Ever wondered how expert shooters save money and get the perfect ammunition for their firearms? The secret often lies in reloading. Instead of buying expensive factory rounds every time you hit the range, reloading lets you create your own custom cartridges. It’s a rewarding hobby that puts you in control.
But starting out can feel overwhelming. Which press should you buy? What dies are necessary? The sheer number of components and starter kits on the market creates a major headache for beginners. You worry about picking the wrong gear, wasting money, or worse—creating unsafe ammunition. Finding a reliable, all-in-one solution seems almost impossible when you are just beginning this journey.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what makes a great reloading kit. You will learn the essential tools you need to start safely and effectively. By the end of this post, you will know precisely which kit matches your shooting goals and budget, empowering you to start crafting your own reliable ammo with confidence. Let’s dive into the best reloading kits available today!
Top Reloading Kit Recommendations
- The Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit has long been the king of reloading kits. We took the benchmark of single stage presses (Rock Chucker Supreme) and surrounded it with the equipment you need (except dies and shell holders) to start handloading ammunition like a pro
- The backbone of this reloading kit is the legendary Rock Chucker Supreme single stage press. It combines easy operation, ambidextrous handle, outstanding strength, and versatility to earn that coveted spot on your reloading bench. Featuring a spacious 4.25" loading window that is perfectly suited for loading longer magnum and a central pivot design that provides outstanding leverage to size the toughest cases
- The Uniflow-III Powder Measure - is the most accurate Uniflow that RCBS has ever produced. The UPM-III throws consistently accurate charges reload after reload. The exacting tight tolerance allow powder to pour uniformly from the measuring cylinder and into a case, thereby eliminating the hazards of overloads caused by clogging when charges are dumped
- Comes with M500 Mechanical Scale - Featuring a proven two-poise design that lets you weigh up to 505 grains with plus/-0.1-grain accuracy, the RCBS M500 Sale also offers RCBS' magnetic damping system for fast readings, and maintenance-free movement.
- INCLUDES - Supreme Master Reloading Press, Universal Case Loading Block, .17-.60 Debur Tool, M500 Mechanical Scale, Uniflow III Powder Measure, Hand Priming Tool, Hex Key Set, Case Lube Kit, Powder Funnel and Speer Reloading Manual.
- Includes the Lee Safety Scale which is very sensitive
- Has a power funnel to fill the case
- A chamfer tool camfers the insdie and outside of thecase mouth
- Convenient Caliber Swapping: Makes caliber conversion quick and easy
- Durable: Made with precision cast steel construction for eliminating all movement and flex for enhanced accuracy
- Unviersal: Accept standard dies (7/8" x14)
- The Frankford Arsenal Essentials Reloading Kit makes the reloading process simpler, enjoyable, and equips you with quality tools to create precise ammunition.
- Encompasses every aspect of the reloading process from resizing, depriming, and bullet seating, with the F-1 Single Stage Press at the heart of this kit.
- Intentionally developed with more premium tools to eliminate the need to upgrade obsolete products over time.
- Trust in the quality, precision, and expertise of Frankford Arsenal! Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just looking to get started, this kit is functional with standard dies and primers, and has an adjustable seating system to ensure the perfect depth.
- Includes the Frankford Arsenal F-1 Single Stage Reloading Press, Benchtop Powder Measure, Hand Primer, Alimunim Powder Funnel Kit, Digital Calipers, DS-750 Powder Scale, Powder Trickler, and Universal Reloading Tray.
- The RCBS Rebel Master Reloading Kit is the ideal kit for both novice and experienced handloaders. Anchored by the tough-as-nails cast iron Rebel Single Stage Reloading Press this kit can handle cartridges from as small as the .25 acp to the mighty .338 Lapua Magnum
- For over 75 years handloaders have trusted RCBS for their reloading needs. The Rebel Master Reloading Kit continues that tradition starting with the tough-as-nails Rebel Single Stage Reloading Press and surrounding it with our favorite products to help you make your first round or 5,000th
- Includes needed products except dies and shell holders
- Huge savings over buying all kit pieces individually
- Included components: Rebel single stage press, 1,500 grain digital scale, Uniflow-III Powder Measure, Hand priming tool, Speer Manual, Universal powder funnel, fold-up hex key set, accessory handle-2 with case neck brushes, 2 primer pocket brushes, deburring tool, case slick case lube, universal case loading block
- This kit and a set of Lee dies is everything you need to begin reloading
- Note: the Bench Plate system the Classic Turret Press is mounted to in the photo is sold separately.
- Made in USA
- The kit includes the Pro Auto-Drum powder measure and riser, perfect for all handgun and small rifle cartridges.
- Includes a set of 11 Auto-Prime Shell Holders
- Kit includes the Breech Lock Challenger Press and one Breech lock quick change bushing
- This kit is perfect for those who prefer to prime off the press
- Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant – This kit represents the ultimate reloading setup for maximum ammo production in shorter sessions. It includes the Lock-N-Load Auto Progressive (AP) Press, AP Pistol Bullet Feeder, AP Case Feeder and nearly 30 other tools and accessories
- Fast Reloading – Equipped with the most intuitive reloading system, the Hornady Ammo Plant delivers the speed and performance you need to reload hundreds of your favorite cartridges in record time
- Smooth and Precise – With a single pull of the handle, you’ll feel the difference between this high-performance machine and another ordinary reloading ammo press. You’ll feel the smooth responsiveness, the rugged construction, and most of all, the power! And since the AP features automatic indexing, priming and ejection, every pull of the handle gives you a precisely loaded round
- Also Includes – Lock-N-Load Powder Measure, Rifle and Pistol Metering Insert and Rotor, Powder Cop, Deluxe Die Wrench, Case Activated Power Drop, Die Busing 10-pack, Cartridge Bins, Large and Small Primer Pickup Tubes, Primer Slide Springs, Deluxe Spent Primer Catcher and a Vintage Tin Sign. All you need are dies and shell plates to start loading with your AP!
- About Us – Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing has become a leading innovator of bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacturing. At Hornady, ammunition is more than their livelihood. It's a major part of their daily life. Hornady acquired SnapSafe in 2015 to complement and expand their offerings in the security products market segment
The Ultimate Reloading Kit Buying Guide
Reloading your own ammunition can save you money and lets you customize your loads. But where do you start? Buying the right reloading kit is the first big step. This guide helps you pick the perfect kit for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
A good reloading kit should have everything you need to start. Think about what you plan to reload most often.
1. Press Type
- Single-Stage Press: This is best for beginners. It handles one step at a time (like resizing or seating a bullet). It is slow but very accurate.
- Turret Press: This press lets you keep different dies set up at different stations. You turn a turret to move to the next step. It is faster than single-stage.
- Progressive Press: This is for high-volume shooters. It performs several operations with one pull of the handle. These are expensive and complex to set up.
2. Included Components
A complete kit usually includes a press, a set of dies (the tools that shape the brass), a powder measure, and a priming tool. Check if shell holders and case loading blocks are included. These small parts can add up in cost if you have to buy them separately.
3. Durability and Construction
Look for presses made from strong materials like cast iron or heavy aluminum. Solid construction means the press will last for thousands of rounds and keep your measurements precise.
Important Materials for Reloading
The kit is just the beginning. You need other materials to actually make the cartridges.
- Brass (Cartridge Cases): This is the metal body of the cartridge. You can buy new brass or reuse (reload) your old brass.
- Primers: These small cups hold the explosive compound that starts the firing process. You must match the primer size to your cartridge type.
- Powder (Propellant): This is the main charge that pushes the bullet out of the barrel. Always use the correct type of powder listed in reliable reloading manuals.
- Bullets (Projectiles): These are the metal tips that fly downrange. They come in many weights and materials (like lead or jacketed copper).
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your final ammunition depends on your tools and your care.
Quality Boosters:
- Precision Measuring Tools: A high-quality, accurate powder scale drastically improves consistency.
- Good Dies: Dies made from hardened steel hold their shape better. This ensures every case is sized exactly the same way.
Quality Reducers:
- Plastic Parts: If the powder measure or loading blocks are made of cheap plastic, they might wear out quickly or warp, leading to inaccurate powder charges.
- Rushing the Process: Reloading requires patience. Skipping steps or not cleaning your brass properly will lower the quality and safety of your reloads.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about why you are reloading. This determines the best kit for you.
Beginner/Hobbyist:
If you shoot a few hundred rounds a month for fun or target practice, a single-stage press kit is perfect. It teaches you the basics of each step safely. You will enjoy the slow, deliberate process.
Competition Shooter/High Volume:
If you shoot thousands of rounds monthly, you need speed. Look for a progressive press kit. While they cost more upfront, they save massive amounts of time once set up correctly.
Always remember: Safety comes first. Always use a current, trusted reloading manual specific to the caliber you are loading. Never guess on powder charges.
Reloading Kit Buying Guide FAQs
Q: What caliber should my first kit support?
A: Choose a kit that supports the most common caliber you shoot, like 9mm, .223 Remington, or .308 Winchester. Many single-stage presses let you easily swap out the dies for different calibers later.
Q: Do I need a separate powder scale?
A: Yes. While some kits include a powder *dispenser*, you must use a separate, high-precision *scale* to weigh your powder charges for safety and accuracy. Never skip weighing your charges.
Q: How long does it take to set up a new press?
A: For a simple single-stage press, setup might take one hour. Progressive presses can take several hours or even a full day to dial in perfectly for a new cartridge.
Q: Is reloading cheaper than buying factory ammo?
A: Yes, usually. Once you buy the initial kit and components, reloading often costs 30% to 60% less per round than buying new factory ammunition.
Q: What is the most important extra tool to buy?
A: A good case trimmer is very important. Trimming the brass to the exact correct length ensures reliable feeding and safe chambering of the finished cartridge.
Q: Can one kit reload pistol and rifle ammo?
A: Yes, most quality presses can reload both rifle and pistol ammunition. You just need to buy the correct set of dies for each specific caliber you want to load.
Q: What does “die set” mean?
A: The die set is a pair (or more) of threaded tools that fit into the press. They resize the brass, de-prime the old primer, expand the case mouth, and seat the new bullet. You need one set per caliber.
Q: Should I buy a kit or buy the components separately?
A: For beginners, a complete kit is easier. It ensures you get compatible parts that work together right away. Experienced reloaders often buy components separately to get specific brands they prefer.
Q: What is case life?
A: Case life is how many times you can safely reload a piece of brass. Proper resizing and not overworking the brass will increase its life significantly.
Q: Are reloading kits heavy?
A: Yes, presses are heavy because they need weight and rigidity to handle the forces involved. Make sure your workbench is strong enough to support the press and the weight of components.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.