Beginner’s Guide to Handloading Ammunition
Thinking about handloading your own ammunition? You’ve probably heard about it from mates or seen it online, and now you’re ready to dive in! Handloading can be incredibly rewarding when done correctly, offering cost savings, improved accuracy, and the ability to create custom loads you can’t buy off the shelf. But before you start, it’s essential to understand the basics and follow safety guidelines.
Why Handload Your Own Ammo?
People handload for different reasons:
- Economical: Save money over time.
- Accuracy: Fine-tune loads for better performance.
- Customization: Build rounds you can’t find in stores.
Once you know your reason, it’s time to look at the equipment you’ll need.
Essential Handloading Equipment
Here’s the bare minimum for safe and effective handloading:
- Quality press
- Powder measure
- Scales (digital or beam)
- Dies
- Priming tool
- Case trimmer*
- Case lube
- Deburring tool
- Quality reloading manual (with powders you plan to use)**
- Sturdy workbench
- Handloading tray
- Shell holder
- Vernier calipers
Nice-to-Have Extras
- Powder trickler
- Electronic powder dispenser
- Case tumbler
- Case neck turning tool
- Headspace comparator
*NOTE: Some say you can skip the case trimmer, but oversized cases can lead to dangerous pressure issues. Invest in one, it’s your safety on the line.
**NOTE: Get your quality reloading manual and read it! Better yet, get multiple and read them all!
Setting Up Your Handloading Station
Bolt your press and powder measure to a sturdy workbench. These are the core components. Follow the manufacturer’s manual to set up your sizing die. A quick-change system can save time if you plan to switch between sizing and seating dies often.
Apply sizing lube sparingly, too much can cause cases to stick in the die. With the correct shell holder installed, you’re ready to size your case. This step removes the old primer and preps the case for trimming.
Case Trimming and Priming
Check your reloading manual for trim length. For example, ADI World Class Powders recommends 1.910” for 6.5 Creedmoor. Trim any case longer than this to avoid excessive pressure. After trimming, deburr the case and prime it if you haven’t already.
Charging and Seating
Refer to your manual for powder charge and cartridge overall length (C.O.L). For 6.5 Creedmoor with AR2209 powder and a 140gn Hornady A-Max, the starting load is 36 grains with a C.O.L of 2.820”. Start at the minimum load and make 5–10 rounds for testing.
Set your powder measure, confirm with a calibrated scale, and visually inspect each case for proper fill. Then adjust your seating die gradually until you reach the correct C.O.L. Lock the die in place, and congratulations, you’ve handloaded your first round!
Next Steps
Head to the range for testing and stay tuned for our upcoming posts on load development and pressure signs.