Reloading 9mm....is it even worth it?

[Krackels]

I can reload 9mm at around $8/100 plus my time.

So the $100 or so dollars I save per thousand makes it worth it.

[RobFMJ]

Originally Posted by Fastsc92

As far as equipment is concerned, is it feasible that I can start to get into the hobby by getting a single stage press and a nice die set and be on my way? I was thinking of something like this:

Single Stage Press

Die Set

By getting a 4 step process I figure I should be able to get good results from each shell. Granted its not the fastest reloading method, but it should do the job. Am I mistaken? Do I need to get a tumbler to polish before I resize and load?

Single stages are great presses (despite the fact that everyone seems to think you need to buy a Dillon to be happy). Look into something like this:
http://www.rcbs.com/guide/master_reloading_kit.aspx

Its a good way to get started (and probably the best single stage press out there). All youll need then is the dies for whatever caliber youre reloading and its respective components (bullets, brass, powder, primers).

If you're still not quite sure, get this:
http://www.cabelas.com/prod-1/0018787214944a.shtml
and read up (has a great intro to reloading).

[Fastsc92]

WOW

You guys are so helpful, and again, I want to extend my thanks.

I was doing a little searching and there is a place near me that has this Lee kit for only $73, and I can get a die set for roughly $24, and pick up a tumbler for about $57. This is my new wish list for a total of $154. What do you think?

Reloading Kit
Die Set
Tumbler Set

[RobFMJ]

Eh, I've heard mixed reports on the durability of the Lee kit. When I started, i looked at it too, but I went to Cabelas and saw em side by side and walked out with the RCBS, and I'm glad I did.

[jtkratzer]

I have 157 pieces of 9mm brass someone can have if they want it...it's on the pay it forward thread as well...

If you're going to shoot a lot, get at least a turret press and my personal preference is a progressive. You pay more, but you'll reload more and faster and you'll probably not have to/want to upgrade as soon.

[fredj338]

Originally Posted by Fastsc92

WOW

You guys are so helpful, and again, I want to extend my thanks.

I was doing a little searching and there is a place near me that has this Lee kit for only $73, and I can get a die set for roughly $24, and pick up a tumbler for about $57. This is my new wish list for a total of $154. What do you think?

Reloading Kit
Die Set
Tumbler Set

SOmething too concider, the Lee kit cale is crap. You'll want ONLY carbide dies, they are easily worth every penny of extra cost. A single stage is a good way to learn but expect no more than 50rds/hr. So if your time is worth anything, you'll want to go to a progressive os some kind.

[SteveW1958]

With a progressive press you will spend considerably more to set up your bench but you will crank out 400-500 rounds in a hour. As with any hobby you will probably end up getting there but how much you spend on equipment that you grow out of is the catch. Either way it's a fun addition to the hobby.And you will either save money or shoot more. Wait till start loading rifle cases for your AR's when you get the dreaded BRD.

[NWXD40]

get a refurb lee pro 1k,tumbler and a scale. add brass,powder and primer some brain power and you are good to go.

I used this setup to pump out thousands of 9 in the past.

leeprecision.com

[morbidking]

got my 9mm down to $2.30 casting my own lead

[Cannibul]

I'm going to get a progressive press. I've used the Dilllon. I've used the RCBS and I have used the Hornady Lock and Load. I'm going to buy the Hornady.