The summer of 2021 is here, and you know what time it is? It’s time to gear up for hunting season. Rifles, pistols, or a crossbow – it’s time for you to select a weapon and go out there. However, one thing which we have to deal with in today's world is the harsh financial realities associated with owning a gun.
Keeping in mind that the ammunition of any caliber is expensive, and it’s not getting cheaper anytime soon. On top of that, reloading ammunition can be an excellent method to cater your ammunition as per your liking. So, why not improvise and reload your ammo? Let’s discuss why you should reload your ammunition and make your life as a gun owner easier.
A Huge Money Saver
Many shooters will tell you that reloading your ammo can cut down your shooting dollars considerably. And the fact is that it’s true. For instance, a standard 50-count box of commercially produced bullets of a 44 Magnum will save you around $40. Reloading ammo costs around $13, so you can save a significant amount. This is just an example since there is ammunition that costs a lot more. But one thing you must keep in mind that you need to invest in essential equipment to acquire this money-saving feat. Another benefit of handloading your ammo is that you customize your cartridges to precisely fit your shooting range.
Another point to note is that you will be able to fire more often because you’ll afford more rounds. Invest in a low-end reloader first, then when you are comfortable, you can buy a better reloading kit with all of its assorted components. You can then compare your retail ammunition budget with your current operating budget.
Controlling Consistency and Quality
Reloading ammunition opens up all kinds of new possibilities in terms of ammunition you shoot.
For a rifle shooter, accuracy is a must. On top of that, you need a specific blend of bullet, powder, and cartridge length to maximize your long-range performance. Now, if you’re reloading your own rifle ammunition, then you don’t have to worry at all. And suppose you want to make things more extreme. In that case, you can sort your rifle’s cases by checking and aligning your bullet’s concentricity, shaping your primer pockets and flash holes uniformly, or sorting cases by neck thickness. And that’s only some of the things you can do!
Helps to Adhere Safety Standards
Usually, commercial ammunition must adhere to specific safety standards and must be able to perform in different conditions. So, it’s not loaded to different levels of velocity that are required for outstanding performances. You must also keep in mind that bullets must be seated far back enough to fit in any magazine. Most shooters will tell you that accuracy can be improved when the bullet is placed a little farther out.
Not to mention that reloading your ammo enables you to use components that work for your gun and perform adequately as per your usage. Another aspect to remember is that bullets vary by construction, profile, weight, hardness, etc. These factors and more can be a real difference for accuracy. For example, primers must be matched to both the powder and bullet, which is being used.
Fancy Equipment at your Disposal
Many people find that ammunition reloading is a craft and a hobby. It’s fun to keep track of the latest developments in powder, bullets, powders, and accuracy in techniques. Apart from that, reloading can be heaps of fun if you want to experiment and fiddle with your equipment. Every time you acquire a new gun, you can try out new things and improve your shooting skills. With the help of reloading, you can find that magical combination to a particular firearm.
Shoot, Shoot, and Shoot
We are all quite familiar with ammunition shortages and increased prices due to the unstable political climate. If you are one of those lucky individuals who have stocked up on reloading supplies beforehand, then you know the luxury of shooting to your heart’s content. But, unfortunately, if you found yourself close to a hunting season, with no reloading supplies whatsoever – then, purchasing ammo is your only option.
What to Consider when you’re Reloading?
We’ve covered different reasons why reloading is for you, but you must consider the following criteria before you opt for it.
Mechanical Aptitude
If you’re one of those individuals who enjoy working on your own weapon, then you’ll be most likely to enjoy the reloading process. However, keep in mind that you need more than just setting up; you will need to troubleshoot your equipment and repair it promptly.
Patience
Taking up reloading as a hobby is a hassle since there will be times when your patience will be put to the test. In other words, rounds won’t chamber from time to time or a rifle won’t group, or several other reasons.
Time
Lastly, everything requires time, and if you’re not up for the challenge, you might as well quit it. Let’s put it this way; if you don’t have time to shoot, then how you can find the time to reload? Keep in mind that reloading takes time, but like anything else, there’s always a tomorrow.
To Sum it Up
We conclude with our discussion that reloading your weapons can be pretty beneficial – especially if you’re a regular shooter.
So, happy shooting!