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Posted: 7/8/2016 4:59:05 PM EDT
| My buddy and I are hopefully going to get a reloading set up going. Neither of us have any experience or equipment. We will be reloading a few different calibers: 6.5 Grendel, 6.5 Creedmoor, 30-06, .223 and maybe some 9mm. To get started we are going to get a kit (single stage press). Because there are two of us reloading at the same time what would we need to be the most efficient? I am thinking another press and powder measure/dispenser would allow us to load two different calibers at the same time. Thoughts? |
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First and foremost, I am not a reloader -- yet.
How would you load 2 calibers at the same time with only one press? I could see one guy loading powder while the other uses the press to seat the projectile. But not seeing how you could do 2 calibers at once unless you had 2 presses or 2 kits. Going to watch this and see what the pros have to say on this subject. |
| Not sure where you are going with this - but I suppose you guys could get 2 inexpensive single stage or turret presses and each do a couple of the steps independently - like you decap and process the brass (tumbling as needed) and he could prime and load the powder/bullets? Then every other batch you switch responsibilities so you both learn the whole process? |
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Brass prep does not always require a press.
Trimming, camfer and deburing, primer pocket crimp removal, priming cases (can be done off the press on on),powder charge primed cases. But, overall, I would say a second press would be in order to actually speed up your reloading to the point that it would be worth 2 peoples time. A single stage would get old very quickly with 2 people trying to load different calibers at the same time and you would be asking for trouble having too many components out at the same time. IE mixing up powders or primers. KB waiting to happen. Also, learning to reload is not a speed fest. Spending the time to learn the process and create quality ammo is important. Adding a second person may hinder your ability to focus on what you are doing. If you do decide to do this with your friend, I would suggest a turret press. And only load for 1 caliber at a time. All other components for any other caliber are stored somewhere off the bench. |
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I would say one guy prep brass, the other load. If you handed off otherwise I'd say you're risking a squib or double charge. And if you're loading Creedmoor, I'm assuming you're loading for precision? That's not something you try to rush. Not saying you would, but I would concentrate on the process not time savings. |
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Quoted:
. . . Because there are two of us reloading at the same time what would we need to be the most efficient? I am thinking another press and powder measure/dispenser would allow us to load two different calibers at the same time. Thoughts? OTOH, one person can take the responsibility for "material handling while the other is the press operator. If there is nothing for the "material handler" to do at some point, he can *carefully* do other stuff like case prep, etc. And you can exchange places for variety and experience. I'd advise you to do that until you know exactly how you will reload (we don't all do it the same way), where the bottlenecks are in your process . . . and from there buy redundant equipment if and when you need it. Until then the only redundant pieces of equipment I'd acquire is a second caliper and a second stool or chair if you will work seated. |
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So the reason this is a two man operation is I live in an apartment = no space to set up a bench. My shooting buddy/ good friend has a house. We both want to get into reloading so we are discussing going in 50/50 on a reloading set-up in his garage/basement (pending PITA GF approval).... I understand the points being made about the importance of taking your time and leaning the process, especially when loading for precision which we will be doing. There will be times when its just one of us or the other at the bench but there will also be times when the two of us are working together.
I am trying to work out what the two of us working on the bench at the same time would look like: The different scenarios I am thinking of are: 1) loading two different calibers on two different presses simultaneously seemed like it could work. However I do see how this increases the margin for error dramatically. 2) An assembly line type set up using two single stage presses loading one caliber at a time. 3) Assembly line using one single stage press - my concern here and why I am exploring the two options mentioned above is there wont be enough stuff to do, and one guy will end up just watching the other much of the time, chatting, causing distractions. I am leaning towards a single stage or two single stage presses as we will be reloading for precision. That is unless 9mm and 223 plinking ammo jumps up in price/ availability becomes limited I will likely continue to buy it... Not really worth reloading at the prices I have been getting it for online in bulk. My understanding is that a turret press is for quickly producing rounds that are not handloaded for max accuracy/precision. Could a turret press be used in conjunction with a single stage press to produce precision loads? Would the best two man/ two press set up be 1x single stage/ 1x turret? |
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Do one caliber, two presses can still be used. One a deprime. and it goes in a bucket with index card , saying deprimed. pass that off to guy doing prep, whatever gets done for prep, write on index card.
Now that brass can go to second press and be sized, back in bucket and write sized. Now more prep, like trimming. when done write on index card. Time to prime, when done, write on index card. Time for powder charge, and bullet seating. You will want to do this at the same time. when done write down all load specifics on card. There is plenty to do with one caliber and you both can stay busy. Each process done is closer to a loaded round. Changing to a different caliber requires set up time. I would only change calibers due to being out of supplies, or i have loaded what I need. From ther you could stop and be assured you have labeled the progress of your bucket full of brass. Alot will be dependent on prep tools you have, brass cleaning method. But you and your pard should be able to work out a system with a descent amount of production. |
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To add to my post. A 2 press operation. First press is deprime all brass, Once this is done it is open to be a bullet seater die press.
Because the second press will be sizing. If you follow what i'm saying. Just keep track of what process your brass is at , for when you stop for what ever reason. Myself I use the square ice cream containers from wally martinez for my brass while loading. |
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Quoted:. . . I am trying to work out what the two of us working on the bench at the same time would look like:
The different scenarios I am thinking of are:. . . I am leaning towards a single stage or two single stage presses as we will be reloading for precision. That is unless 9mm and 223 plinking ammo jumps up in price/ availability becomes limited I will likely continue to buy it... . . Add to that 9mm and 223 ammo will rise in price and decline in availability again very soon . . . unless you believe that the corrupt one will somehow be trumped in November. Doesn't matter whether new laws are passed, the stuff will just disappear into other reloader's basements. If you think that's wrong, even now, excellent 9mm ammo can be hand loaded for $0.09 + $0.03 + $0.015 per round or $6.75 a box of 50. Less if you use lead or coated bullets or cheaper plated rather than the 0.09 Berrys I used as an example. Similarly, Excellent 223 ammo tailored for YOUR rifle can be made $0.09 + $0.035 + $0.067 + $0.02 (brass allowance) = $$0.212 per round. A little less if you don't need "military" primers. The issue is whether you have the time, the progressive press to make it go fast enough, the interest in consistently accurate plinking ammo, etc. It takes very little time to get a second press. Very little. Don't pre-buy the wrong stuff you won't need. |
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Ok, I have thought about this particular problem a lot. *I* was trying to think of a way to get the GF to help out when I was loading, but I never came up with a good method for 2 people to work togeather on the same project. There were always holes. Then I backed up and looked at the process, and I think I can help, so, here goes.
#1 buy 1 bench mounted press, not 2. My recommendation would be a Dillon 550, but you can get by with an ebay turret press. Don't be afraid to buy a used Dillon, even if it is all calibers you don't reload. You will gain much insight into the mechanics of the press if you have to take a used one and re-hab it. For the Rifle, you DO want new dies, however. Spend the $$ that you would have put into press #2 into accessories, particularly case prep accessories. Do not be afraid of a progressive press, properly adjusted, it performs all of the same functions as a single stage with LESS opportunity for error. With a Dillon 550, you will spend a bit more time learning the press and the process, but will be 300% (estimate) more productive and safer to boot. (more on that later.) #2 You can do all of your case prep out of a bucket, on a TV tray. Tumble the brass (at the site) so it is immaculate in whatever fashion you choose, then put the brass in Ziploc bags in a bucket. Lee makes some awesomely simple brass prep tools that are very cheap but get the job done like a champ. Maybe a de-capping die in a hand press, then hit primer pocket, case length and chamfer, and back into a Ziploc. If you did not choose a progressive press, you can also hand prime now, just be sure to drop a desiccant pack in with the primed brass bag. If you choose a brass prep station or specialized tools (like a swager for crimped brass, or a small single stage for depriming), bolt it to a sturdy board, and then c-clamp the board to your tv tray, You ARE using a heavy duty wood TV tray, right? #3 on loading day, one guy pulls the handle and observes the process, the second guy plays step and fetch keeping the supplies handy, lubing brass, opening bullet boxes, loading primer tubes as required, and packaging the finished product. You will load one caliber until you run out of supplies to do so, then you will put that stuff away and start on another. Never have more than one caliber in operation, ever. Finish #1 then move on 100% to #2. The only exception is that guy #2 can have a tumbler going of a different caliber, but it stays in until a changeover happens. I am always happy to help new loaders so feel free to PM/EM me with any specific questions. |
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You are brand new to reloading. So buy 1 kit. Remember no kit is complete, so you will need extra tools to add to the "kit". Top of the page in Reloading Tools and Accessories is where you will find the lists of what you need. You will find things you like and dislike about the kit you bought. I would start with a single stage press, be sure it's a cast steel press, not aluminum. This means the second reloading setup will be bought with experience. No mention of budget, so I'll guess you won't want the cheapest kit, but good quality.  So I suggest the RCBS Rockchucker kit. The green press on the right on my bench. You will not out grow this high quality heavy duty press. The blue presses are Dillon's in their storage position. Not what I suggest you start with. Notice the scale is at eye level (RCBS 505 that comes in the Rockchucker Kit) with trickler next to it. Powder measure next to scale for good work flow. Remember what I said about liking some things in the kit and not liking others. I sold off the RCBS powder measure that came in the kit and got the Hornady (red) pictured. I later switched to Redding powder measures, but that another story. (the RCBS PM is ok, I just didn't like the powder scale setup)
Do some reading at the top of the page and buy a good reloading manual and read the "how to reload" section in front. I suggest Lyman 50. A good read also. |
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My friend and shared a reloading room in his house for a few years. Don't over think this. There is plenty enough to do to keep 2 guys busy and productive without having any safety issues.
We both competed in high power rifle silhouette competition so volume loading was the norm. We only used one press but a second light duty press could come in handy. We NEVER loaded 2 different loads let alone 2 different calibers at the same time but we may have worked on 2 different calibers at the same time during brass prep. There's plenty to do when reloading and doing it with a friend can be fun. Motor |
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Don't even think about sharing equipment which is to be located at only one guy's house. It doesn't work especially for the guy that has to come over to load at your house. Tried it and it doesn't work. Buy your own press and
tools and your friend should buy his. Reloading takes too much time to visit. You'll want to do your reloading in steps, one step today and maybe the next step tomorrow or days later. Is your buddy going to sit at your house for an hour just waiting for brass to be polished in the tumbler. I agree it's also an accident waiting to happen. You need to concentrate on every part of the process and not depend on someone else. Main thing is that the person that has to go to the others house will very rapidly learn that this is not a good setup. If you DO partner then make sure you both understand that if one partner is unsatisfied that one will sell his share and agree on a price beforehand. It doesn't work--don't partner on reloading equipment--one of you will want out of the partnership in a very short time!!!! It'll be a great deal for you if the equipment is at your house as your friend pays half and rarely gets to use it. Even best friends won't like this arrangement. Too much sharing costs involved. Every order of a pound of powder or primers or bullets will have to be split. A total pain keeping up with components and prices. You going to have a his and mine shelf? Don't do this! You'll be unpartnered in two months I don't care how good of friends you are. Discuss what happens if one doesn't want to be partners anymore. Your time schedules of work etc. will not work out with getting together to load either. Just a warning. |
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Quoted:
So the reason this is a two man operation is I live in an apartment = no space to set up a bench. My shooting buddy/ good friend has a house. We both want to get into reloading so we are discussing going in 50/50 on a reloading set-up in his garage/basement (pending PITA GF approval).... I understand the points being made about the importance of taking your time and leaning the process, especially when loading for precision which we will be doing. There will be times when its just one of us or the other at the bench but there will also be times when the two of us are working together. I am trying to work out what the two of us working on the bench at the same time would look like: The different scenarios I am thinking of are: 1) loading two different calibers on two different presses simultaneously seemed like it could work. However I do see how this increases the margin for error dramatically. 2) An assembly line type set up using two single stage presses loading one caliber at a time. 3) Assembly line using one single stage press - my concern here and why I am exploring the two options mentioned above is there wont be enough stuff to do, and one guy will end up just watching the other much of the time, chatting, causing distractions. I am leaning towards a single stage or two single stage presses as we will be reloading for precision. That is unless 9mm and 223 plinking ammo jumps up in price/ availability becomes limited I will likely continue to buy it... Not really worth reloading at the prices I have been getting it for online in bulk. My understanding is that a turret press is for quickly producing rounds that are not handloaded for max accuracy/precision. Could a turret press be used in conjunction with a single stage press to produce precision loads? Would the best two man/ two press set up be 1x single stage/ 1x turret? 
I live in an apartment. My scale and books are on a table behind me. A workmate a few C clamps and some cheap 1x6 and you can make a setup that you can setup as needed and takes up a small amount of closet space when torn down. Just something to think about. |
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I think you could make it work...safely.
Here's how to do rifle cases since that's what you want to do the most of: Buy a good quality single stage kit, you don't want to cheap out on this item because a good press will be very precise, strong and last forever. The RCBS Rockchucker Kit Dryflash mentioned is excellent. One guy (you) will be tumbling brass at home. On ''Reload Day'' you take it to your buddy's house and he lubes, sizes/decaps and hands them off to you who will do the trimming and chamfering. That would end the session because they need tumbled again to remove the lube before loading. Or...you could keep going with the sizing, trim/chamfer routine on another caliber. You'll tumble the sized/prepped cases at home. Next ''Reload Day'' you prime cases, he throws powder charges, you seat bullets. If you want to crimp use a Lee Factory Crimp Die. He can crimp while you sit around and BS or go home to tumble more brass. You two can trade off doing most of these operations so you both learn what is involved. Pistol rounds will be much easier since there isn't any prep work. You guys can change off priming, throwing powder, seating bullets etc. Loading with a friend will be a lot more fun. |
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Sounds a pita Reloading is not a team sport 99% of the time And this |
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How about a three-man operation?
http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_6_42/458226_Time_lapse_movie_of_our_reloading_session_today_.html |
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I would get a good single stage press such as a Rockchucker or Hornady Lock and Load to start and learn the operations. Once you've got it down, keep it for brass prep and possibly some of your precision loads, and get a good progressive as your second press (I prefer Dillon, but the RCBS and Hornady progressive presses are reportedly also good). |
| Me and a Buddy went in 1/2s on our first setup (Lee Pro 1000). We split everything for the first year. It was a bit of a pain to keep up with. I kept a spreadsheet of the savings vs factory ammo and we broke even we started buying our own components. That has made it MUCH easier to keep up with. Sometime in year 2 I bought a Dillon 650 (we didn't split). I have no problem letting him use the 650 as he has helped me out countless time over the years. I wouldn't want to go 1/2s with someone who wasn't a really close friend, but it can work under the right circumstances. |
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Something I have done while letting someone use a bench mounted press is to size brass in my LEE nutcracker press. I mostly use that press to deprime, but it's handy if I want to work on a few pieces of brass on the side instead of interrupting the set up on the bench press.
Then there is trimming, delubing, and so on. A used press could probably be found for sale locally without too much trouble. Quoted:
So the reason this is a two man operation is I live in an apartment = no space to set up a bench. My shooting buddy/ good friend has a house. We both want to get into reloading so we are discussing going in 50/50 on a reloading set-up in his garage/basement (pending PITA GF approval).... I understand the points being made about the importance of taking your time and leaning the process, especially when loading for precision which we will be doing. There will be times when its just one of us or the other at the bench but there will also be times when the two of us are working together. I am trying to work out what the two of us working on the bench at the same time would look like: The different scenarios I am thinking of are: 1) loading two different calibers on two different presses simultaneously seemed like it could work. However I do see how this increases the margin for error dramatically. 2) An assembly line type set up using two single stage presses loading one caliber at a time. 3) Assembly line using one single stage press - my concern here and why I am exploring the two options mentioned above is there wont be enough stuff to do, and one guy will end up just watching the other much of the time, chatting, causing distractions. I am leaning towards a single stage or two single stage presses as we will be reloading for precision. That is unless 9mm and 223 plinking ammo jumps up in price/ availability becomes limited I will likely continue to buy it... Not really worth reloading at the prices I have been getting it for online in bulk. My understanding is that a turret press is for quickly producing rounds that are not handloaded for max accuracy/precision. Could a turret press be used in conjunction with a single stage press to produce precision loads? Would the best two man/ two press set up be 1x single stage/ 1x turret? Here's my recommendation. Get a single press set up. Then both of you learn and master the basics. After that you will have a clear idea about how to proceed, until then you are trying to work through the process with a mental analysis without hands on understanding of the processes. |
| Why not just listen to experience?? Don't partner on reloading equipment !! You can be brothers or best friends, doesn't matter. You can't spend the amount of time it takes at a friends house reloading nor does your friend want you at his house often and hours at a time. You're going to immediately think I wish I could reload a while but don't want to go over to the friends house. Plus he may have company, be at work, or at the gym, or shopping and if he's married or has a girl friend then I can tell you that they don't want you around. Friends or not!! Just buy your own separate equipment. Then if you do want to reload together you can on either of your equipment or eithers home. Those who have said it'll be fun loading together know not what they are talking about. You can hunt together, fish together, or hang out together as friends but NOT reloading at the others house. Get yourself a portable bench like mentioned that you can set up in your apartment and take down if necessary. |
| Like was said above, loading 9mm is a waste unless you like to load up ammo for a hobby. 9mm is so cheap right now, it'd be silly to even try to come up with a reason to handload it. I can go to 2 different places right now and buy 100rd packs [win and CCI] for under $20a pack. |
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Ditto Reloading is not a team event!
Reloading is sort of like the Decathalon, with many stages! Buy a RCBS Rockchucker Supreme Master Kit! ($75 mail in rebate) Buy a caliper Get a case Trimmer Then all you need die and shell holders Buy the Lyman 50th for handgun reference. Get a small Lyman Polisher Dragging stuff from one place to another is not effective. I can see where with loading handgun on a single stage where one person primes sized and flared cases and puts in to loading blocks I can see where then another person places powder in the cases in the loaded trays I can see where then the other person then seats bullets. But, you would have to accumulate a lot of brass! But, with say a Dillon RL 550 B a lot gets done in one stroke! You can buy a conversion to use regular shell holders and load lower volume round single stage. |
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Lots of things a two guy team can do together by dividing up reloading tasks. But one of them is NOT trying to reload for two different caliber cartridges at the same time.
Run one batch at a time to completion before changing dies, scale settings, or powder.There is too much chance for a mistake with disasterous consequences. |
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One person lubes and resizes the bottle-necked rifle cases and throws them in a bin. The second person pulls them out one-at-time and trims with a power trimmer.
Once trimmed they can go in a tumbler to remove the lube. I can't think of any other two man operation that will work as well. |
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