How to Read and Follow a Reloading Guide

At Powder Valley, we carry a wide range of reloading manuals for those who want to enjoy the rewarding and time-saving practice of loading their own ammo. No matter what reloading guide you choose, you’ll find this information listed for each cartridge:

• An overview of its characteristics, including overall length (COL or OAL) and brass trim length
• The types of primers to use
• The types of bullets to use
• Minimum to maximum amounts of powder to use
• The range of velocity and PSI to expect from a reloaded round

Each section will also include information on the type of firearm to use for each cartridge, including its twist, groove diameter, and barrel length.

It’s essential to follow the specifications listed for every cartridge, otherwise, you put your safety at risk.

What Reloading Manual Should Newcomers Use?

There are multiple reloading manuals on today’s market, and each offers its share of advantages. But, for those who are new to the pastime, it’s hard to beat Lyman’s 50^th Edition Handbook. Here’s why:

• The first section of the book contains comprehensive information on reloading techniques and on ammunition in general.
• The manual covers powders and bullets from a variety of manufacturers. This makes it a good choice for reloaders who are trying to decide which brands they like best.
• The data is based on scientific tests conducted by Lyman’s team of experts in the company’s state-of-the-art ballistics laboratory.
• The manual itself is easy to use, with full-color illustrations and large text that make the information easy to follow.

You’ll find the Lyman 50^th Edition Handbook for sale right here on our website, along with manuals from leading companies like Nosler, Norma, and Berger.

Why You Should Never Throw a Reloading Manual Away

Lyman and the other publishers mentioned in this post strive to keep the information in their latest editions as up-to-date as possible. Still, it’s a good idea to hold onto older manuals instead of throwing them away.

That’s because the newest editions often exclude data for older types of powder and projectiles. If you’re a fan of these time-tested products, then you may have trouble locating the information you need unless you keep your vintage manuals on hand.

Another reason to purchase multiple reloading manuals is to have access to information about specific types of ammo. For example, Berger’s handbook has data on very low drag (VLD) bullets that’s hard to find anywhere else. Why limit yourself to a handful of options when you can explore new aspects of the reloading pastime instead?

Can You Trust Online Ammo Information?

When it comes to reloading ammo, the Internet is a great source for information. However, you should only trust data from a product’s manufacturer or other authorized sources, not necessarily online message boards. Relying on a stranger’s “homebrewed recipe” may backfire on you in a big way.

When it comes to the best reloading manuals and other supplies for reloading ammo, Powder Valley is proud to be your one-stop online ammunition superstore. We have all the top-quality products you need – including reloading powders, primers, reloading brass, and more – at the industry’s most competitive prices. Not sure which products are right for you? Our friendly, knowledgeable staff of professionals is ready to assist you in any way we can.