and polymer, making it well worth the price tag.

2. The Glock 26 Gen 3

The Glock 26 Gen 3 9mm is made to be a concealed carry weapon. It is powerful, lightweight, and sleek.

This weapon has a 10 round magazine, and yet is less than 7″ in length. This gun will fit in a holster, or a purse and shoots similarly the other, bigger Glock models.

3. The Ruger LCRx .38 Special

The Ruger LCR line, or “Lightweight Carry Revolver,” is known as a solid and compact line of weapons. The Ruger LCRx .38 Special is the latest in this line and is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the best in the series.

One of the things that make the Ruger LCR line so special is its patent-pending trigger system. They reduce friction to give their guns a smoother pull and more accurate aiming. While this pistol has a double action shooting mode, they made the .38 special have an exposed hammer to enable a single action shooting mode which many people prefer.

4. SCCY CPX-II

If you're looking for a gun that will get the job done, but won't break the bank, the SCCY CPX-II is the gun for you. It is more than $200 cheaper than the Glock models on this list and comes in a variety of grip colors.

This gun has a 10 round plus 1 round capacity of 9 mm ammo. It is also a pleasure to hold and comes with a lifetime warranty to boot.

5. The Glock 19 Gen 5 Handgun

Often lauded as the best handgun on the market, the Glock 19 is a multi-function gun that is both powerful and easy to carry.

This gun is also perfect for left-handed shooters as it can be switched over easily. It also can carry up to 15 rounds, though be sure to check your state concealed carry regulations on maximum rounds allowable. This gun is an investment that you won't regret.

Time to Go Shopping

Exercising your 2nd amendment rights is an important part of being an active American citizen.

Concealed carry weapons are all over the market, and choosing a weapon doesn't have to be overwhelming.

For more information on gun ownership and maximizing your ammo check out our site.

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5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gun Holster for Your Weapon

Looking for a new gun holster?

According to a recent Gallup poll, 56% of Americans say the U.S. is safer with more people carrying concealed weapons. What about you? What do you say?

What's more, it's easy to legally carry a concealed firearm.

Forty-two states say that if you're allowed to buy a gun, you're allowed to carry a concealed firearm. The other eight keep some discretion whether to issue or deny a carrying permit. But even in those states, they aren't hard to get.

If you want to be one of the few carrying a concealed pistol, we dedicate this article to you. Below, you'll find the top five tips for choosing the right holster. Read on to learn more.

Gun Holster Retention

The word “retention” is used to describe how good your holster is at keeping your firearm where it should be. In other words, if you jump up and down, will your gun fall out of your holster? We hope not.

If your gun does fall out, it's time to look for a new holster.

The above problem happens when you have too little retention. When you have too much retention, you can't get the gun out of the holster. It's holding on too tight.

You want to look for a holster that falls somewhere in the middle. Some holsters even offer adjustable retention rates. They accommodate people of varied strengths and sizes.

Ride Height and Cant Adjustment

Your ride height is how high your holster sits on your waist or under your arm. Your cant adjustment is the angle at which your gun sits. Both are important for a comfortable, fast draw.

Fortunately, factory settings will work well for most of you. As for the others? Most holsters offer a variety of adjustable settings to get your gun placement just right.

Ride height adjusts upwards and downwards. Cant adjustment rotates clockwise and counterclockwise. Make sure your new gear sits just right before you buy it.

This is especially true for concealed gun holsters. The wrong adjustment will leave the gun bulge visible to bystanders.

Molded

Some holsters come in a one-size-fits-all style. Avoid these at all costs. They're begging for catastrophe.

The main problems are low retention and clumsy draw. You already know you want a medium retention. You also want a smooth draw.

Your draw is how you pull your gun. A proper draw involves an easy grasp on your handle. With an even amount of pressure, you should be able to remove your gun and aim it.

Non-molded, leather pistol holsters, in particular, make for loose, clumsy draws. Instead, find a holster that's molded to the shape of your guns make and model. It makes all the difference.

Comfort

This one's a little more challenging to describe. Take a moment and remember back to your favorite pair of jeans or sneakers. They just fit right, didn't they?

That's how your gun holster belt should fit. It should never rub awkwardly or dig into you when you stand or walk.

When you try on your holster, imagine wearing it for ten hours a day. Could you stomach doing so day after day, week after week? If not, it's not the right one for you.

Quality

This one's easier to discern. What materials were used to make your new holster? Are they more durable than the others available?

How thick is the leather? Will it stand up under use in harsh weather? How about regular sun exposure? Dry conditions?

What about the cut? Does it have a charming style? Remember function isn't everything. If you're going to invest in a holster you'll have for the next twenty years, spend the time to get it right.

What's Next?

When you hunt for your gun holster, remember to shop around. Hundreds of different types exist. The right one is out there; it just requires some patience and a little legwork.

If you found this piece helpful, take five minutes to look at our other gun articles.

So long and good luck!

P.S. We also know everything there is to know about reloading presses. If you have questions, please visit our website right away.

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How Often Should You Clean Your Gun?

Gun ownership is a very personal experience that can vary greatly from one person to the next.

One typical question gun owners often have is: how often should you clean your gun?

This will depend upon your preferences, as well the type of ammunition you use, and the gun itself.

Are you using it primarily for hunting? Is it a concealed-carry gun?

These are crucial distinctions. Don't let your father-in-law guilt you into thinking it's a crime if you don't clean your gun after every single use. It's possible that's not necessary.

Let's take a look at the facts about what happens to a gun when it's fired, and how often you need to clean it.

What Happens When You Fire a Gun

When you pull the trigger, a metal firing pin is driven into the back of the cartridge. This causes a small explosive in the primer to ignite the powder in the casing.

This generates a sudden pressure, launching the bullet down the barrel, separating it from the rest of the cartridge.

Needless to say, there is a lot of heat and chemicals that are exchanged during this reaction.

With some guns, you'll be able to see debris on the barrel immediately after shooting. Also, depending on the type, there may also be debris inside the gun itself.

With others, it may be less obvious.

So How Often Should You Clean Your Gun?

The most important question you need to answer is whether your ammunition uses corrosive priming.

Ammunition that's been treated with corrosive priming leaves behind a nasty residue of corrosive salts, like potassium and sodium chloride.

If you're using this type of ammunition, you want to clean it after each use.

Most modern day ammo isn't made with corrosive priming, but if you're using older military surplus ammunition, there's a good chance that it is.

Ammunition can be expensive, so you might be drawn to some bargain deals, but try to avoid that corrosive priming.

One great way to save money on ammunition is to invest in a reloading press, which will allow you to assemble your ammo, instead of buying it pre-made.

That way you can know for sure what types of chemicals are going into your gun.

Keep Your Gun Dry

Another reason to clean your gun after using it is if it gets at all wet.

You might've had a sorry day of hunting, and not even fired your shotgun once. But if it rained a little while you were out there, you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent any rust from forming.

Let's Hear From the Experts

In general, most shotgun experts and aficionados recommend cleaning your gun after every use.

Tom Heapy makes a living repairing damaged and neglected shotguns, and he believes that with the proper upkeep and maintenance, you can avoid all of that damage.

His advice is to do at least a quick cleaning after every single use and to follow any recommendations outlined in your user's manual. Each gun requires different upkeep, and it's the company's job to know exactly what that it.

Sheriff Jim Wilson is another advocate for regular gun cleanings, especially when it comes to concealed-carry guns.

He argues that because you're carrying these guns to protect yourself in the event of an emergency, it is essential that they be in the finest working order.

He recommends stripping, cleaning and lubricating your gun after each use, and then taking it apart entirely for a more thorough cleaning at least once a year.

“I'm still carrying and using two 1911's that I've owned for more than 40 years, and they look and function like they were brand-new. Take care of your concealed-carry guns, and they will take care of you when the chips are down,” Wilson says.

You Have to Make the Choice That's Right for Your Gun

So if you're someone who has wondered how often should you clean your gun, hopefully now you have a better idea of what will work for you.

Maybe you're the type who needs to clean your gun every time you use it, or perhaps you clean it once every few weeks when that residue starts building up. Either way, just have a plan and follow through.

And when in doubt, it can't hurt to clean it…

If you have any questions about proper gun maintenance or the possibility of investing in a reloading press, don't hesitate to contact us.

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4 Reasons Why You Need Professional Gun Training

Given that nearly 40 percent of gun owners have never received any kind of formal training, plenty of people out there aren't shooting at their full potential.

If you pride yourself on your hunting skills and marksmanship, you could be relying on crutches or bad habits you don't even realize. Professional gun training is useful for owners of every skill level.

Here are four reasons why you need professional training.

1. Everyone Gets Rusty

Even if you've gotten training before, everyone could use a refresher course every few years. If it has been a few years since you were trained to use a firearm, you might have fallen into bad habits. In case you don't get out to shoot very often, do some target practice before hunting season.

Some people are great hunters without ever getting any professional training. While you might have learned some clever tricks from a friend or family member, you could be making rookie mistakes over and over. That's why gun training is so important.

2. Safety Standards Change

Every year, there are new ways to have a safer hunt. Whether it's better technology or better gun training, there are a lot of ways you could ensure that everyone on your hunting trip has a safe time.

Safety standards might have changed since the last time you were trained to use a weapon. You could have developed some unsafe habits over the years without even realizing it.

Professional training means you'll be making safe decisions every time you go hunting.

3. New Firearms Require New Tactics

If you've got a new firearm, you might not be using it to its full potential. Without the proper training, a high-quality expensive gun might seem like it's underperforming.

When you get a new gun, make sure you get some professional training as well.

If you're new to firearms, you should definitely be trained on the weapon you're using. Every weapon is different, so even if you're familiar with one type, you may not be familiar with this one. With the latest technology in reloading, you could always learn something new.

4. There's Always Room to Grow

No one is perfect. Even the best hunters and marksmen on the planet know that they could always be better. As your eyes change with age, your body changes in shape and size, and your comfort with a weapon grows, so does your shooting style.

A professional firearms training has something to offer to every gun owner. Never be too proud to learn something new – or you'll never be as good as you should be.

Gun Training Is Never a Useless Venture

No matter who you are or what kind of shooting you do, gun training has both practical and technical use for shooters. Even a casual pheasant hunter could learn some new tricks from a professional gun training course.

If you think you know everything about reloading already, check out our guide to make sure!

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The Top 5 Benefits of Owning a Gun

You've heard it plenty of times before: America is crazy about guns.

So aside from flexing their 2nd Amendment rights, why are people so drawn to firearms in the US? Why is gun ownership so popular?

In truth, there are many benefits of owning a gun — and some that may surprise you. Here are some of the reasons people love guns.

Safety and Security

The most obvious benefit of gun ownership is self-defense.

In an active shooter situation, the average police response time is about 3 minutes. For other emergencies, response times could be closer to 10 minutes or even longer.

In the direst situations, those few minutes could make the difference between life and death.

Whether you're in your own home or carrying in public, owning a gun gives you a fighting chance against those who would do you harm.

Recreational Shooting

Most gun owners hope they'll never need to use their weapon in a true emergency. But emergencies aren't the only opportunity they have to shoot.

Going to a local gun range is a fun recreational activity for many Americans. Firing at targets can give the same thrill as playing basketball or throwing darts.

By going to ranges more often, gun owners can practice and improve their shooting accuracy and test out their ammunition. This gives them more confidence and ability should an emergency arise in the future.

Personal Responsibility

Owning a gun requires responsibility. It is, after all, a lethal weapon.

This responsibility always needs to be turned on in a gun owner's mind. You need to know where the gun is, how it's stored, and who has access to it.

This sense of personal responsibility often extends out from being just about the gun. The care and safety needed to own and handle a gun can influence a person's mentality in general.

It's common for married couples to get dogs or other pets to learn the responsibilities of caring for another living creature before having children of their own. In much the same way, owning a gun helps train your brain for other responsibilities in your life.

Checks and Balances

Many proponents of 2nd Amendment rights often view citizen gun ownership as an essential part of the checks and balances for the US Government.

An armed population helps to thwart tyranny. For many of the most tyrannical governments in the modern era, such as Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, removing guns from citizens was an early step to limiting opposition.

As a gun owner, you check the power of government and help to deter the takeover of a hostile group.

Hobby Collecting

Collecting things is a great hobby for many Americans. Some people collect baseball cards or trading pins, while others collect bigger items like vintage cars.

Guns are another thing people like to collect. Some gun collectors focus on historical firearms from past wars. Some like to have many variants of the same rifle.

Collecting is fun, and guns open the door to new types of collections.

There Are Many Benefits of Owning a Gun

On top of being the best way to protect you and your family, you can see there are many benefits of owning a gun.

If you're interested in gun ownership, you might also be interested in the hobby of reloading ammunition. Check out this beginner's guide to reloading to learn more.

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A Guide to Gun Safety for Women

You know about the dangers where you live and want to take precautions. You've taken self-defense and know how to run, but carrying the right personal protection is your safest bet.

In cases like these, gun safety lessons are one of the best investments you can make. Owning a gun is more than simply pulling it out and shooting to ward off an attacker.

Gun safety for women means knowing how to stay safe and what to do when you're in a dangerous situation. Learn more about how carrying a gun can keep you safe and give you confidence in any situation.

Gun Classes Teach the Basic Rules for Gun Handling

While you can learn safe ways to handle a gun from a friend or family member who's licensed and experienced, there's no substitute for learning from a trained professional. When you learn how to use a gun, you'll gain a complete understanding of your state's gun laws.

By working with someone trained to teach gun safety, you'll understand the safest ways to load a gun and shoot at a target. With target practice and the ability to have private lessons if needed, working with a professional offers additional opportunity to perfect learning how to use a gun.

Gun Safety for Women Teaches You How to Carry and React

If you're using a gun for protection, you want to abide by the law but still carry so that no one else knows you're armed. Conceal carry is important for anyone, especially a woman, who needs adequate protection.

Make sure you're aware of your state laws on concealed carry. You'll learn about what options you have, from holsters that hide your firearms to concealed carry purses.

You can talk with your instructor about which one meets your needs and the pros and cons. This allows you to make a quick draw and feel protected when you're in a situation and need to defend yourself.

You'll Learn Advanced Techniques with Gun Safety Classes

When taking a gun class, you'll learn about advanced topics such as:

• Reloading a gun
• Knowing what's behind your target when shooting
• Shooting at more than one target
• Shooting in conditions with little to no light

If you're worried about getting attacked, it's essential you know how to shoot in difficult situations. That means shooting when it's dark out or handling more than one person who's trying to attack you.

When you choose to take lessons from a professional, you can focus on topics and techniques that you want additional help with. That means when it's time to protect yourself, you'll feel confident no matter where you go.

Discover More On Gun Safety

When you want to protect yourself and stay prepared, it's beneficial to have taken a class on gun safety for women. This gives you an edge on attackers who think you're caught off guard.

If you're interested in learning more about guns and gun safety, we're here to help you/ Check out our blog post on what is a turret reloading press and increase your knowledge about what's available on the market.

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Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II Review

Target shooting is probably one of the coolest hobbies and pastimes that you can be lucky enough to experience. It helps improve a person’s focus and presence of mind. At the same time, it compels you to work on your fitness as part of the training.

However, despite the fact that it is such an interesting activity, not a lot of people have the luxury to really get hooked to it, especially as a sport or hobby, because the equipment is rather expensive.

Fortunately, there’s a way to reduce the expense of your shooting gear, in particular that of your ammo supply. More and more gun enthusiasts are becoming interested in reloading their own ammo to cut the amount they spend on factory-made ammunition.

Reloading can be challenging for those who are not very mechanically inclined. The good thing is that there are reloading press units available that are rather easy to operate and very convenient to use.

Reloading experts highly recommend the single-stage reloading press for beginners because of its super simple mechanism. Aside from its easy operation, it also promotes precision and consistency when it comes to the quality of the rounds it produces.

The drawback to it, though, is it takes time to complete reloading all of your rounds. Some gun enthusiasts prefer to use something a little bit more advanced than the single-stage reloading press, something like the Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II.

Key Features

Lee is a well known brand in the industry and it has consistently provided high-quality products for many years. One of its trademarks is providing not just a standalone reloading press but the entire reloading kit.

The Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II is a bestseller and has received quite a lot of positive feedback from customers who’ve already tried the product.

• Includes a very strong Challenger Press designed for precision and speed in reloading rounds
• Full-length sizing brought by its compound leverage
• Built-in Priming System
• Well-designed powder handling system
• Precise and accurate powder measure
• 2 breech lock quick-change bushings
• Extremely sharp cutter to trim cases. Also comes with lock stud
• Add-ons include a primer pocket cleaner and a premium sizing lube

Pros

You won’t have to go through the trouble of acquiring all of the equipment you need for your reloading kit separately. With this Lee Challenger Kit II, everything you get everything you need in one package.

The most important component in this kit is the Challenger reloading press which is equipped for reloading almost all kinds of cartridges. It is a turret press that is designed with a 30-degree opening angle for easy access in changing dies.

It can also do full-length sizing on almost all sizes of magnum cases with its compound leverage mechanism. With this Challenger reloading press, you can reload your rounds with precise measurement and be consistent with the quality of the finished product.

This kit also includes tools for preparing the cases: a cutter with a lock stud which is used for clipping the cases, a cleaner for the primer pocket, a tool for the case mouth chamber, and premium sizing lubricant.

Another component of this kit is the Breech Lock Quick Change bushing which makes switching dies possible in just a matter of seconds.

Cons

Unlike most reloading kits in the market, this Precision Challenger Kit II from Lee is already a complete package. It has everything you are looking for to complete the task of reloading ammunition.

However, it is not entirely perfect. For example, the shell holder is not included in the kit and it needs to be bought separately. Also, the powder scale it comes with may have some lag in reading the weight.

Comparison

The Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II features the Challenger press which is a remarkable turret press. Another popular turret press in the market is the Lyman T-Mag Turret Press which happens to be a bestseller as well.

Both are exceptional reloading machines and they both come in packages with reloading accessories. However, when it comes to the powder scale, Lee’s is more accurate and reliable.

More experts would recommend the Lee Precision Challenger Kit even though it is slightly more expensive than Lyman’s.

Verdict

Why go to the trouble of getting each piece of reloading equipment one by one when there’s a kit that contains everything you need for reloading your ammunition? The Lee Precision Challenger Kit II is intended for that purpose and it would be smart to take advantage of its reasonable price.

The Challenger Press that it comes with is an impressive turret press that works perfectly with its case preparation tools, accurate digital scale, and primer. All in all, it’s an exceptional reloading kit that’s worth every last penny you invest in it.

Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit II Review posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press Review

Many people are becoming more and more interested in shooting as a sport or a hobby. However, most of them are holding back because of the fact that shooting is not really the cheapest pastime. Aside from investing money in the firearm, you also have to consider the ammunition that you are going to use.

If you are planning to frequent the shooting range or go on hunting trips often, you are going to need lots of ammo. What most people don’t know is that there’s actually a way to avoid spending a lot of money on ammo. That’s what reloading presses are designed for.

Reloading your own ammo is definitely a smart decision if you are planning on going to the shooting range or hunting frequently. It has several benefits that you can take advantage of.

First, you can save money by reloading your ammo instead of buying the factory-made ones which certainly don’t come cheap.

Second, you can dramatically improve your firearm’s performance by experimenting on the dimensions and the combination of gun powders, primers, and so on.

However, the catch is that it’s going to take some of your precious time to get it done, especially if you are just learning how to reload your ammo. The good thing is that there are reliable reloading press models like the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press that you can use to make the job easier.

Key Features

RCBS’ Rock Chucker Supreme is a very popular name in the industry. In fact, it is known to be one of the best single-stage reloading presses in the market. Its manufacturer has kept on improving its design to accommodate the demands of many gun enthusiasts.

• High-quality construction
• 4-inch ram-bearing surface supporting its 1-inch diameter main ram
• Designed with ball-type handle grip made of high-quality solid steel for a comfortable grip
• Versatile construction which can be upgraded to a progressive loader
• Built for heavy-duty reloading, bullet swaging, and case forming
• Lengthened design to accommodate latest cartridge designs
• Engineered to produce consistent and high-quality rounds of ammo

Pros

There are many reloading press products in the market but only a few are as good and reliable as the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press. It is made of high-quality materials, making it another excellent Bushnell product.

One thing that’s very commendable about this Supreme press model is the fact that it is a single stage press which is designed in a way that will give you the option to upgrade it to a progressive press later on. This is why many reloading experts are recommending this product both to amateur and experienced gun enthusiasts.

It has also been modified so that it can accommodate the latest design of cartridges which appear to be longer than they used to be.

The Rock Chucker Supreme Press has a very comfortable grip due to its ball-type handle design. It is so versatile it can be operated both by righties and lefties.

The high-quality solid steel material used for its construction adds rigidity and stability, improving its overall performance. This single stage press is undoubtedly engineered for a heavy-duty reloading. It’s also great for bullet swaging and case forming.

Cons

The Rock Chucker Supreme Press is a popular product and has received lots of positive reviews for its excellent performance. However, it also has some minor drawbacks. With this model, most people would say the primer catcher is the main flaw. Some have reported that theirs snapped after a couple of uses.

Comparison

Another product that is listed right up there with the RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press is the Hornady Lock N Load Auto progressive reloading press. Just like RCBS, Hornady is also a very popular name in the industry and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to putting really good products in the market.

The difference between the two is the Rock Chucker Supreme is originally a single-stage reloading press which can be upgraded to a progressive press design while Lock N Load is already a progressive reloading press.

Both are great products but the Rock Chucker Supreme Press is more recommended for beginners who are just learning about reloading ammo.

Verdict

The Rock Chucker Supreme Press has earned its spot in the list of the best reloading presses because of its impeccable quality and ingenious design.

The overall construction of this reloading press is intended to ensure the consistency and quality of the ammo it reloads. This quality is attributed to its rigid and stable design. The components help make a comfortable piece of equipment to use that even lefthanders can use comfortably.

It’s most highlighted property is its setup that can be upgraded to a progressive reloading press which can be done with only a few modifications. In that sense, it can be considered as two reloading presses in one.

RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Press Review posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

What You Need to Know About Reloading

If you are a weapons enthusiast, you may have heard about reloading. If you want to know more about how to mount reloading press and the essentials surrounding this procedure, you should read all of the information gathered in this article.

For beginners who are interested in the whole procedure, you have to take into consideration the equipment required first.

The first thing you have to consider is the time you are willing to spend on reloading. Not all reloading presses are the same and each type has its own functions and features. Furthermore, reloading requires effort and time on your part, so you have to consider the different options carefully before buying equipment.

The tools you need in order to begin reloading are dies, the reloading press, primers, powder, scales, bullets and case preparation equipment. Out of all the devices required the most essential item to invest in is the reloading press.

When looking for a press, you should consider the different brands and the styles of press. There are lots of manufacturers available at the moment so you won’t have any problems when it comes to finding possible models. These companies provide top quality products that differ in features and prices.

Reloading presses come in single-stage, progressive and turret styles. Single-stage press reloaders are the most affordable however they can only provide a single station. Every stage of reloading needs to be done individually so if you have the time for such steps, a single-stage press may work for you.

The turret kind lets users use a certain number of dies and this kind of press features a wheel between 3 to 5 stations based on the model. Because of this, the case can be sized, brought to the subsequent station, extended, turned over to the subsequent station again, seated, brought to the next station then finally crimped.

One advantage of the turret press is that it you don’t need to adjust the dies. Users can manage the turret for a particular caliber and an additional turret system for another caliber and merely shift turrets, which then makes for a faster, simpler transition of calibers.

The progressive caliber meanwhile is the most efficient according to experts, though it is the most expensive as well. The progressive kind allows for cases to be sized, seated and crimped simultaneously.

The progressive press also has around 3 to 5 die stations based on the model. As soon as its lever is drawn, a case is inserted into the shell plate. When a case is sized, another is expanded which then undergoes the powder charge, another is seated and one crimped.

These steps are done with only a single lever, though this kind of system usually takes a bit longer to assemble compared to other presses. But when it’s all set up, it will produce steady, quality reloads for a good period of time.

The steps for mounting a reloading press will make use of dies thus you have to consider die sets next. Dies are available in any caliber and these calibers often vary when it comes to price. Rarer ones are the most expensive.

You have to consider prepping tools as well and they include primer pocket tools, tumblers and case trimmers. Primer pocket tools are utilized for powder ignition and primer seating while the case trimmer is used for safe, precise reloading.

The case trimmer is also utilized in order to keep the case length minus the bullet to the correct specifications. It is crucial to trim cases following the sizing procedure. To get rid of sharp edges, deburring and chamfering are required following a case trim.

Next you have to mull over powders and primers. To find an appropriate powder, you have to employ the same powder for a variety of calibers and you can also turn to a reloading manual to find out if your preferred powder suits the calibers you need reloaded.

The powder scale is also needed since it is used to weigh every charge and guarantee correct, safe case loading. When it comes to primers, it comes in big and small rifle and big and small pistol varieties.

They are often sold by the hundreds or thousands and if you want to save money, you can choose to purchase in bulk. You have to refer to a reloading manual in order to determine the primer that your calibers need.

Those are the main items you need when it comes to dealing with reloaders and mounting a reloading press. If you have a difficult time choosing a press for your firearms, you can browse reviews and see which models fit your needs best.

What You Need to Know About Reloading posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Hornady Lock N Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press Review

Shooting sport is becoming more and more popular these days and people are becoming hooked to it. However, due to the expensive nature of the equipment for this sport, not everyone has the luxury to learn and enjoy this sport.

Many hunters and shooters cannot allow themselves to go all-out during practice and even during their hunting trips because they only have a limited supply of ammo.

If you are someone who is also experiencing this, someone who really enjoys this sport but has to hold back because of the ammunition issue, then you definitely need to know what a reloading press is.

Many gun enthusiasts opt to reload their own ammo instead of replenishing their supplies from the local firearm supply store.

There are quite a few benefits to doing it on your own. First and foremost, you can lessen the cost for ammunition because you don’t have to purchase it from somewhere else. Factory-made ammo can be quite expensive.

Also, reloading your ammo gives you the freedom to re-design it so that it will favor your shooting style and improve your firearm’s performance. It can be your own little project which you can do on your spare time.

You may have to invest on the equipment, which may seem impractical at first, but if you are planning to practice or go hunting frequently, you will be able to save quite a good amount of money in the long run.

There’s really no need to buy expensive equipment. You just have to know where to look. The Hornady Lock N Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press is a highly recommended product because of its great performance and reasonable price.

Key Features

Coming from one of the most popular names in the industry, the Hornady Lock N Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press is regarded as a top-notch piece of equipment designed for reloading ammo because of its amazing performance.

• Advanced auto-progressive reloading press intended for quick and precise loading of ammo
• Well-designed built-in priming mechanism
• Convenient 5-station bushing system for quick switching
• Metering Inserts with Quick-change property
• Indexing System that functions automatically
• EZject System for quick and easy removal of cartridges
• Hopper designed for large capacity
• Designed for convenient upgrades like bullet trays, roller handles, and stable mount

 Pros

The Hornady Lock N Load reloading press is a very popular product, and for good reason. It is one of the most advanced progressive reloading presses you can find in the market.

It utilizes a patented tool that features a 5-station bushing system intended for quickly changing out the dies while eliminating the need to remove the tool head. This is a one-of-a-kind bushing system that has been optimized for the quickest caliber changes.

It is also designed to accommodate almost all sizes of cartridges available. It is one of the fastest reloading presses ever and can load up to 500 rounds of your desired caliber in an hour.

Unlike other reloading press models out there, the Lock N Load can be operated rather smoothly because of its unique auto indexing feature. Even its metering inserts are equipped with quick-change mechanism and the EZject system allows the quick removal of the cartridges.

It also comes with a built-in priming mechanism and a hopper that is designed with a large capacity so the press can reload several rounds at once.

There are also convenient upgrades and add-ons that can be added such as bullet trays, roller handles, and a stable mount. To top it all, the Hornady Lock N Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press looks every bit a professional grade machine.

Cons

With all its amazing features, it can be hard to find a fault in this well-designed machine. However, it still has its minor setbacks. For example, it can be quite challenging for a hand loader to get used to its half-stage operation.

Comparison

Just like Hornady, Lee is another popular brand in the industry, and one of its great products is the Lee Precision Anniversary Challenger Kit.

If both products are compared in terms of price, the Lee reloading press is certainly cheaper and more affordable. But if you would like to go for more precision, accuracy, and speed when it comes to reloading your rounds, the Lock N Load is definitely what you should go for.

Verdict

The Hornady Lock N Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press is indeed a cutting-edge product that is designed to provide convenience and consistency to those who don’t have the luxury of time to reload their ammo.

Because it can reload several rounds in a matter of minutes, it is very convenient to use. This is indeed a remarkable progressive press that will help you keep a steady supply of your ammunition almost effortlessly.

Hornady Lock N Load Auto-Progressive Reloading Press Review posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit Review

People who are into hunting and shooting sport often face the question of whether to hand load their ammunition or not.

While target shooting is a fun and physically rewarding activity, it is also considered as a high-maintenance sport because of the expensive equipment and the amount of ammo you will need for practices and actual hunting trips.

This is why more and more people are considering reloading their own ammo so they won’t have to spend as much money on factory-made bullets as they used to. You will basically be recycling the brass you used for the previous ammo so it’s a lot cheaper.

Aside from being able to save a good amount of cash on ammo, there are other benefits to doing the reloading on your own. First of all, you will be able to make sure that you are putting together a bullet that is extremely accurate and of high quality.

Second, you have the freedom to experiment on your ammo and do some adjustments to improve the overall performance of your gun. Of course, you will need to do some research and make sure that you are following necessary precautions to make sure it’s still safe to use.

Third, it could also be a fun and worthwhile hobby that you can add to your hunting obsession. Once you decide to do it, you will need to find a reliable and efficient reloading machine, something like the Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit.

Key Features

Lee is a well known manufacturer of high-quality firearm equipment and accessories and one of its most popular products is the Classic Turret Press. It is designed for convenient and efficient reloading of handgun cartridges to make the job a lot easier for you.

Impressive Classic Turret Press with four stations

• Fast reloading rate of up to 250 rounds an hour
• Quick and precise caliber switching mechanism
• Lee Safety Beam Scale with manual calibrations
• Automatic Disk Powder Measure for assisting in clearing the priming arm
• Safety primer feed to allow priming arms to suspend effectively
• Case preparation basic tools with a cleaner for primer pocket, case trimming tool, and lubricant
• Lever designed for maximum comfort for both right-handed and left-handed users
• Compatible with Bench Plate System for added stability

Pros

There are a lot of turret presses available in the market but there are only a few models which are as impressive as the Precision Classic Turret Press from Lee. The name itself is enough to guarantee that it is a reliable product.

True enough, this Classic Turret Press exhibits amazing performance with its incredibly fast reloading rate which is capable of filling 250 rounds per hour.

The turret press is designed with four stations and its quick-change mechanism makes the operation smoother and faster. This press is designed with a Safety Primer Feed which works to effectively suspend the priming arms.

The Automatic Disk Powder Measure is added to assist in clearing the priming arm. This kit is put together to provide you the basic tools that you are going to need to complete the reloading task for your ammo.

It comes with a set of tools that you can use to prep the cases. These tools include the case cutter, cleaner for the primer cutter, chamfering tool, and case sizing lubricant. This press is also compatible with the Bench Plate System for additional stability.

Cons

This Classic Turret Press from Lee is efficient and easy to operate for both beginner and expert users alike. However, it is not exempted from having minor flaws. Its safety scale is not electronic and it needs manual calibration. Also, the Bench plate system for added stability needs to be purchased separately.

Comparison

Lee and RCBS are two of the most popular names in the industry, and they are known to put up very competitive products in the market.

The Precision Classic Turret Press is one of Lee’s most popular models while the Rock Chucker Supreme Press is RCBS’s masterpiece. Both are very reliable reloading presses but the latter is a single stage press. In terms of reloading rate, the Classic Turret Press is a more practical option.

Verdict

Lee is known for producing exceptional products and this Precision Classic Turret Press is definitely one of them. It is a powerful mid-range reloading press that delivers both precision and speed.

It is very easy to operate even if you are not a mechanically-inclined person. Aside from sporting an efficient reloading machine, it also provides you the basic tools that you need in order to complete your reloading task.

You won’t have to acquire all those items separately because this entire package has everything you need. And you can get it for a reasonable price.

Lee Precision Classic Turret Press Kit Review posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Setting Up a Reloading Press

When it comes to assembling a reloading press, you have to take into consideration a few important factors. All items involved should be efficient in order to make the whole process go smoothly.

The reloading press mount should be in tiptop form, the bench should be effective and the press should be attached securely to the mount. Here are some steps for properly affixing a reloading press to a bench.

1. Determine the space on the bench in which you want to position the reloading press and make sure that there is sufficient space to move about and that nothing will block your elbows and feet while you are at work. It is ideal if you set aside a minimum of 8-10 inches of empty bench space on all sides and at the back of the press so you can place your tools there for easy access.
2. Place the press in your preferred area on the bench and secure it in position for the time being. Operate its handle to its fullest in order to see that interference will not take place while using the press. If need be, move the unit a little from the border in order to offer clearance for all movable components. Do not move it all the way though so you still get lots of support from the bench.
3. Mark the mounting holes’ spots on the bench while fastening the press securely so it will not move an inch.
4. Work the clamps loose and take away the press. Drill the holes in the areas you have marked by means of a drill or any kind of rotary device with a boring feature. Use bolts with the largest diameters that the holes can take in then drill those holes for a more secure fit on the bolts.
5. Change the press and bring its mounting holes in line with the bench holes then fasten tightly.
6. Position a flat washer on every bolt then drive them through the holes in the bench and press. Knock on the bolts with the use of a hammer if required. Place a fender washer then a lock washer next and finally a hex nut on every end of the bolt where it juts out from the bench’s bottom. Secure these nuts tightly.
7. Take away the clamps. Now you can work on the press and the reloading press mounts easily.

Reloading Advantages

There are lots of reasons why many gun owners are now performing reloading procedures on their own ammunition. One of the reasons is that it allows users to save money when they reload their own bullets. It enables them to recycle the brass and accomplish the procedures by themselves.

Many in fact enjoy the processes involved and they invest in the best equipment including presses, dies and a quality reloading press mount.

By reloading your own ammunition, you will be granted the chance to customize ingredients based on how you want your ammo to perform and work most efficiently with your choice weapons. Depending on the kind of primer used, it might have a range of effects as soon as you point and shoot.

The same goes for the powder used on the bullets as well. There are even people who do research and concoct their own formulas in order to make their ammo perform precisely.

Trying out a variety of formulas will enable you to determine the proper quantity and measurements so you can get the appropriate amount and capacities to make shooting a better experience for you.

Reloading your own ammo will also allow you to make use of obscure ammo. Let’s say you have an old model gun at home that you want to use but there are no modern-day bullets that will suit said firearms. By using a reloading press, you can acquire a source for that little-known ammunition. Reloading will allow you to make use of the gun again.

There are also certain bullets that are not available in particular locations. If the gun store in your locality does not sell the bullets you usually use, reloading will easily solve your issues.

Owning a reloading press at home will not only save you money, it will also save you time waiting for orders since you can prep up empty brasses by yourself without going through all the processes involved in ordering them.

Setting Up a Reloading Press posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Hornady LNL AP Bullet Feeder Review

If you are somebody who is serious about shooting, you will already know all of the benefits of a reloading press. Shooting is one activity that does not come cheap. In fact it is better to spend the money on quality equipment.

Even though there are different ways to reload ammo, with all sorts of equipment, a reloading press is one of the better options available to you. In addition a quality bullet feeder is going to make all the difference to shooting.

The best bullet feeder we have recently discovered is the Hornady LNL AP Bullet Feeder.

If you are searching for a shooting accessory that is really going to make a huge difference, then look no further. This impressive bullet feeder is a really good investment to make. It will make things much easier and shooting will be a more pleasant experience.

This is the answer for increasing both reloading speed and efficiency. If you have experience in this regard, you can expect to see as much as a 50 percent increase in both your speed and your efficiency.

Features

• Compatible with 22 caliber units
• Conversion kit for 30 caliber bullets is available
• Compatible with other presses
• Accommodates various cartridge sizes
• The die is fully case activated
• The bullet will only feed with contact with the case
• It has an automatic shut off
• Created for the Lock-N-Load AP reloading press

Pros

• Easy to adapt to a 30 caliber conversion
• No need to worry about bullet tipping
• The seating die system is efficient once adjusted
• Only one station is used to seat, feed and crime bullets
• Change overs are very easy
• Safe and secure
• Strong
• Will last for years to come
• Fit for purpose
• Unbeatable quality

Cons

• Crimping doesn’t work that well
• May be challenging to set up
• Needs to be bought separately from the Hornady Pistol Bullet Feederm as the die bodies and hopper system are not compatible
• Cast lead bullets can’t be used

Summary

We genuinely found that the Hornady LNL AP Bullet Feeder was one of the very best on the market to date. It comprises of everything that is needed and for an experienced shooter, it is easy to figure out in no time.

If you are beginner, it may take some time to configure out, understand and set up but once you get past it, you will soon discover all the benefits. In terms of the quality of the product, it truly is one of the best on the market to date.

Comparison

Even though we were very impressed with this product, we wanted to see how it measured up to similar products on the market. In order to compare it to other products, we had to take all the features, specifications, pros and cons into careful consideration.

In addition we needed to ensure that we did our research correctly. We therefore took it upon ourselves to spend considerable amounts of time and energy exploring all the other products.

We found two similar products that we decided to examine in greater detail. We ensured that we evaluated these products on an individual basis. We gave them both a very fair chance.

The two products that we decided to compare it to was the Dillon Precision Progressive Reloading Machine and the RCBS Pro Chucker 5 Progressive Reloading Press.

Firstly we took a look at the Dillon Reloading Machine. This looked like a really good product. It is a 2 stage progressive machine, and it is able to load over 120 different calibers.

The fact that it was able to load so many calibers to us was a very impressive feature. In addition, it is able to load both pistol and rifle cartridges making it almost ideal. It comes very well packed with many extras and everything that you will need.

However there may sometimes be problems getting the primers to dispense efficiently from the primer tube. It also does not include a caliber conversion kit, which we found very disappointing.

Next we took a careful look at the RCBS Pro Chucker 5 Progressive Reloading Press. This is an excellent product that can really take your shooting to the next level.

It has an impressive five station automatic indexing, which ensures maximum levels of protection. This is the very first progressive press, which can easily be converted from a five to seven station operation quickly and easily.

Unfortunately some of the parts are plastic and the quality is not that great. The indexing arm and primer feed has a tendency to break. The quality we found was not up to our standards.

The truth is that all 3 products seemed to be fit for purpose. However upon further investigation and examination, we found some flaws that we unfortunately could not ignore.

We then took it upon ourselves to choose the winning product. The winning product has got to be the Hornady LNL AP Bullet Feeder.

Verdict

Having done full comparisons of two other products, we needed to choose our winner. This was actually not a hard decision at all, as it was apparent to us, that the winning product had got to be the Hornady LNL AP Bullet Feeder.

No matter what way we looked at it, this product had more pros than cons. It also had many features which the other two products didn’t have.

One of the biggest winning features to us has got to be the quality. It certainly reached our very high quality standards but unfortunately we can’t say the same thing for the two other products.

If you are seriously looking to improve your shooting experience, you will not go wrong with the Hornady LNL AP Bullet Feeder. Even though it will take some time and effort to set up, once you have figured it all out, you will be very pleased with your purchase. It will take your shooting to the next level guaranteed.

Hornady LNL AP Bullet Feeder Review posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Reloading Kits for Beginners

If you are a gun enthusiast, then you have probably heard about or considered doing hand-loading or reloading your own ammunition. Some hunters and shooters take on reloading their ammo on their own for several different reasons. Most of them think it is cost-effective, while others consider it as a fun and worthwhile hobby.

If you are a newbie hunter or you are someone who’s just starting with your shooting hobby, you’ll surely want to know why having your own reloading kit is a good idea. Here’s a list of reasons why:

It helps you save money for ammo in the long run

Those people who hunt or visit the nearest shooting range quite often know how expensive ammunition can be. This makes reloading their ammo an excellent idea because it lets them save a good amount of money.

Of course, investing in the equipment is necessary and it might take a while for you to break even on the cost of the reloading kit, but it will surely make a difference if you are a frequent shooter.

You can achieve perfect ballistics, dimensions, and quality for your ammo

When you do the reloading of your ammo on your own, you are free to explore new possibilities when it comes to the type and quality of the ammunition that you use.

For example, if you are a rifle shooter, you can improve your long-range performance by making sure your ammo has perfect dimensions and contains a particular combination of gun powder. You can even adjust the concentricity of the bullets, the consistency of your primer pockets, and other things.

It can be a fun and exciting hobby for you

Reloading your own ammo can definitely bring out the tinker in you. Experimenting will tickle your mind and can be a really cool hobby where you can find new things to try and learn.

Reloading Kit Basics

There are quite a number of things that can be found in a reloading kit, the most important of which is the reloading press. There are three different types of presses, namely: single-stage, turret, and progressive presses.

• Single-stage press: This design allows the use of one die while you are loading one case at a time. It is the simplest and most affordable type of press, making it common among shooters. The downside is that you need to switch the die out in between operations.
• Turret press: The design of a turret press is almost the same as that of a single-stage press but it can hold all of the dies at the same time. However, although it doesn’t require as much effort in adjusting the dies, it does provide less rigidity and therefore may result to misalignment.
• Progressive press: The good thing about this type of press is the fact that it is really fast and it can load way more rounds than a single stage press can in an hour.

Reloading experts would highly recommend using the single stage press for beginners since it is way easier to operate and cheaper compared to the other two press types.

Other Equipment in Your Reloading Kit

• Dies: This tool is necessary for de-priming and resizing the brass according to the desired specification. Dies come in sets of cartridges which are basically the ammunition packages. They come in different shapes and sizes. The design of the cartridges is unique for every type of firearm. The most common types are bottleneck cartridges and straight-wall cartridges.

• Powder Scale: Making sure that every round of ammo contains the exact amount of powder. This is why a powder scale is an important tool that you need to have in your kit. You can choose between balance or electronic scales but if you are after accuracy, the electronic scale is the better option.

Also, getting the exact charge weight can be quite challenging, especially since you will be working with a relatively small amount of powder to be loaded on the rounds. Trickler helps in getting just the right weight by dropping one kernel at a time.

• Calipers: Calipers are necessary to make sure you get the dimensions of the ammunition correct. Electronic calipers provide an accurate reading.

Reloading Kits for Beginners posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Which Reloading Press to Buy

If you are a gun enthusiast and you practice shooting or go on hunting trips often, you have probably spent a lot of money on your ammunition already. If by any chance you are holding back on practicing and trying to be a better shooter because you don’t want to spend too much on your ammo, maybe you should consider reloading your own ammunition.

Aside from being a cost-effective option, reloading can also be a fun and exciting hobby. It is a smart way to feed your shooting hobby with a steady supply of ammo.

Types of Reloading Press

For those who are fairly new to this hobby, there’s going to be a lot to learn. The first thing you need to be concerned about is knowing which reloading press to buy. There are several manufacturers of this equipment, and if you have a little background on the reloading process, you may have already encountered the brands Lee, RCBS, Hornady, and others.

Each make and model of reloading press has its own edge over the rest, but it’s really about what your specific needs are going to be that will matter at the end of the day.

So, to help you decide which reloading press is the most appropriate for you and your ammunition needs, here’s a list of the different types of reloading press.

Single-Stage Press

This is the simplest and most affordable type of reloading press that you can find. As implied by the name itself, this reloading press only has one stage which means it can only do one load at a time.

You only have one place to thread the die on so it’s definitely going to take some time to finish. But even though it is time-consuming, it also allows you to be more precise in the reloading process and ensure the quality is spot on.

For newbie shooters and for anyone who’s just starting on this particular hobby, this is the most recommended type of press. It is very easy to use and, if you have time to work on reloading your ammo, it’s a good way to learn and master this craft.

Turret Press

The turret press is a little bit more advanced than the single stage press. Most of the turret press models can accommodate up to 4-5 dies in a turret plate. It is a lot more time-efficient compared to the single stage press.

Since you are doing less than 5 dies at a time, you still have time to check on the precision of the loading process. You will have to add a little extra to your budget because turret presses are a bit pricey compared to single stage presses.

Progressive Press

This press is mostly recommended for experienced shooters who are also knowledgeable with reloading. It’s also what people who need large batches of rounds use.

The more advanced models of this type of press are also equipped to feed primers, cases, and bullets. Operating the press basically just involves pulling the handle. The tricky part is setting up the press. But once it’s dialed in, loading the rounds is going to be super quick and easy.

Just a precaution: beginners are not really advised to take on a progressive press because it’s a bit complicated to operate for those who don’t have as much experience in reloading.

Beginners are often advised to use the single-stage press because it is fairly simple to use and operate. Intermediate reloaders who want speed in their reloading while also keeping check of the quality of every load would do well with the turret presses.

For those who want to save more time reloading and are not really concerned with the price, the progressive press is the perfect option.

These are the three main categories for reloading press that you can choose from. Just know that there are several different models of presses available under each category.

It can be quite overwhelming for a newbie reloader to choose among all the available models in the market. If you’re having the same trouble, you can always consult product review sites to check the bestsellers and start from there.

Which Reloading Press to Buy posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

All About the Progressive Reloading Press

The reloading press is a device that is utilized to reload firearms. Many have chosen to perform this method in order to save money, but there are lots of other reasons why many gun owners have resorted to investing in reloading presses.

There are three main kinds of reloading press and they are the single-stage, the turret and the reloading progressive press. Which one you choose should be based on your needs and the location or workshop where you plan on using the device. The progressive reloading press and its functions will be further discussed in this article, so read on.

The progressive type operates on a number of stages with just one pull of the lever. The majority of the procedures it performs include resizing, putting the primer, refilling gun powder, seating the ammunition and crimping.

These cycles are performed simultaneously. In fact, the progressive kind is the preffered choice among gun owners who prioritize speedy reloads. This kind of press though might need a larger area during operations since users will need to deal with a variety of accessories fastened to the body of the device itself in order to make all cycles efficient and functional.

The reloading progressive press generates the biggest number of rounds per hour based on the kind of caliber the user is working on, and is capable of presenting 500 bullets per 60 minutes.

This type of reloading press also needs less handiwork because the majority of the device comes with all the items that perform the steps by themselves. As mentioned earlier, many have invested in this piece due to the fast turnouts the unit is capable of accomplishing.

Factors to Remember When Buying a Progressive Reloading Press

For beginner gun owners who have yet to perform reloading tasks, choosing a quality progressive reloading press can be a pain. You have to be sure that what you are getting will be the right model.

First and foremost, you have to consider the ammo that you want to produce, and then take into account what you’re utilizing the cartridges for. It is also important to consider the budget you are willing to allot for the press. Remember, progressive reloading presses are not exactly cheap which is why many consider it an investment.

If you are much into short-range shooting, plinking and training for self-defense, a progressive reloading press will do you good. But in case you are looking for consistency and excellent accuracy, you are better off with the single-stage press.

The single-stage press though will require plenty of time and effort on your part so if you do not want to allot plenty of time for reloading, the reloading progressive press will be your best friend.

The progressive press is for you if you usually operate pistols and rifles and are into shooting bigger amounts of ammo. If you have the budget for it, then you can go and purchase one. If you do not mind the mechanical stuff and actually appreciate a unit with plenty of knobs and levers that you can toy with, then this type of press is for you.

The number of stations this type of press has is equal to the number of functions it can accomplish simultaneously. For example, plenty of individuals opt to utilize an individual press for powder if they are producing .223 rounds because precision is the result of constancy.

By and large, reloading pistol rounds will require 4-5 stations while gun owners who often reload rifle rounds in massive volumes might need 6 or more based on their requirements.

It is recommended to go for a quality model as well to guarantee safer reloads. Subpar models might obligate you to consistently halt the procedure and make sure that all of the devices are positioned in their places and do not budge a bit. It will require you to spend more time with reloads so it is recommended that you invest in a quality model.

A quality reloading progressive press will be able to hold all of the tools securely for plenty of rounds. Bad, ineffectual rounds can ruin the whole procedure and even do harm to yourself and the weapons you reload. This is also one of the crucial reasons why the progressive kind and its operations are more inclined towards advanced users and not beginners. While it does a speedy job, there are just plenty of factors you have to keep track of.

All About the Progressive Reloading Press posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Dillon Precision RL550B Progressive Reloading Machine Review

If you own guns and worry about the costs of ammunition these days, it is time that you consider investing in a quality reloading press. You might expect the reloading process to be difficult but the truth is that the learning curve is minimal and if you purchase one that is high quality, you can trust that the whole procedure will go smoothly without kinks along the way.

To get started with your search, you should read some reviews. Here is a review of the Dillon Precision RL550B Progressive Reloading Machine.

Features

• Shellplate kit in the caliber your prefer and includes locator buttons, a powder funnel and shellplate
• Powder measure with regular big (55-60 grains powder) and small (2.1-15 grains powder) powder bars
• Priming system with big and small priming components
• Includes 1 big and 1 small primer pickup tube
• Low primer alarm
• Includes 1 toolhead, 1 powder die, 1 loaded cartridge bin, and a set of regular Allen wrenches
• Instruction manual included

Advantages

When it comes to buying a reloader press, it pays to be armed with the correct knowledge about the product to guarantee that you will invest in a quality model that will rightfully fit your needs.

Reading reviews will help you go the right path. The Dillon RL550B has garnered good reviews thus far and here is what we have to say about the model.

The unit comes with 4 stages that every brass case has to undergo and will result in new bullets for future use. The initial station involves resizing the casing, taking away the used primer and positing a new one.

The new primer will prepare the brass for the subsequent stage which is the powder refill. The powder hails from the hopper and will be measured automatically by the device. This in turn will save you lots of time and make the entire procedure safe too.

The next step involves positioning the bullet on the brass. This is done by manual means: when the shell plate is loaded with the four brasses after the earlier cycle, users will have to set the ammo by pressing on the lever.

To conclude the procedure, the crimping station guarantees that the bullet is seated correctly and then releases the bullet into the tray automatically.

The unit also comes with a primer magazine which contains new primers required for the procedure. Whenever the new primers are taken away from the box, a number of them will be upturned and this is the time to make use of the pickup tube. This pickup tube is a nice device for gun owners to use so they can go through their primers with ease in the correct positioning prior to loading into the magazine.

The unit’s priming assembly can manage big and small primers since there are two pickup tubes available: one for small primers and one for the bigger items.

The RL550B also comes with a removable tool head which allows users to reload a variety of calibers with ease. The dies are fastened to the tool head and can be taken away without hassle by taking out the pins that clutch it in place and slipping it away from the structure.

This feature also gives users the ability to have preset die sets primed with the tool head. If you want, you can get additional tool heads from the company so you can get one anytime you are required to replace calibers.

The model is capable of reloading more than 160 calibers from pistols and rifles and can take on roughly 500 rounds for every hour based on the caliber. It has a durable, heavy-duty construction and is made with excellent materials.

The RL550B also comes with an instruction manual that is easy to follow complete with online video guides. Lastly, it is backed by a lifetime warranty too.

Disadvantages

One disadvantage of the product is that it is it costs a bit more compared to other similar products. You have to purchase dies individually as well. The assembly is a bit complicated for beginners too but for experienced users, the setup will offer no problems. For safety and all-around functionality, the unit requires maintenance.

Verdict

The Dillon Precision RL550B Progressive Reloading Machine is designed to offer a smooth means to reload ammo. This is an ideal product for the advanced reloaders who like working on several calibers. If you are on the lookout for a worthy press to invest on, this model is a great option.

Dillon Precision RL550B Progressive Reloading Machine Review posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com

Redding Reloading – T-7 Turret Press with Primer Arm Review

Reloading on your own is a practice that plenty of gun owners do these days. The more serious ones are very much into it and enjoy all the steps related to the procedure.

Reloading is something that you should consider if you own guns or rifles since it has a range of benefits, among them saving a lot of money when it comes to ammo. One example of a reloading press is the Redding Reloading – T-7 Turret Press with Primer Arm, which we are going to review today.

Features

• 7-station turret head
• Operating handle
• Heavy-duty cast iron frame
• Outstanding compound linkage with positive ram stop
• 1-inch diameter ram
• 4-3/4-inch press opening
• Can accommodate regular 7/8-inch-14 threaded dies plus universal shell holders
• Smart primer arm for taking in big and small primers (sold separately)

Advantages

Redding’s T-7 turret press is used to load bullets and according to some experts, it’s one of the best in the industry when it comes to the turret style of reloading. This is a sizable model that packs quite a punch.

The unit in general doesn’t require much assembly: a few of its parts like the handle and locking nut should be slotted into position first before usage.

For turning the head, there is a convenient short rod with a knobbed end. All you have to do is slip it on one of the three holes provided into the turret’s border. Whenever the turret is turned, every die position clicks into position with a slight noise.

The ram handle comes with an even, 1.75-inch ball which has an ergonomic feel and the handle itself has a length of around 14 inches. The unit has a sizable compound linkage and produces a torque which offers an even stroke that can saw through bigger cases.

The unit has an opening of 4.75 inches with the ram possessing a 3.80-inch stroke. The 1-inch diameter ram comes with a bendable, transparent tube-shaped primer system which can be emptied if required. Furthermore, the body is composed of cast iron for durability and a heavy-duty feel.

One benefit of this unit is that it is capable of mounting a complete set of dies in a semi-permanent manner. If you want to take advantage of the most precision possible from handloads, it has the extra benefit of cataloging cases so it can put in dies in a steady method over the course of the loading procedure.

The case can be slotted into the shell holder before the sizing cycle. Gun owners can leave it there until after the seating cycle.

Following the sizing cycle, the case should be primed by the present priming arm. It is then powder-charged by means of an empty die position with the ram on top of the stroke.

Users can then position a funnel on top of the mouth of the cartridge and follow it up by pouring the powder charge. If you are systematic and consistent, you will not have any problems performing all cycles. Furthermore, taking away the cases to prime lets users tidy up the primer pocket if needed.

The unit has 7 die stations and offers sufficient room to mount dies for 2-3 caliber varieties. The heads are also exchangeable and let users utilize a number of heads with their choice dies on a lone press unit.

Disadvantages

Users might have problems acquiring uniform primer seating due to the tight pockets for the primer even if the system is straightforward. Furthermore, the slide bar’s end was a tad too extended and this hinders the primer ram cup from falling into line with the shell holder holes.

Verdict

The Redding Reloading – T-7 Turret Press with Primer Arm comes with a powerful structure and has an excellent design with great construction. It comes with all metal components and is sure to last for a long period of time and provide nice ammunition reloads.

It is significantly accurate and versatile too. This will fit the needs of amateur reloaders and experienced ones alike. If you have never considered reloading your own ammunition, this is the time to try it out. With products like the Redding T-7 you will have those procedures accomplished in no time without much hassle.

Redding Reloading – T-7 Turret Press with Primer Arm Review posted first on https://keepreloader.blogspot.com