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I just did an update for 9mm using current prices. Reloading 9mm without needing brass runs $110/1,000 using 115gr coated cast bullets from Bayou Bullets. It's $121/1,000 using 115 FMJ from Precision Delta. This compares to $238.85 for Winchester white box ($47.77 in 200 rd boxes). That's a savings of $117.85/1,000. If you use new brass from Starline, add $130.50. This would make factory ammo cheaper. Again, there's no reason to use new brass for range work, but if you must, then buy 1,000 rds of factory ammo, then keep that brass.

Chas.

george72 wrote:How much money do you guys save per round vs buying new, lets say .223? 5 cents?

In TFC Podcast Episode #7, the In the Crosshairs segment was on reloading. I did an specific cost comparison for 9mm, 40S&W and .45ACP. The savings are huge, absolutely huge. My comparisons were using your own brass, but I also gave the cost of new brass from Starline. I rarely buy brass because so much is available at the Club. When I do buy brass, it's used brass when I get a good price. I haven't bought new brass in years and it was for 9X23 because you aren't going to find that at the range.

If you'll send me an email at Podcast@TexasFirearmsCoalition.com and ask for a comparison for .223, I put that in the next Podcast episode too.

Chas.

The next TFC Podcast feature topic will again be reloading. I've had a number of questions generated by Episode #7.

Here's a bit of trivia gained from some experimenting for the upcoming episode. Using my Dillon XL650 with a case feeder, it takes an average of 5 minutes and 20 seconds to load 100 rounds. That works out to a theoretical production rate of 1,120 rds. per hour at a rather relaxed pace. However, the real world production rate at a relaxed pace is 720 rds. per hour. The difference between the theoretical rate and the actual production rate is the average 3 minutes required to 1) reload the primer feed on the press; 2) weigh/confirm the powder charge; 3) dump 100 primers into the Dillon RF-100 primer machine and turn it on; and 4) put the newly manufactured 100 rds into a 100 box for final QC check before dumping into a bulk ammo can.

The podcast episode will talk about upgrades to the XL650 that will increase the actual production rate substantially.

This has been both fun and enlightening.
Chas.