How to .308 reload

[gamehunter]

I'm looking to get into reloading for my new rifle and I have never done it before wondering what I need and how hard is it. Also curious about cost advantages over just buying from the store. Any help would be appreciated thanks

[simpleman75]

Tuned in

[sir shovelhands]

There is no cost advantage because you'll just end up shooting more. But, for an apples to apples comparison: after my first use of brass, I reload match 308 ammo for about $0.50 a round, whearas the same round would be $1.32 from midway (in a box of 20).

Its not difficult to reload, but you need to read up pretty well before you start. Helps to have someone show you too.

Most will suggest getting a top of the line press and dies. At this point i wish i had done so, but you should note that you can still make good ammo on cheaper presses with cheap dies: i can still put together sub moa loads on my lee turret, but definitely could wring more out of it with a co-ax or wilson arbor press.

[sir shovelhands]

Oh and for what you need besides bullets, brass, powder, and primers: a press, dies, good scale (dont skimp on this), a powder funnel, a bullet puller (optional but super useful, especially in the start), a case trimmer, chamfer tool, and some calipers would get you started.

Edit: add in a tumbler too.

[kmitchl]

Not difficult. Startup can be a bit spendy. You don't have to buy the very best to get started. Look for items on CL, EBay, and at gun shows. Buy primers and powder locally to avoid the Hazmat shipping charges. Save your brass. Some public ranges will sell you brass for less than new would cost. Most of that is once fired. 30 cal bullets of average quality are around 30 cents each. I started reloading 20 years ago and still learn new stuff. It's nice to be able to tune the ammo to what your rifle shoots well. I can usually tune loads to shoot to 1 inch and frequently to one half inch. Gives me confidence in my guns. Then I just need to do my part. Join the addiction!

[howabouttheiris]

The real cost savings is in match grade ammo. If I was shooting an AR10 at 50 yards, I would shoot the cheapest Tul I could find.... but for long range you can easily pay $2.00 plus per round.

[hoythitman]

It is something that has a pretty good start up cost. However, if you shoot a lot it will save you money. Especially if you are going to be reloading match ammo. I can give you a hand setting up a loading bench if you decide to go that route. I'm on the NW Side of SA so not too far from you. Also have some extra stuff, including 308 brass I can help with.