Need some input

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14 years 11 months ago - 14 years 11 months ago #2418 by DMCI*
Replied by DMCI* on topic Re:Need some input
Anybody out there that shoots an AR that does not reload is flushing money down the crapper. (Is that plain enough.)

Now on the positive side if you are using a single stage reloader, I would recommend using a Dillon press, which is a resonably priced progressive reloader.

I use my Dillon 1050 with the case feeder to Size, deprime, and reprime my .308 target and .204 Ruger varmit ammo. This takes the drudgery out of the reloading process.

Then I use a Co-Ax single stage press to load the bullets. The Co-Ax Centers the bullet on the case so you get excellent round concentricity without all the bench rest tom foolery.

I can prepare about 200 cases per hour with the Dillon, spending most of my time filling primer tubes.(There is automation for that too from Dillon, but I haven't bought it.)

Not my idea, got it years back from pictures of the Army Marksmanship Unit's reloading facility. Years ago, I bought several thousand brass and primers for each of my calibers including .45 ACP, so case life is not an issue, even though I shoot quite abit.

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Last edit: 14 years 11 months ago by DMCI*.

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14 years 11 months ago #2420 by Edge
Replied by Edge on topic Re:Need some input
"Anybody out there that shoots an AR that does not reload is flushing money down the crapper. (Is that plain enough.)"


I would have to argue with that statement. How much is your time worth? I can buy reloaded .308 ammo, 200 rounds, for less than $100. (even a better deal for .223)

You failed to mention trimming your brass, which adds extra time also.

It is cheaper to reload, when all you are adding is the components, but like I said earlier, how much is your time worth? Factor in how much you make on your job. Whether you make $10, $20 or even $100 per hour, your reloading costs just went way up! I enjoy reloading and will always do it, to both save money and produce the best rounds for my guns, but there are cheaper ways if you just want 'plinking' rounds.

Nice rifle by the way. Here's mine:



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14 years 11 months ago - 14 years 11 months ago #2425 by DMCI*
Replied by DMCI* on topic Re:Need some input
You know, that's what makes horse races; Gentlemanly disagreement. Good discussion though.

However, I like to think that my handloads compete with Federal Match loads, which is what my police sniper aquaintances use. I just looked at some at the local FFL in 300 WM and they wanted over $2/shot. Somehow, that takes the fun out of shooting.

My long range rifle is a W70 CFA in 7WSM in an A5 stock. Picture below shows 7mm VLD bullets, shown with .30 175 HPBT on end for comparison. Largest 7mm is 180 Berger VLD.

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14 years 11 months ago #2426 by Scaup58
Replied by Scaup58 on topic Re:Need some input
>>>>Factor in how much you make on your job.<<<<

There's a difference though, I LIKE reloading!

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14 years 11 months ago #2433 by mtrmn
Replied by mtrmn on topic Re:Need some input
My general blasting load uses 145 gr FMJ "bulk milspec" bullets from Widener's. 42 grains surplus 4895 with a CCI military primer. Whatever military case I happen to pick up. Light crimp with a Lee factory crimp die. And they still do less than 1" @ 100 yds in my Bushmaster BAR10.
I have not tried match bullets or going to great pains with my loads yet, so I don't know what the gun will do with match-grade ammo. Been having so much fun burning the bbl off it I haven't taken the time.

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14 years 11 months ago #2434 by RandR
Replied by RandR on topic Re:Need some input
"I use my Dillon 1050 with the case feeder to Size, deprime, and reprime my .308 target and .204 Ruger varmit ammo. This takes the drudgery out of the reloading process."


Okay, I don't want to high jack this topic but, since you brought it up. I have a Dillon XL650 and I am thinking about tooling up for .308. Why or why not? Thanks, Bob.

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14 years 11 months ago - 14 years 11 months ago #2443 by DMCI*
Replied by DMCI* on topic Re:Need some input
If you think about the question from a motion study view, loading large quantities of ammo on a single stage press is labor intensive, but short (.308) or smaller rifle cases are a gift on the Dillon as discussed.

However, since I weigh all my powder charges, the Dillion powder system while perfectly adequate for pistol rounds doesn't work as well for ball powder. So I do my bullet seating on a Co-Ax.

I also use match primers and bullets, and Lapua brass for my .308 rounds. I also demand as a minimum sub MOA performance from my rounds.

If you have a Dillon with a case feeder, you just need to replace the feeder guide plate and put in the appropriate tube lower ends and adjust the wedge.

Proof as they say is in the puddin'. This accuracy on a CONSISTANT basis is the primary benefit.

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14 years 11 months ago #2444 by RandR
Replied by RandR on topic Re:Need some input
Would you recommend RCBS dies for general use, over the Dillon dies?

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14 years 11 months ago - 14 years 11 months ago #2446 by DMCI*
Replied by DMCI* on topic Re:Need some input
I spend the few extra bucks and buy match grade dies where possible.

I got over confident and pulled the last shot (the far left hole on right target above.)
Last edit: 14 years 11 months ago by DMCI*.

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14 years 11 months ago #2453 by BUILDING MY SASS
Replied by BUILDING MY SASS on topic Re:Need some input
Dang, after starting the other thread, I forgot about this one,,,,,,well the title is "Need some Input" use it all you want....RandR----No jack taken...LOL
BMS

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