An order of 500 once fired 9mm brass casings will set you back about $35 in the current market, while 500 brand new 9mm brass casings will cost you about $95. The choice is clear here then, buying once fired brass for reloading, no matter what types of bullets you’re reloading, is the right way to go.
Keep reading to find out more as we look at how to get started using brass for reloading.
Getting Started Using Brass for Reloading
The basics of reloading consist of the following; taking an empty casing, new or once fired, seating a new primer, adding your accurately measured powder, and topping it all off with a nice, new bullet in the correct caliber for the brass and load.
What you have just made is a live round or cartridge, and it is ready for loading in a gun of your choice!
Before you can get to this part, you will need your reloading kit. There are many different types and manufacturers, of reloading kits so it makes sense to do your research.
The kit should include all you will need to start loading your own types of bullets.
Additionally, you will need to puchase a reloading die set. These are dies specifically sized to the caliber you are going to reload. For example, if you plan to reload 9mm and 5.56mm, you will need a reloading die for each caliber.
Once you have the machine, you will need your components for making your cartridges. Simply put, the list should entail; your reloading press, correct-sized die sets, cleaning solution, powder measure, primer seating tool, brass casings, primers, powder, and of course, the actual bullets themselves.
Pros and Cons of Reloading Different Types of Bullets
As with anything in life, there are pros and cons to reloading your own bullets, whether with brand new or once fired brass. Here are some of the most widely encountered advantages and disadvantages to reloading your own ammunition.
Pros of Reloading
Save Money in the Long Run
With the high cost of ammunition one of the advantages of self reloading your cartridges is that you can save money; not only can you reload once fired brass casings, but you can also even mold your own lead bullets should you wish to.
Make the Cartridges You Want
A common reason for shooters reloading their own bullets is that you can customize powder loads for different uses. By adjusting the amount of powder and weight of the bullet, you can create cartridges for specific applications. Keep in mind, though, that this is technical work, and you should always refer to the powder load guidelines for your particular caliber.
Make the Cartridges You Need
Yet another reason is that you can make cartridges that are not commercially available anymore or are subject to extremely high cost of ammunition, such as calibers for classic firearms and custom guns.
Cons of Reloading
It Can Be Pricey to Start
The first and biggest disadvantage is that there is a capital outlay, so you may need to spend a bit of money in the beginning. If you are an avid, regular shooter, you will make back your money in no time as you save cash making your own rounds and negating the cost of bullets bought in-store.
It takes Practice
Reloading is an art form, and as such, there is a learning curve. You may feel impatient if you struggle to get powder weights correct or if you struggle to seat primers properly. Fear not, though; like anything, practice makes perfect.
It takes Space
It takes up space. A reloading press, supplies, and other sundries require space, and you will need a dedicated, safe, and secure area with lockable storage to turn into your reloading lab.
It Can Be Risky
Because you are working with explosive primers and explosive and corrosive propellant powders, reloading comes with an inherent risk. But you can negate a lot of the risk by always following the instructions, taking safety precautions, using the right equipment, and ensuring good ventilation.
Choosing the Right Brass for Reloading
Choosing the right brass for reloading is important. Sometimes a reloader will want to use brand new brass casings while other times once fired brass will do the job. New brass from Starline Brass can be an affordable option to once fired brass. If you want more bang for your buck, then cleaned ,once fired brass casings will work, having been quality checked, cleaned, and polished.
Shooters have been using once fired brass casings since the 1700s; 300 years of reloading history can’t be wrong. The fact is that you can reload your brass, shoot it, pick it up and reload it several times. Because of the color and strength of the metal, any deformations can be instantly seen, allowing you to discard the case. Always inspect your once fired brass before reloading it.
Aim High
With the current high cost of bullets bought from the store it’s is a good reason to start reloading your own cartridges. Another reason to reload is that it feels good to do it yourself knowing that the rounds fired from your gun are unique to you.
By reloading with once fired brass, all types of bullets will be at your disposal. All you have to do is buy your first batch of brass casings from Starline Brass right now and begin your bullet reloading journey today.
