[widowmaker]

I just picked up a RCBS rockcrusher (?) press, several sets of rifle dies, a case trimmer and a primer pocket reamer and some other reloading stuff at a yard sale. I also got a Lyman 1220 powder scale in the deal too(Yes I got a steal on it all.
Problem is I dont know anything about reloading and I really need some help/advice. I have a couple of older reloading manuals but they seem to assume you have knowledge to begin with. I dont know much about the mechanics of reloading and could sure use some advice/ help.
Is there a reloading for dummies book around?

[c3shooter]

Matter of fact, there is. For most folks, I suggest the first thing they buy is a copy of ABCs of Reloading. Check over on Amazon- they usually have a used or discounted copy. BIG paperback. Think I should get a commission from Amazon- have sold about 100 copies for them.

[genesis]

Go here and download the manual.

Don <><

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=rcbs%20rock%20crusher%20manual&so urce=web&cd=1&ved=0CFIQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.r cbs.com%2Fdownloads%2Finstructions%2FRockChucker_I-II_Manual.pdf&ei=tWULUNnxEKnj0QHum8jLAw&usg=AFQjCN HdouLS07GCafGlqkvaClmJUALpFw&cad=rja

Then go here and read "everything".
http://www.rcbs.com/guide/

[axxe55]

C3 is right, the book The ABC's of Reloading is an excellent book for a beginner to learn the basics and they usually sell for about $15 or less on Amazon.com. another good book is Lee's Modern Reloadin data book. goes into a lot of detail about reloading as well as being a load data book. they lay it out very well for the beginner to understand what is going on.

get the books and read them several times before ever, ever trying to reload anything. make sure you are in complete understanding of what is going on. remember to follow all the safety procedures, as they are there for your safety. i consider reloading to be very safe and rewarding personally as long as you do it safely and properly. if done incorrectly, it can have some dangerous, or possibly deadly results for you. don't deviate from the load data, don't experiment, and follow directions to the letter and you will do fine. if you have more questions, many of us will be glad to assist you, but please get the books and read them, and you will have a much better understanding of the reloading process. good luck.

[Centurian22]

I picked up ABC's of reloading and reloaders digest from my local library. Just finished the ABC's and it is a great book and great place to start. I hope to buy the gear soon and get started reloading.

[Overkill0084]

ABC's of reloading. Good book, best starting point.
Lee Modern Reloading 2nd Edition. Good, but it comes across as part of an ad campaign for Lee Equipment. I use some Lee equipment and I found it tiresome. It has a lot of data, so it's worth having regardless.
Lyman Reloading handbook, 39th edition. Also has info for beginners in the front, not quite as bad with the self promotion.
If you will be using cast bullets very much: Lyman Cast Bullet Handbook 4th edition. Indispensable for cast bullet users, I wish I'd bought it sooner. I don't even cast my own yet. But that info is there too.
These, along with data from your powder manufacturers, is a good start. From here you can migrate to the brand specific manuals as your needs dictate.

[tri70]

Read the beginning chapters on the basics with the manuals you have so you don't blow up your guns. Go slow to make sure you are doing everything by the book, trimming measuring, weighing powder and book seating depth for bullets. Start off with the minumim powder loads and work you way up.

[tiberius10721]

For me the Lee reloading manual was the best. Gave me a real good understanding of the basics. A good caliber in my opinion to start reloading is 38 special fired from a 357 magnum. Pretty hard to blow up a 357 magnum with 38 special reloads. Not impossible just unlikely. Buy a chronometer this will give you a better idea of whats going on with your reloads.