Which manual?

[Dougan]

As you've probably noticed, I'm having some trouble with with some of the more advanced terminology involved in reloading.
I've read 'The ABCs of Reloading', but it obviously doesn't cover the details.

I've seen the price of some of the reloading manuals that have been suggested - so would like to get it right first time...

So...What is the best manual/book available for explaining all the details about reloading :?:

Shouldn't take long for everyone to agree on this one... :P

[Mike357]

You wanna bet? :lol:

[Robin128]

I've got 5 manuals..Sierra is the best.

:)

[Alpha1]

For some one just starting out get a copy of the Lyman re loading manual and a copy of Lee reloading manual. Read the introduction to re loading once you are up to speed then you can look at the Sierra. Hornady etc manuals you need to learn the ground rules first take it slow the F class and bench rest stuff is way down the line. Dont let them rush you.

[tikkathreebarrels]

For some one just starting out get a copy of the Lyman re loading manual and a copy of Lee reloading manual. Read the introduction to re loading once you are up to speed then you can look at the Sierra. Hornady etc manuals you need to learn the ground rules first take it slow the F class and bench rest stuff is way down the line. Dont let them rush you.

+1 from me, this is sound advice.

I use Lee's Modern Reloading Manual which is packed with "how to" information and advice, I cross check on loads with the Hodgdon Data Manual.

I'd expect any manual by the propellant/bullet manufacturers to be reliable and good: Vit, Speer, Sierra. Having said that the Vectan load "leaflet" is a bit thin and only covers their poudres.

Don't worry if they're not this year's edition, most popular chamberings have been around for longer than you or I.

[Chapuis]

Vectan actually produce a reloading manual and not just the pamphlet that all powder manufacturers produce. The manual only covers it's own powders just as many other manuals such as the Vhitavouri one does, but it's general information section on reloading is one of the most comprehensive of all reloading manuals.

[Dangermouse]

Dougan,
I question the need for you to buy any more manuals. You have taken the sensible if not expensive step of buying the ABC's of re loading - as I did, but you quickly realise that there is not much covered in the book and you read so many other items referring to mysterious practises which surely should have been covered in your manual.

The important thing is that you have the basic knowledge of how to build a safe round, everything else is a mixture of gaining greater accuracy or as some can argue, mind games if you are in to competitions.
I suggest that you give consideration to saving your money for another bit of kit and continue to read re loading posts n forums. I think the Moderators will not mind me giving Accurate Shooter http://www.accurateshooter.com/a plug as they have an enormous wealth of information, and an active forum - although no where near as friendly as FB UK, which is why I know you will continue to return here! Certainly there is enough current information on that site to write another book.

Don't forget to use You tube as a research tool as well, some posts are a little questionable, as any Forum, but if you read a few you will find the middle ground and know if you want to try something or not,

I refer to re loading as a a drug habit - you think you can handle it but it takes up more and more of your time and money,

Good luck chasing the Dragon,

DM

[dromia]

From a previous post of mine.

"A good Handloading manual is a must, I would recommend the Lyman as they don't provided reloading components so don't have bias that component makers manuals do. The new edition has updated data and they do Cast Boolit loads as well.

The how to section is very good and is easy to follow.

I would also recommend The Complete Handloader by John Wooters as a good how to book without data."

[TattooedGun]

I'm probably off on my own, but these days i really don't see the need for a book on reloading with the wealth of information at your fingertips with the internet..

Of course be careful of dubious posts and information - try and get multiple sources...

but the information is definately online if you look for it...

[dromia]

Problem with online information is there is so much of it and most of it contradictory, just look at this board alone. Information should never be confused with knowledge.

Unless you have some knowledge and experience to sift and place value on internet information it can indeed be a dangerous place to start.

A good manual, and there are many, lays out the fundamentals and basics in a way that is tried and tested by safely starting generations of handloaders on their way.

Once you have learned and understood the foundations of handloading then the internet can be a helpful place.

What I do know from seeing lots of new shooters and handloaders come through my clubs is that those that dabble with the netty to start with are dangerous and I won't shoot beside them, and those that have sat down digested a good handloading book, found out the questions they needed to ask are far safer.

I think it is a temperament thing, some people are better suited to the discipline of handloading than others and from what I see on a daily basis those that solely rely on the internet for their information are the ones that shouldn't be handloading.