Is reloading ammunition safe?
Reloading your own ammo is as safe as easy you make it. There are a lot of fantastic companies that make products specifically designed to make your reloads as safe as possible. Consider sensors from Dillon and AlphaDynamics for powder measurements on press, and gauges from Sheridan or Lee to ensure your new rounds will chamber correctly.
Consider also these things:
When reloading, be sure that your work area is free from distractions - nothing ruins your day more than a double powder charge in a pistol case. Big boom, not great for the shorts. Bad habits lead to dangerous habits.
ALWAYS use reliable load data. Read and understand manufacturer’s instructions on every component, primers, powder, and projectiles. Make sure that the load data you are using is current data and adhere to trusted recipes. Altering these established recipes can lead to danger!
Measure Twice, Cut Once! Measurements are critical for reloading your own ammo. From overall case length, to weighing out powder charges, to trimming necked cases - remember to always ensure your measurements are within SAAMI spec and per your reloading data guide.
Wear Protective Gear. Unpopular opinion, safety glasses certainly have a place here. If you’ve reloaded enough, you know what I mean. From a case that pops out of the shell plate to a cascading failure of a primer stack (another big boom), safety glasses should definitely be worn. We wear eyes and ears in our shop - mostly because of the constant vacuum, air compressor, and equipment running.
Start conservatively. Don’t let converting .233 to .300blk be your first caliber. You’ll quit. It’s miserable. Straight walled cases are your friend at first. Learn the basics first. Take .45acp or 9mm and master that before moving to necked cases.
Store components safely. Powder and Primers can be dangerous if stored improperly! Powder should be kept in a cool, dry, dark place. Primers should be the same, and away from any potential falling objects. (We like filing cabinets). It goes without saying - you should keep all components away from any moisture, heat, or sources of ignition.
Maintenance, Maintenance, Maintenance. - For us here - this is key. Clean machines are happy machines. We take care to take down each machine every 10,000 rounds. Stripped down to the bare parts, cleaned, oiled, and inspected for defects. Any press should be looked after with great care, after all, you’re making ammo on it.
Read a few books on reloading, follow the recipes, and exercise caution when starting to reload. You’ll learn to do ti safely and enjoyable. If you’re uncomfortable with any part of the process, STOP, seek guidance from someone else, or give us a call and we can help walk you through issues you may be having.
Cheers.