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Basic ammunition reloading ​

Basic ammunition reloading is a critical skill for survival and defense in a post-collapse environment. This section covers the fundamental knowledge and practical steps necessary to reload ammunition safely and effectively, enabling sustained firearm use when commercial supplies are scarce or unavailable.

Introduction to Ammunition Reloading ​

Ammunition reloading is the process of assembling firearm cartridges by combining individual components: the cartridge case, primer, powder, and projectile (bullet). Reloading allows survivors to extend the life of their existing ammunition stocks, reduce dependency on external sources, and customize loads for specific firearms or purposes.

Reloading requires careful attention to detail, safety protocols, and understanding of the components and equipment involved. This section provides comprehensive guidance on the basics of reloading, focusing on common calibers and tools accessible in a survival context.

A photo of a reloading bench setup showing a manual reloading press, brass cartridge cases, bullets, powder measure, and primers neatly arranged on a wooden table.

Components of Ammunition ​

Understanding each component of a cartridge is essential before beginning reloading.

Cartridge Case ​

The cartridge case is the container that holds all other components together. Cases are typically made of brass, steel, or aluminum. Brass is preferred for reloading due to its durability and ability to be resized multiple times.

  • Brass cases can be reused many times if properly cleaned and inspected.
  • Steel cases are less ideal for reloading due to their hardness and tendency to deform.
  • Aluminum cases are generally not reloadable.

Cases must be inspected for cracks, dents, or deformities before reuse to avoid dangerous malfunctions.

Primers ​

Primers are small metal cups containing a sensitive explosive compound that ignites the powder charge when struck by the firing pin.

  • Two main types: Boxer primers (common in the US, easier to reload) and Berdan primers (common in Europe, more difficult to reload).
  • Primers come in small pistol, large pistol, small rifle, and large rifle sizes, matching the cartridge specifications.

Proper primer selection is critical for reliable ignition.

Gunpowder (Propellant) ​

Gunpowder provides the explosive force that propels the bullet out of the barrel.

  • Two main types: Smokeless powder (modern, cleaner burning) and black powder (older, more corrosive).
  • Smokeless powder comes in various grain sizes and burn rates tailored to specific cartridges.
  • Accurate measurement of powder charge is vital for safety and performance.

Bullets (Projectiles) ​

Bullets are the projectile component fired from the firearm.

  • Common types include full metal jacket (FMJ), hollow point (HP), soft point (SP), and lead round nose (LRN).
  • Bullet weight and shape affect ballistics and terminal performance.
  • Bullets must match the caliber and firearm specifications.

Essential Reloading Equipment ​

Reloading requires specialized tools. In a survival setting, manual and simple equipment is preferred due to power limitations and maintenance ease.

Reloading Press ​

A reloading press holds the cartridge case and performs resizing, priming, and bullet seating.

  • Single-stage presses perform one operation at a time, ideal for beginners and small batches.
  • Turret presses allow multiple dies to be mounted for faster operation.
  • Progressive presses automate multiple steps but are complex and less suitable for survival scenarios.

Manual single-stage presses are recommended for reliability and simplicity.

Dies ​

Reloading dies shape and size the cartridge case and seat bullets.

  • Resizing die returns the case to proper dimensions.
  • Expanding die opens the case mouth for bullet insertion.
  • Seating die presses the bullet into the case.
  • Crimping die secures the bullet by slightly deforming the case mouth.

Dies must match the cartridge caliber exactly.

Powder Measure and Scale ​

Accurate powder measurement is critical.

  • Powder measure dispenses consistent volumes of powder.
  • Powder scale verifies weight to ensure safety.

In survival conditions, a reliable scale is essential to avoid over- or under-charging.

Primer Tools ​

  • Primer pocket cleaner removes residue from used cases.
  • Primer seating tool inserts primers into cases.
  • Primer tray holds primers for easy access.

Case Trimmer and Cleaner ​

  • Case trimmer cuts cases to proper length after repeated use.
  • Case tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner removes dirt and residue.

Step-by-Step Reloading Process ​

Reloading involves a sequence of precise steps. Each must be performed carefully to ensure safety and functionality.

1. Case Preparation ​

  • Inspect cases for cracks, splits, or deformities.
  • Clean cases using a tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner to remove dirt and powder residue.
  • Resize cases using the resizing die to restore original dimensions.
  • Trim cases to correct length if necessary.
  • Clean primer pockets to ensure proper primer seating.

A photo showing a close-up of hands resizing and trimming brass cartridge cases using a manual reloading press and case trimmer.

2. Priming ​

  • Use a primer seating tool to insert a new primer into the cleaned primer pocket.
  • Ensure primers are seated flush or slightly below the case head surface.
  • Handle primers carefully; they are sensitive to impact and static electricity.

3. Charging with Powder ​

  • Measure the correct powder charge using a powder measure and verify with a scale.
  • Pour powder into the case carefully to avoid spills.
  • Use published load data from reputable sources to determine safe powder charges.

4. Bullet Seating ​

  • Place the bullet on the case mouth.
  • Use the seating die to press the bullet to the correct depth.
  • Check overall cartridge length with a caliper to ensure it meets specifications.

5. Crimping ​

  • Apply a crimp to secure the bullet in place, preventing movement during handling.
  • Crimping also affects pressure and accuracy; use appropriate crimp settings for the cartridge.

Safety Considerations ​

Reloading ammunition involves handling explosive materials and requires strict adherence to safety protocols.

  • Always wear safety glasses to protect eyes from primer or powder ignition.
  • Work in a well-ventilated, clean area free of static electricity and open flames.
  • Store powder and primers in cool, dry places away from heat sources.
  • Never exceed recommended powder charges; consult reliable reloading manuals.
  • Keep detailed records of loads, components, and performance.
  • Inspect each cartridge for defects before use.

Common Calibers and Reloading Tips ​

Certain calibers are more common and practical for survival reloading due to component availability and firearm prevalence.

Pistol Calibers ​

  • 9mm Luger: Popular, widely available, and relatively easy to reload.
  • .45 ACP: Larger bullet, moderate powder charge, common in self-defense firearms.
  • .38 Special: Revolver caliber, moderate pressure, simple reloading.

Rifle Calibers ​

  • .223 Remington / 5.56 NATO: Common military caliber, smaller case, requires precise powder measurement.
  • .308 Winchester / 7.62 NATO: Larger rifle cartridge, suitable for hunting and defense.
  • 7.62x39mm: Common in AK-style rifles, moderate pressure, widely available components.

Troubleshooting and Quality Control ​

Reloaded ammunition must be tested and inspected to ensure reliability.

  • Check for consistent primer seating depth.
  • Verify powder charges with a scale.
  • Measure cartridge overall length for uniformity.
  • Test-fire a small batch to check for proper function and accuracy.
  • Watch for signs of excessive pressure: flattened primers, case head expansion, or difficult extraction.

Salvaging Components in Survival Situations ​

In post-collapse scenarios, sourcing components may require ingenuity.

  • Brass cases can be collected from spent rounds and carefully cleaned and inspected.
  • Primers may be salvaged from old ammunition or manufactured with advanced knowledge (see advanced chapters).
  • Powder can be stockpiled or replaced with black powder alternatives if available.
  • Bullets can be cast from lead recovered from scrap or melted down from wheel weights.

Refer to Firearm restoration for guidance on firearm maintenance and compatibility with reloaded ammunition.

Conclusion ​

Basic ammunition reloading is a vital skill for long-term survival and defense. Mastery of the components, tools, and processes enables sustained firearm use when commercial ammunition is unavailable. Safety, precision, and patience are paramount. With practice, survivors can maintain a reliable supply of ammunition tailored to their needs.

An illustration of the four main components of a cartridge: brass case, primer, powder, and bullet, displayed separately with labels on a white background using simple black line art.