Reloading Supplies

About Reloading: An Essential Skill for Shooting Enthusiasts

Reloading has come a long way since the time of Swedish King Gustavus Adolphus, who first instructed his troops to use paper cartridges for powder and ball. Today, reloading allows shooters to not only save money but also customize ammunition for their specific firearms, improving accuracy and overall shooting performance.

At BOSQUE Outdoors, we offer a comprehensive range of reloading supplies, including brass cartridges, powder, primers, presses, scales, and measures, along with many other essential reloading accessories.

Our extensive inventory includes top brands like Hodgdon, Alliant, IMR, Accurate, Hornady, Speer, Sierra, Nosler, Barnes, and Berger, all available in our online store.

Reloading FAQs

Why Should I Reload Ammunition?

Reloading offers several key benefits:

  • Cost Savings: Reloading can save up to 50% on common calibers and up to 90% on exotic calibers such as .460 S&W Magnum, 10mm, or .38 Super.
  • Improved Accuracy: Tailor your ammo to match your firearm's specifications, which enhances ballistic performance and accuracy.
  • Custom Loads: Reloading allows you to prepare ammunition for a variety of applications, from hunting to competition shooting.
  • Continuous Supply: Ensure you always have a steady supply of ammunition, especially during periods of shortages.

What Equipment Do I Need to Reload?

The basic equipment you’ll need for reloading includes:

  • Dies for the specific caliber you're reloading
  • A reloading press
  • A scale for measuring powder

If you're unsure what equipment is best for you, feel free to reach out to our expert support team at BOSQUE Outdoors for recommendations.

How Do I Reload Brass Ammunition?

Here’s a basic guide to reloading brass ammunition:

  1. Save your spent brass casings.
  2. Clean the brass to ensure proper feeding into your firearm.
  3. De-prime the brass by removing the used primer.
  4. Resize the brass with a resizing die to return it to its original dimensions.
  5. Belling the case mouth allows a new bullet to be seated.
  6. Prime the case by inserting a new primer.
  7. Add the appropriate powder charge.
  8. Seat the bullet to the correct depth within the case.
  9. Apply pressure to form the case into the desired shape.
  10. Inspect your finished cartridges to ensure proper primer seating and bullet depth.
  11. Store your reloaded cartridges in appropriate containers for future use.

For all your reloading supplies, visit BOSQUE Outdoors.

Types of Reloading Presses

There are three main types of reloading presses:

  • Single Stage Press: This press holds one die at a time and requires multiple steps to resize and seat bullets, making it time-consuming but precise.
  • Turret Press: With multiple dies mounted, turret presses allow faster reloading by reducing the need to switch dies manually.
  • Progressive Press: Capable of handling multiple dies and casings at once, progressive presses are ideal for high-volume reloading.

Turret Presses: A Balance Between Speed and Precision

Turret presses offer an efficient reloading method by allowing multiple dies to be used simultaneously. With advancements like auto-indexing mechanisms, turret presses have become even faster and more convenient.

Turret Press FAQs

What Makes a Turret Press Different?

Unlike single-stage presses, turret presses allow multiple dies to be mounted and used without switching them out, making reloading more efficient.

Can I Use a Turret Press for Both Rifle and Pistol Cartridges?

Yes, turret presses are versatile and can handle both rifle and pistol cartridges with ease, making them suitable for a wide range of calibers.

Are Turret Presses Good for Beginners?

While turret presses offer more flexibility than single-stage presses, they may take a bit more practice for beginners. However, with the right guidance and practice, turret presses can be an excellent reloading tool.

Can I Upgrade a Turret Press?

Yes, turret presses can be upgraded with additional accessories like auto-indexing or extra turrets, improving efficiency and allowing quicker caliber changes.

Pistol and Rifle Powders: Understanding the Differences

Pistol powder is designed for handguns and typically burns faster to match the shorter barrels of pistols. Rifle powder, on the other hand, burns slower to accommodate the longer barrels and higher pressures of rifles.

Pistol Powder FAQs

What Should I Consider When Buying Pistol Powder?

  • The type of ammunition you're using
  • The bullet weight
  • The desired velocity
  • Your firearm's characteristics

It’s important to choose a powder that fits your specific needs and consult reloading manuals for proper guidance.

Can I Mix Different Pistol Powders?

No, it’s not recommended to mix different pistol powders as each type is designed for specific applications and burn rates. Mixing powders can lead to unsafe pressure levels.

Rifle Powder: Optimized for Performance

Rifle powder is specifically engineered for high-pressure cartridges and long barrels. It's finely tuned to deliver consistent performance in various rifle calibers.

Rifle Powder FAQs

How Should I Store Rifle Powder?

Store rifle powder in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture, to maintain its stability over time.

Can I Use Rifle Powder for Pistol Cartridges?

No, rifle powder is formulated for high-pressure cartridges and is not suitable for pistols, which require a faster burn rate.

Shotshell Powder: Powering Your Shotgun

Shotshell powder is used in shotgun ammunition and is optimized for delivering power and performance whether you're bird hunting or shooting competitively.

Shotshell Powder FAQs

How Does Shotshell Powder Differ from Rifle and Pistol Powder?

Shotshell powder burns at a rate specifically designed for the unique characteristics of shotguns. It must disperse shot or launch slugs effectively without the same pressures seen in rifles or pistols.

Can I Use Shotshell Powder in Other Gauges?

Some shotshell powders can be used across different gauges, but it's critical to consult load data to ensure safety and accuracy.

Find All Your Reloading Supplies at BOSQUE Outdoors

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced reloader, BOSQUE Outdoors offers everything you need for successful reloading. Explore our wide selection of powders, presses, bullets, and more.