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mr surveyor wrote:I use Lee tools almost exclusively... should I be concerned

My Lee equipment has been used to load "only" about 30,000 rounds. Friend of mine has loaded 150,000 on his . . ..

AndyC wrote:We should make Frog's post a sticky :)

Naw, because next time it is needed it is your turn to post that same picture again.

Oldgringo wrote:Gauges are a lot more convenient and less space consuming;

I agree, that is why I have assorted Wilson or Dillon case gauges for various calibers. But not everyone is going to spend that money.

Oldgringo wrote:Cartridge gauges for handgun loads can save you a lot of bullet pulling.

If someone is loading semiauto pistol, you can always field strip the gun and use the barrel as the case gauge.

Everything starts with what volume do you want to reload per month or per year. Someone who wants to load 150 rounds a month has much different needs than someone who wants to load 3,000 a month, and there are all variations in between.

Since you already have a single stage press now, why don't you simply start reloading a minimal setup first to see if you enjoy handloading. I know everyone talks about the money you save, but in my experience, very few people continue handloading just to save the money if they dislike it. Other people find they enjoy handloading and it becomes a second hobby.

So try it first. If you like it, then you can start sinking serious money into your hobby.

Of all the calibers you listed, .45 ACP is the easiest one to reload. It is not a bottlenecked case and it is a relatively low pressure cartridge. If it was me, I'd start with that.

To get started, I'd suggest the following tools:

• Die set. The Lee Carbide Pistol Three-Die Set - $29.99 is a good place to start. You don't need the 4 die set as there is really no need for the Factory Crimp Die to load good ammo.
• Calipers. I'd suggest dial calipers instead of electronic, but to each their own. Hornady Dial Caliper 6" Stainless Steel $30.99
• Traditional balance beam scale. Either the Redding or RCBS are good choices. Beware of cheap digital scales. They are hugely sensitive to air currents and do not hold their zero. Here is the one I use: Redding #2 Master Magnetic Powder Scale 505 Grain Capacity - $69.99
• Case tumbler. Many choices. Here is a cheap one: Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler 110 Volt - $33.99
• Loading Trays. Will hold your cases with the powder while awaiting bullet insertion. Here is one: RCBS Universal Reloading Tray 50-Round Plastic Green - $7.99
• Powder measure. If you get the Lee Pro-Auto DiskPowder Measure - $34.99, you can use that with your single stage press and it will also be usable down the road for other choices.
• Loading manual. There are many available but you need at least one good solid one. The ABCs Of Reloading: The Definitive Guide for Novice to Expert - $17.27 is a classic and should be on your book shelf. The Lee, Hornady, and Lyman books are also worth getting (I have them all).

With the above list, plus brass, primers, powder, and bullets, you could start reloading .45 ACP immediately. Total cost of the above is about $225. All of the above purchases can be useful down the road, even if you end up getting much fancier gear as part of really diving into the hobby.