Bullet Points - Why Reload?

James tells us about his plans for his camping trip.  Something about dragging maxpedition bags filled with rocks behind a hummer, more video with a Barrett M99, and "some other stuff."

Here is the Barrett M99 video:



Here is the Maxpedition Volta Battery Case we are talking about:



Rob tells James and Dan about Rangelog.com.  Dan is a bit skeptical, but he likes the idea of using it for reloading logs.

Rob will be shooting the Area 5 Championships on June 10 as a part of squad 109.

One of our "rebellious" listeners emails in a question:

I have a show suggestion. I got into reloading this year, and now I'm considering casting my own bullets. I'm somewhat confused regarding the lack of a reloading manual when you cast your own. Where do you get reliable load data? I'm looking to cast for 44mag, 38 special and 357mag. Do molds come with reloading data? I've read that there are some standard loads for specific weights of WC and SWC. Is this info reliable? Thanks for your help. - Bob

James recommends the Lyman load data book.  Also, when using a unique alloy, find the load data for the most similar bullet(same shape, weight) and use that as a reference point.  James also recommends going the community route with loaddata.com.  He has found lots of good loads for specific components.

Rob, Dan, and James jump into why people reload.  Rob mentions customizing special lead-free hunting loads for California and the ever quotable James helps us get into the minds of the California animals: "It's not like they eat lead shot because it tastes good."  He also tells us about the politicians.

James also tells us how to "stick it to 'em" by casting your own lead-free bullets with Bismuth.  Plus, it's slightly heavier than lead.

Dan uses a big word and dashes our hopes in one fell swoop: "It's a misnomer that you're going to save money reloading."  He then backs up and punts with: "There are cost savings involved... over time you will definitely recover that cost."

Dan says he started reloading to create more accurate ammunition.  Rob points out that even reloading for precision ammo is still saving money compared to similar commercial ammunition.  Dan gives us a specific example of how a hunter shooting just 200 rounds can still save money reloading.  He also notes that with less common calibers, commercial ammunition is much more expensive and he probably wouldn't be able to shoot his .45-70 if he didn't reload.

James goes into the specific numbers of reloading .45 ACP.  He currently reloads 50 rounds of .45 ACP for less that $2 with range brass and cast bullets.  Rob gives an example of loading .308 WIN.  James recommends buying factory second bullets.

Dan reminds us to extrapolate the cost of brass over several loadings to get the true cost.  Dan also talks about the hobby aspect of reloading and the satisfaction, etc. "If I can't be shooting, I'd rather be reloading."

James also brings up the fact that reloading helps you have the ammunition you need even during shortages or times when ammo is unavailable.

James show off his .40 S&W jacketed hollow-point bullets made from 9mm cast bullets jacketed with 9mm cases:

Call (660) 207-1239 and leave questions on the voicemail or e-mail me.
 
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