Minimum Equipment

[Steve Koski]

Say somebody wanted to get into reloading on the cheap, just to see if they like it. What's the cheapest way to do it (safely)?

[ept000]

My recomendation is to look for one of the many complete kits that are available. The cost of a decent single stage press does not seem to be as cheap as it once was, so I would say check out something like a Lee Turret or the Pro 1000 kit. They come with dies and a powder measure, ready to go. Most presses can be sold for most of what you paid for them, so you're not risking much if it turns out you don't like the hobby.

[Bush Pilot]

I would spend less on a press if it allowed me to afford a better scale.

[BigSlick]

Cheapest route, pick up a used single stage and powder measure, you can go with used dies

Buy the scale, calipers and anythin needed to trim or process brass new

[creophus]

I think the cheapest would be to find a friend with a press and go over and use theirs or ask to borrow it.

[colorado4wheel]

Get the ABC's of reloading, a single stage press, good scale, dies, powder measure, trays, Harbor Freight dial calipers, tumbler (IMHO).

[slowride]

Lee anniversary single stage kit.

[ISUSteve]

The Lee Loader and the "How to load a 38 Special and kill a beer" video.

[918v]

I vote for a Lee Hand Press, Lee dies, and Lee dippers.

You can use a factory round to set-up the OAL. Use your head when using the dippers, and you should be good to go.

[Steve Koski]

What does a hand press, dies, and a set of Lee dippers cost a feller?

[Pitmaster]

I tried to get the ABC's of Reloading but found out there an updated version is being published and will be available in June. I'm going to wait on that.

[918v]

$30 for the press w/priming kit
$25 for the dies
$7 for the dippers

Total: $62

[4eyes]

Buy the Lee dies, you don't need the shellholder.

Ditto creophus' answer. It's the CRB way. "Specially if the buddy is a Blue Press cover model named Jawjaette.

[creophus]

Pit...I apologize up front if I misread your post, as I do my best to not look at that avatar of yours!!

Any way, a new version of the book isn't always the best thing to have as there may be errors or misprints.

[Pitmaster]

Pit...I apologize up front if I misread your post, as I do my best to not look at that avatar of yours!!

Any way, a new version of the book isn't always the best thing to have as there may be errors or misprints.

True. But OTOH the errors or misprints in the old version should be fixed and with some of the new products I'm thinking it would be better to wait. I do keep my eye out for one in the used book section of garage sales.

I do know what you are saying though. The original version of "The Joy of Cooking" is a classic. It was upgraded about 10 years ago after 40+ years and not near as good. Its since been upgraded again but I haven't kept up with its status.

I'll change my avatar sometime. I'm beginning to get disgusted a little bit too. Maybe I'll post a poll.:patriot:

[Steve Koski]

Pitmaster's avatar ROCKS!

[4eyes]

Yep. Looks like a left handed Santa during a hot Florida August.

[ISUSteve]

Where did he get it? It does say pitmaster in the background.

[Pitmaster]

Pitmaster's avatar ROCKS!

:blush5:

[Pitmaster]

Where did he get it? It does say pitmaster in the background.

The picture came from a cartoon with a caption "Chat Room" " Handsome Male, 25, athletic, professional, dark hair..."

A guy on DC.com photshopped the holster, name, and DC logo in it for me. Since DC and GT have banned the avatar for nudity (even though I told them he's wearing a thong), I'm wanting to get a pair of camo boxers photoshopped on him. In the interests of modesty.:yikes:

[ISUSteve]

The picture came from a cartoon with a caption "Chat Room" " Handsome Male, 25, athletic, professional, dark hair..."

A guy on DC.com photshopped the holster, name, and DC logo in it for me. Since DC and GT have banned the avatar for nudity (even though I told them he's wearing a thong), I'm wanting to get a pair of camo boxers photoshopped on him. In the interests of modesty.:yikes:

Don't do that. Thats half the picture right there. Please don't change your avatar.

[creophus]

Somebody give that man some pants! A DECENT PAIR OF PANTS!!!

[creophus]

Don't do that. Thats half the picture right there. Please don't change your avatar.
Don't listen to Mr. Upskirt! :yikes:

Change that avatar!

[Pitmaster]

I'll meet the internet halfway. As is here, but modest elsewhere!. I'm off to shoot for an hour and blow some paper holes. Its about 50 and sunny. I need sunshine.