Process of reloading (true newbie)

[Malice]

I have up another thread on getting started but I am really cautious and I really want to make sure I know what I am doing and that I am getting the right equipment. Sorry if I am being redundant but you guys are so helpful, and when threads get long they get harder to follow. I will be getting a manual or 2 of course but this is to make sure I am buying the right equipment. To reload 7.5 Swiss with a Lee Anniversary kit:

1. Clean the case.

2. Use the 7.5 Swiss case size guage to make sure it is the right length. After re-using the brass cases they can stretch. If it is the right size, ok. If not, use the case trimmer, included in the kit, to trim the neck to the right length.

3. Lube it up.

4. Install the die set. Place a case in the press. Pull the handle, this de-primes the case and re-sizes the case. Clean the primer pocket.

5. Use the Lee auto primer (in the kit) or the press to re-prime the case using the proper (large rifle in this case) primer.

6. Use the Scale, the Perfect Powder Measure, or the scoop that comes with the die set to measure the ammount of powder for the load you want, and pour it into the case via funnel. The lee die set, and manuals include this information.

7. Install the shellholder. Place the charged, primed case on the shellholder. Place a bullet into the neck. With the 7.5 dies, seat the bullet.

8. Using calipers or comparing to a factory load, make sure the loaded cartridge is the right length.


Am I on track here? I realize this is rather simplified, but is there anything else I NEED that I am not considering in my imagined reloading process?

 

[Jim Watson]

Well, you do have to have the shellholder in the press all the way through, can't leave it until you want to seat the bullet. Otherwise, not too bad, nearly as good as reading the directions.

 

[antarti]

You should resize the case before checking case length and trimming, so move #2 down until after #4.

Inspect the case at step #1 or after resizing, but somewhere before priming.

 

[USSR]

What antarti said. Trimming is done after resizing. You may also want to check your resized brass to make sure the shoulder has been pushed back enough but not too much. The RCBS Precision Mic instrument works well for this.

Don

 

[keano44]

Buy a couple of manuals BEFORE you purchase any other equipment. Read through the procedure completely, over and over, until you understand the procedure. THEN, decide what equipment is right for YOU.
Take no shortcuts, and refer back to the manuals often, until you get it down, then continue to refer to the manuals to keep the information fresh in your mind.
I started off with basic Lee equipment (Turret press, PACT scale, Auto Disc powder measure, calipers). I quickly realized that, for me, I wanted a chronograph ASAP to be sure the velocities of the ammo I was producing were where they were supposed to be, according to the books. Guessing is no good in reloading. Assuming is even worse.