Introduction
Reloading ammunition isn’t just a hobby; it’s a craft that allows you to take complete control over your shooting experience. Imagine tailoring each round to your specific firearm, achieving pinpoint accuracy, and dramatically reducing the cost of your ammunition. That’s the allure of reloading. It’s about precision, personalization, and, ultimately, a deeper connection to the shooting sports. This guide dives deep into the world of 9mm reloading, assisting you in selecting the finest equipment to embark on this fulfilling journey.
Reloading, however, is a responsibility. It demands respect for safety and a commitment to precision. This article is designed to give you the information you need to get started, but it is imperative you do additional research and training. Always remember, a safe and informed reloader is a happy reloader.
Safety First: Essential Gear and Practices
The cornerstone of successful reloading is unwavering adherence to safety protocols. Before you even think about handling powder or primers, make sure you have the right gear and a disciplined approach.
Protecting your eyes is paramount. Always wear sturdy safety glasses designed for shooting and reloading. These glasses should provide complete coverage and withstand impact. Goggles are also a good option, especially when dealing with the potential for small debris to fly up.
Hearing protection is equally crucial. Consistent exposure to the noise of reloading can damage your hearing over time. Opt for either ear muffs, which provide a robust barrier against sound, or ear plugs, which fit snugly into your ear canals. Many reloaders use both, especially when working with progressive presses.
While not strictly mandatory, gloves are often recommended, particularly when handling chemicals or if you have sensitive skin. They provide an extra layer of protection and can also help with gripping small components.
Your attire also contributes to safety. Avoid loose-fitting clothing that could get caught in the machinery. Consider wearing clothing made of natural fibers like cotton, as they are less likely to melt and stick to your skin in the event of an accidental flash or fire.
Beyond gear, your reloading practices are equally critical. Always work in a well-ventilated area. This helps to dissipate any fumes from powder or cleaning solvents. Ensure the area is clean and organized. Clutter is the enemy of safe reloading.
Precision is critical. Always follow the manufacturer’s published load data meticulously. This data provides specific instructions regarding the correct powder charge, bullet type, and overall cartridge length. Deviating from these guidelines can lead to dangerous pressures and potentially catastrophic failures. It’s also a good practice to weigh your powder charges at first to ensure consistency. As you gain experience, you might be able to make adjustments, but always do so with caution.
Never work while distracted. Reloading requires your full attention. Turn off the television, put away your phone, and eliminate any other potential sources of interruption.
Before each reloading session, inspect all your equipment carefully. Look for signs of wear and tear, cracks, or any other damage. If you find any issues, replace or repair the affected component immediately.
Finally, always store your components and loaded ammunition safely. Powder and primers should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from any potential sources of ignition. Loaded ammunition should be stored in a secure location, away from children and unauthorized individuals. Clearly label all ammunition with the specifics of its load.
Core Equipment: The Fundamentals of 9mm Reloading
The heart of any reloading setup lies in its core equipment. These are the tools you’ll rely on to perform the fundamental operations necessary to craft your own 9mm ammunition.
The Reloading Press
The reloading press is the workhorse of your reloading operation. It’s where the critical steps of resizing, priming, seating, and crimping are performed. The type of press you choose will significantly impact your efficiency and the speed at which you can reload.
There are several types of presses. Single-stage presses are the simplest and most affordable. These presses handle one operation at a time, meaning you’ll need to manually feed the case into the press for each step. While slower, single-stage presses are excellent for beginners, as they allow you to learn the reloading process one step at a time, and are often more accurate.
Turret presses allow you to mount multiple dies at once. This allows you to rotate the turret to quickly move from one stage to the next. This improves your speed and makes it easier to see each step.
Progressive presses are the most advanced type. They perform multiple operations simultaneously, dramatically increasing your reloading speed. These presses are ideal for high-volume reloading. They require more initial investment and can be more complex to operate.
When choosing a press, consider the build quality, the availability of dies, and, of course, your budget. Well-known brands like Lee, RCBS, Hornady, and Dillon offer excellent presses known for their durability and performance. Look for a press with a solid construction and smooth operation.
Reloading Dies
Reloading dies are the tools that shape your brass and seat the bullets. Each die performs a specific function.
Full-length sizing dies resize the entire case, ensuring it fits properly into your firearm’s chamber. They are typically the most common type used by reloaders.
Seating dies are used to insert the bullet into the case and determine its overall cartridge length (OAL). Crimp dies can often be combined with the seating die to provide a final crimp for the bullet.
When selecting die sets for 9mm, consider well-established brands like those mentioned previously. These brands offer high-quality dies that are known for their precision and durability.
Proper die adjustment is critical for both safety and accuracy. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when setting up your dies. Pay close attention to the seating depth and the crimp.
Powder Scale
Accurate powder measurement is crucial for safe and consistent reloading. The powder scale is the tool that allows you to measure the exact amount of powder for each cartridge.
There are two main types of scales: digital and beam scales. Digital scales are typically faster and easier to use, but they require batteries and can be sensitive to environmental factors like drafts. Beam scales are mechanically simple and highly accurate, but they require a bit more practice and are typically slower to use.
Accuracy is paramount. Ensure your scale is calibrated properly before each reloading session. A high-quality powder scale is essential for maintaining consistency in your loads. Recommended brands include RCBS, Lyman, Hornady, and Frankford Arsenal.
Powder Measure/Dispenser
A powder measure/dispenser facilitates quick and consistent powder dispensing.
There are different types of powder measures. Manual powder measures dispense powder from a reservoir into a scale pan. Automatic powder measures are often integrated into progressive presses, dispensing powder automatically as the press cycles.
Look for a powder measure with adjustable settings that allow you to dial in the exact powder charge you need. The goal is precision and consistency.
Well-known brands offer reliable powder measures. Hornady offers a good powder measure. Lee also offers a popular and budget-friendly option for a powder measure, for reloaders on a budget.
Case Trimmer
Case trimming ensures that your brass cases are all the same length. Consistent case length contributes to better accuracy and ensures the cartridges feed reliably in your firearm.
You can choose between manual and motorized case trimmers. Manual trimmers require you to turn the case by hand, while motorized trimmers are typically faster and easier to use.
Calipers
Calipers are used to measure the length of the case and the overall cartridge length (OAL). Accurate measurements are essential for ensuring that your cartridges fit properly into your firearm and for achieving consistent performance.
Digital calipers are easy to use and provide accurate measurements. Always zero your calipers before taking a measurement. Quality brands such as Mitutoyo, Hornady, and Frankford Arsenal manufacture reliable calipers.
Case Preparation Tools
These tools are used to prepare the brass cases for reloading.
A priming tool is used to seat the primer into the primer pocket. You can use a hand-held priming tool or a press-mounted priming tool.
Case cleaning options include tumblers and ultrasonic cleaners. Tumblers use media to polish and clean the brass, while ultrasonic cleaners use sound waves to remove dirt and grime.
Case lube is used during the sizing process, to help the case pass through the sizing die smoothly.
Optional But Highly Recommended Equipment
While the core equipment is essential, certain optional tools can significantly improve the quality, efficiency, and enjoyment of your reloading process.
A case tumbler is invaluable for cleaning your brass. Clean brass not only looks better but also reduces friction during sizing and helps ensure more consistent powder charges.
A bullet puller is a lifesaver when you make a mistake. It allows you to safely remove a bullet from a loaded cartridge.
A bullet seating micrometer allows for even more fine-tuning of the seating depth.
A brass sorter or case inspector helps you to identify cases that are damaged or otherwise unsuitable for reloading.
A primer pocket uniformer or swager ensures consistent primer seating depth, which contributes to more consistent ignition.
Selecting the Right Equipment for Your Needs
Choosing the right equipment is a personal decision. Your choices should depend on your budget, reloading goals, available space, and experience level.
Begin by establishing a budget. Reloading can be an expensive hobby, but you don’t need to break the bank to get started. Focus on the essential equipment first, and gradually add more specialized tools as your needs evolve.
What do you want to achieve with reloading? High accuracy requires different tools than high-volume reloading. Are you aiming for precision target loads, or are you primarily looking to save money on plinking ammunition? Your goals will influence your equipment choices.
Consider the space you have available for your reloading setup. Do you have a dedicated reloading room, or will you be working in a more limited space? Make sure you have enough room to comfortably work and store your equipment and components.
Read reviews from experienced reloaders. There is a wealth of knowledge to be found in online forums and gun clubs.
Step-by-Step Reloading Process
Here is a simplified overview of the reloading process:
Start with case cleaning and inspection, ensuring your brass is in good condition.
Next, size and prime the cases.
Then, flare or expand the case mouth to accept the bullet.
Dispense the powder with accuracy.
Carefully seat the bullet.
Apply the case crimp to hold the bullet in place.
Finally, perform a final inspection of the loaded round, ensuring the dimensions are correct and there are no defects.
Conclusion
Choosing the best 9mm reloading equipment is a crucial step towards achieving your reloading goals. By investing in quality equipment, prioritizing safety, and understanding the fundamental principles of reloading, you can create high-quality ammunition that is tailored to your specific needs. Remember that the best equipment is the equipment that suits your needs and budget.
This can be a rewarding hobby. If you take the time to learn the fundamentals, prioritize safety, and invest in good equipment, you will be well on your way to creating custom loads that will deliver great results.
Enjoy the journey, and remember, safety is paramount.
FAQs
How often should I replace my reloading dies? Reloading dies, if properly maintained, can last for years. The die itself should not need replaced as long as you are cleaning it and using proper case lube.
What is the best brand for beginners? The best brands will depend on your budget. Lee offers many budget-friendly reloading options.
How do I troubleshoot reloading problems? The most important thing is to remain calm and methodically troubleshoot the issue. Start with the most obvious possibilities, and then work through the reloading process to identify where the problem is. Check your load data, ensure your components are correct, check your equipment, and consult online forums or experienced reloaders for assistance.
