After 10 yrs or so of reloading, I just bought a set of check weights (Lyman) to make absolutely sure that my balance beam scales (Pacific and RCBS) are accurate. I will be shocked if either is out more than 0.1 grn. Check weights are surprisingly expensive!
My recommendation on equipment is to first think hard about how you will "do" reloading. For me, it is an enjoyable hobby, done mostly for the satisfaction of doing a precision job exactly to MY standards. Not to save $. Not to load gobs of practice ammo to quickly burn through. Definitely TO be something "immersive" where ALL distractions MUST be shut off (similar to motorcycle riding). I intentionally go very slow, make lots of notes, and just enjoy the process. I like to experiment with different bullet designs, powder burn rates, and powder charges to find a combination that works well in my particular firearm. But also understand that with hundreds or thousands of different "recipes" in your reloading manuals, this can sometimes seem overwhelming and frustrating!
With these constraints, a plain old, super-solid RCBS Rock Chucker single-stage has served me very well. Most any dies, carbide strongly preferred. I have heard a few adverse comments about Lee from time to time. RCBS manual powder dispenser. A case trimmer. I really like a hand primer tool best. Much better "feel" for when the primer hits bottom in the pocket. I do use an inexpensive case vibrator and walnut or corncob media because I enjoy shiny cases. Get one of those fine $10 digital calipers from Harbor Freight.
My recommendation on equipment is to first think hard about how you will "do" reloading. For me, it is an enjoyable hobby, done mostly for the satisfaction of doing a precision job exactly to MY standards. Not to save $. Not to load gobs of practice ammo to quickly burn through. Definitely TO be something "immersive" where ALL distractions MUST be shut off (similar to motorcycle riding). I intentionally go very slow, make lots of notes, and just enjoy the process. I like to experiment with different bullet designs, powder burn rates, and powder charges to find a combination that works well in my particular firearm. But also understand that with hundreds or thousands of different "recipes" in your reloading manuals, this can sometimes seem overwhelming and frustrating!
With these constraints, a plain old, super-solid RCBS Rock Chucker single-stage has served me very well. Most any dies, carbide strongly preferred. I have heard a few adverse comments about Lee from time to time. RCBS manual powder dispenser. A case trimmer. I really like a hand primer tool best. Much better "feel" for when the primer hits bottom in the pocket. I do use an inexpensive case vibrator and walnut or corncob media because I enjoy shiny cases. Get one of those fine $10 digital calipers from Harbor Freight.
