Reloading: theory v. reality

[Charles L. Cotton]

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.

[C-dub]

That sounds pretty cool.

I've thought about getting into reloading for a few years now and the XL650 would be my dream setup. However, I might start off a little more grounded and go with a single stage for one of my more unique rifle calibers to get the hang of things before jumping into mass reloading.

[mupepe]

Looking forward to the episode! I still only use a hand press from Lee but the biggest slow down is my diligence/paranoia and OCD in wanting everything to be uniform - OAL, exact powder charges, crimp, etc.

But it's very rewarding, cost efficient and most importantly fun.

[rotor]

Looking forward to the episode! I still only use a hand press from Lee but the biggest slow down is my diligence/paranoia and OCD in wanting everything to be uniform - OAL, exact powder charges, crimp, etc.

But it's very rewarding, cost efficient and most importantly fun.

Agree completely. I use a Lee turret. I may not be as productive as Charles but I have fun. Cost efficient-not so much. 9mm is so cheap now that it is not really that cost efficient. And I do have to pick up the brass- ouch.

[WTR]

I always reload for rifle as I'm an accuracy nut. nut, not so much with pistol calibers

[Beiruty]

On my AP with both Case feed and bullet feed, max cranking rate is 1,200 rds per hr (I can do it). However, I would be happy maintaining 400 rds to 600rds per hr effective rate. Also, time to clean and preparing the cases is not included.

[george72]

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

[Jusme]

On my AP with both Case feed and bullet feed, max cranking rate is 1,200 rds per min (I can do it). However, I would be happy maintaining 400 rds to 600rds per hr effective rate. Also, time to clean and preparing the cases is not included.

Not to pick nits but I would like to watch you reload 1200 rounds per minute, I don't think I can even fire them that fast.

[parabelum]

I really need to get into reloading again. Way faster and more fun then running to Walmart .

[tomtexan]

On my AP with both Case feed and bullet feed, max cranking rate is 1,200 rds per min (I can do it). However, I would be happy maintaining 400 rds to 600rds per hr effective rate. Also, time to clean and preparing the cases is not included.

Not to pick nits but I would like to watch you reload 1200 rounds per minute, I don't think I can even fire them that fast.

I would like to see that too!

[Charles L. Cotton]

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.

[Beiruty]

I was asked that question for 9mm. My components cost not including brass is 12cent for 9mm rd brass case, with plated bullet. Lowest om the shelf is 20 cents to 22 cents per rd plus tax. Only might be cheaper if Free shipping is included.

That is 8 cents to 10 cents saving per completed rds. It would only make sense to reload 9mm if you shoot at least on the average 100rds each weekend.

[Charles L. Cotton]

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.

[mupepe]

I started saving up brass of different calipers from factory ammo some time ago. That way when I get a new set of dies I already have the brass. I mostly shoot 308, 223 and 45. 45 and 223 are everywhere at PSC so I have way more brass than Ill ever need but I am still OCD about picking up every one I shoot haha 308 isn't as common but I have saved up factory ammo brass for years and I never shoot hundreds in a day so it's a non issue.

Looking forward to the episode! I still only use a hand press from Lee but the biggest slow down is my diligence/paranoia and OCD in wanting everything to be uniform - OAL, exact powder charges, crimp, etc.

But it's very rewarding, cost efficient and most importantly fun.

Agree completely. I use a Lee turret. I may not be as productive as Charles but I have fun. Cost efficient-not so much. 9mm is so cheap now that it is not really that cost efficient. And I do have to pick up the brass- ouch.

Yeah I'm not sure I would be able to justify 9mm even using the numbers Charles posted but then again I don't own anything in 9mm. I have thousands of pieces of 9mm brass though in case I ever decide to!

[troglodyte]

What I thought you were going to say...

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 onto the floor, pick up the 35 primers you can find and 4) put the newly manufactured 100 rds into a 100 box for final QC check before dumping into a bulk ammo can.

I've gotten back into reloading. Mainly loading range ammo and some specific self-defense rounds. While it tends to be cheaper I also find it relaxing...until I drop the tray of primers.