A list to start with. If you can see in this cluttered mess, this is pretty much what I use to load. It's allot neater when I'm not trying to squeeze it in for a pic. I'll work clockwise from the right.
Trimmer- This is a Hornady, and it takes standard shell holders. I can use the Lee trimmers too and get great results. This one is just a little easier on the hands for me.
Hand primer- I like to hand prime as I like to feel the primer seat.
Case lube- For full-length sizing. (Also a bit in the orange case I use in the field)
Case prep kit- Primer pocket tools, chamfer/ deburring tools, and a few other odds and ends I have found use for over the years. In front of the case is the turn handle for some of them, but I rarely use it as the hand tools are faster.
Powder measure- This Lee one will throw within a tenth as long as I am consistent.
Shotshell press- I have yet to use it, but I plan to start loading for mine, my inlaws' and my daughter's.
Powder scale- I have a digital one too, but this one is just as good. Once I get the measure set, I put one one the scale every 10 round or so to check it.
Dies- This is for a 257Roberts, but I like to have the neck sizing, full length sizing, seater and crimper dies. This is the best case I have found too.
Calipers- If you plan to load, you'd better get some. There are other devices, but this will get you started.
Press (center)- This is my favorite press of the ones I have used. It isn't fast but it goes where I go. I can resize brass while watching TV and load test rounds at the range. I load about 1500 annually and this is right on the money for the volume. Add in the fact that I had to move a bow press to set this up and you can see why a permanently mounted one would be a hassle for me.
You won't find a better way, economically, to start loading. Using the Lee trimmers you could end up with less than $100 into it plus components. There are tons of high tech gadgets out there to spend money on and you might find many of them useful. I have tried a few and end up coming back to this. I routinely load rounds capable of 1/2" groups- My Howa .223 averaged .375 and my Mauser .243 ran .25 all day long. Currently I load for an AR that gets .75 and an iron sighted .257 that hits an inch. My friends shoot my .223 loads to sub MOA groups out of cheap rifles and I don't mind taking the credit for their hits on g-hogs. I don't feel I lose much by being cheap and flexible. It's all in the time, effort, and attention to detail you put in.
Now, excuse me I got a snow day and a little girl who wants to kill a deer.
Good luck.
