Thread: Reloading novice

Originally Posted by ocean-hunter

Hey team,

Abit of a long shot, is there anyone rotorua based that would have the time, for me to come and spend some time watching them reloading? I wouldn't mind getting into it, but want to do it the right way and safely.
I have a 308 and 223. The 308 I'm wanting to stretch it out abit more if possible, it's currently 18" and dpt suppressor. Realistically in your guys experience, would the max distance you would achieve.

Cheers Bevan

Greetings Bevan,
Totally agree with Pommy that the first step is to buy a reloading manual. My first one was the Speer no 9 in the mid 1970's. As far as max distances this is likely to depend as much on you as it does your kit. Handloading is not something that you learn over night. As with most things some planning is needed. Your long term goal may be to develop extra long range loads but a more realistic short term goal may be to produce loads that equal good factory loads which may not be as easy as it first seems.
I also would not spend too much time on UTube. There is some good stuff but much of it is poorly disguised marketing.
You have already started out well with the .308 and .223. Both are a doddle to get good loads.
Rather than watching someone else hand load a better start would be to have an experienced handloader mentor you while you load your first cartridges and explaining along the way the importance of the steps and making sure you don't stuff it up. You may wish to join your local NZDA Branch. This would be a good place to locate someone with the experience and time to help you out. Don't hesitate to PM me if you have some specific load questions.
Regards Grandpamac.