Some good advice there.
500 empties is plenty to get started.
Yes there are DGs restrictions on the ferry.
AR2208 & Ar2206H are easy to get and incredibly versatile so a good starting point.
You could buy a reloading kit, like the Lee Anniversary kit for example.
Personally I'd suggest buying gear as you require it. Here is a list.
RE-LOADING EQUIPMENT
You don’t need heaps of stuff to start reloading. Some can be made or purchased second hand
YOU MUST HAVE *
* “O” or “C” Frame press-Any 7/8” press, some come with the priming tool - I have a simplex Master. Just must be a solid press.
* Priming tool
* Shell holders to suit the cartridge
* Dies- MUST have for each calibre. Lee RGB are the cheapest to get you started. ~$50
* Loading block(s) Buy or easy to make
* Sizing lube - Any oil will do. e.g. diff, engine, coco nut or Lanox
* Powder funnel-Must have one of these.
* Scales. A MUST. Beam or electronic. I have beam. Some whinge about the lee scales? But at a pinch they do the job.
* Components, Powder, Primers Projectiles, Cases
* Access to ADI Powder manual-for loading data.
* Manual on how to do it or someone to show you.
OPTIONAL or Can wait a while
Trimmer- You need to buy one of these with each cartridge in the lee kit. But a generic one is preferred. It will do almost any cartridge, most companies sell them. I have a simplex.
There is also a cheap Lee trimmer used with a drill.
Powder scoops-Easy to make from fired cases
Lee Perfect Powder measure. (If you load lots) abt $60. These are great
Primer pocket cleaner, Easy to make, drill or screw driver
De-burrer, A sharp pocket knife and fine file will do this if you have nothing else. Plumbers pipe de-burrer.
Trickler, or very tiny scoop. Or just use a 308 shell and dribble it in. Easy to make too
Vernier caliper to check case length & OAL. I got away with a plastic dial caliper for years. Dial type seem to be best.
Tumbler, But I use the salt/vinegar solution. Fine for most. Ultra sonic jewelry cleaners a great.
RE-LOADING PROCEDURE
1. De-Prime
2. Clean in Aldi ultrasonic cleaner. Water, vinegar, soap, salt. Rinse and air dry
3. Visual inspection of fired cases looking for signs of pressures, case separation or neck cracking
4. Anneal every few reloads or as required.
5. Lube & Lightly lube inside of neck FLRS
6. Wash and air dry
7. Trim all cases & debur. as required
8. Prime,
9. Charge
10. Seat projectile and check length. (OAL)
11. Go shooting
Lots of basic info here. Lots of DIY options.
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