03-20-2011, 12:35 AM
LR1955 Wrote:As for a chronograph -- not necessary unless you really get into the science.
At your stage of the game though, you ought to look at a decent press, powder scale, measure, and the other things that allow you to endure the boredom of handloading without becoming totally stupified. I would not advise you to get a progressive unless you know exactly what to focus your attention on at every stage and know 'what right looks like' at every stage.
Oh yes, you don't always have to spend top dollar on reloading equipment. It is pretty hard to damage a thirty pound steel reloading press and used ones are about half the price of new ones. OTOH, it is real easy to damage a plastic and aluminum reloading press so less is not necessarily better.
LR1955
MM- All good advice for a beginner.
I currently use:
RCBS Rockchucker Supreme Single Stage press
Chargemaster 1500 Powder Scale and Dispenser
Forster and Redding Dies
Hornady and Sinclair Headspace gauges
Hornady Comparator
Digital Calipers
Franklin Arsenal Tumbler for Brass
Giraud Trimmer (Expensive and not recommended unless you trim a lot of brass)