Have you ever felt the thrill of hitting the target dead center, knowing you crafted that perfect round yourself? Handloading your own ammunition is a rewarding hobby. It saves money and lets you fine-tune your shooting experience. But getting started can feel overwhelming.
Choosing your very first Starter Reloading Kit is a big step. You face a sea of brands, features, and prices. Which press is right? What tools do you truly need? Many newcomers feel stuck, worried about buying the wrong gear and wasting precious cash.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great beginner kit. You will learn the essential components and what features matter most for easy learning. By the end, you will feel confident picking the perfect setup.
Let’s dive in and discover the best path to starting your handloading journey today!
Top Starter Reloading Kit Recommendations
- The Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit has long been the king of reloading kits. We took the benchmark of single stage presses (Rock Chucker Supreme) and surrounded it with the equipment you need (except dies and shell holders) to start handloading ammunition like a pro
- The backbone of this reloading kit is the legendary Rock Chucker Supreme single stage press. It combines easy operation, ambidextrous handle, outstanding strength, and versatility to earn that coveted spot on your reloading bench. Featuring a spacious 4.25" loading window that is perfectly suited for loading longer magnum and a central pivot design that provides outstanding leverage to size the toughest cases
- The Uniflow-III Powder Measure - is the most accurate Uniflow that RCBS has ever produced. The UPM-III throws consistently accurate charges reload after reload. The exacting tight tolerance allow powder to pour uniformly from the measuring cylinder and into a case, thereby eliminating the hazards of overloads caused by clogging when charges are dumped
- Comes with M500 Mechanical Scale - Featuring a proven two-poise design that lets you weigh up to 505 grains with plus/-0.1-grain accuracy, the RCBS M500 Sale also offers RCBS' magnetic damping system for fast readings, and maintenance-free movement.
- INCLUDES - Supreme Master Reloading Press, Universal Case Loading Block, .17-.60 Debur Tool, M500 Mechanical Scale, Uniflow III Powder Measure, Hand Priming Tool, Hex Key Set, Case Lube Kit, Powder Funnel and Speer Reloading Manual.
- The Frankford Arsenal Essentials Reloading Kit makes the reloading process simpler, enjoyable, and equips you with quality tools to create precise ammunition.
- Encompasses every aspect of the reloading process from resizing, depriming, and bullet seating, with the F-1 Single Stage Press at the heart of this kit.
- Intentionally developed with more premium tools to eliminate the need to upgrade obsolete products over time.
- Trust in the quality, precision, and expertise of Frankford Arsenal! Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just looking to get started, this kit is functional with standard dies and primers, and has an adjustable seating system to ensure the perfect depth.
- Includes the Frankford Arsenal F-1 Single Stage Reloading Press, Benchtop Powder Measure, Hand Primer, Alimunim Powder Funnel Kit, Digital Calipers, DS-750 Powder Scale, Powder Trickler, and Universal Reloading Tray.
- Great value for those starting out reloading
- Over 11 essential items for handloading
- Savings over buying each piece individually
- The RCBS Rebel Master Reloading Kit is the ideal kit for both novice and experienced handloaders. Anchored by the tough-as-nails cast iron Rebel Single Stage Reloading Press this kit can handle cartridges from as small as the .25 acp to the mighty .338 Lapua Magnum
- For over 75 years handloaders have trusted RCBS for their reloading needs. The Rebel Master Reloading Kit continues that tradition starting with the tough-as-nails Rebel Single Stage Reloading Press and surrounding it with our favorite products to help you make your first round or 5,000th
- Includes needed products except dies and shell holders
- Huge savings over buying all kit pieces individually
- Included components: Rebel single stage press, 1,500 grain digital scale, Uniflow-III Powder Measure, Hand priming tool, Speer Manual, Universal powder funnel, fold-up hex key set, accessory handle-2 with case neck brushes, 2 primer pocket brushes, deburring tool, case slick case lube, universal case loading block
- Comes with Press, Reloading Scale, Uniflow Powder Measure, Hand Priming Tool, Case Loading Block, Debur Tool, Hex Key Set, Case Lube Kit, Powder Funnel and Reloading Manual
- SPECS: This tumbler holds up to 600 9mm or 350 .223 cases
- EASE OF USE: Cord operated with an ON/OFF switch located on the cord
- CONVENIENT: Remove lube and oxidation easily by pairing this tumbler with Frankford Arsenal Walnut Hull or Corn Cob Media
- INCLUDES: Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler, Quick-N-EZ Rotary Media Separator, 4 oz. Brass Polish, 3 lb. Cleaning Media and a Plastic Bucket
- GUARANTEED: This product is covered by a limited lifetime warranty provided by Frankford Arsenal. Please contact Frankford Arsenal customer service for assistance
- Ideal kit for beginning hand loaders
- Solid reliable reloading equipment
- Includes Speer Reloading Manual
- Big savings over buying all items separately
- Included Components: Reloader Special - 5 Press, Uniflow-Iii Powder Measure, 1,500 Grain Digital Pocket Scale, Speer Reloading Manual, Hand Priming Tool, Universal Case Loading Block, Deburring Tool, Powder Funnel, Case Slick Case Lube, Powder Trickler-2, Fold Up Hex Key Set
- COMPLETE STARTER RELOADING KIT – Everything needed to begin reloading in one box, including the press, 3-die set, powder funnel die, scale, calipers, powder trickler, primer flip tray, case lube, ammo box, and die wrench.
- BEGINNER-FRIENDLY PROGRESSIVE PRESS – Designed to remove the confusion of getting started, this kit lets new reloaders learn the full progressive reloading process with clear instructions and essential, proven equipment.
- 4-STATION PROGRESSIVE DESIGN – Unlike single-stage or turret presses, the BL550 allows multiple operations per pull, providing better efficiency while maintaining control—so it won’t be outgrown as skills improve.
- UPGRADEABLE TO RL550C – Start with the BL550 and upgrade later to the RL550 for higher output (up to 500 rounds per hour). Built on the same platform, making upgrades simple and cost-effective.
- MADE IN USA & LIFETIME WARRANTY – Proudly manufactured in the USA and backed by Dillon Precision’s industry-defining product and customer support.
Your First Steps into Reloading: The Starter Kit Buying Guide
Starting to reload your own ammunition is an exciting step for any shooter. It lets you customize your rounds and often saves money. A starter kit gives you the basic tools you need to begin. This guide helps you choose the right one.
Key Features to Look For in a Starter Kit
A good starter kit should have the core equipment. Do not settle for kits missing essential items.
The Press Type
Most beginner kits feature a single-stage press. This press is simple to use. It lets you perform one operation at a time (like resizing or seating a bullet). Turret presses offer a slight step up, allowing multiple dies to be mounted at once. For absolute beginners, single-stage is best for learning the process.
Included Components
Check the box contents carefully. You need the following main items:
- The Reloading Press: The frame that holds everything together.
- Powder Measure: This dispenses the correct amount of gunpowder. Look for one that is easy to adjust.
- Priming Tool: This seats the small primer into the case. Some kits include a hand primer, which many beginners prefer for feel.
- Caliber Dies: These metal tools shape the brass case and seat the bullet. Ensure the kit includes dies for the caliber you plan to start with (e.g., 9mm Luger or .223 Remington).
- Case Holder (Shell Holder): This grips the base of the cartridge case.
Important Materials and Components
The quality of the materials directly affects your results and safety. Good components last a long time.
Press Construction
Look for a press made of strong metal, usually cast iron or heavy-duty aluminum. A heavy frame reduces flex when you apply force. Flex can lead to inconsistent cartridge sizing.
The Powder Measure
Powder measures come in two types: volumetric (using a cup) and scale-based. Starter kits usually include a volumetric measure. Ensure the measure throws powder charges consistently. Inconsistent powder charges are dangerous.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a kit great or just okay? It often comes down to precision and included accessories.
Precision Tools
A high-quality kit might include a simple digital scale or a better-quality loading block. A loading block holds your empty cases upright. While you must buy a quality scale separately for safety, having a decent included scale for initial checks is a bonus.
Ease of Use
Look for components that are easy to adjust. If the instructions are confusing or the parts feel flimsy, it reduces the quality of your experience. Simple, robust designs are better for beginners.
User Experience and Use Cases
A starter kit is designed for one main use case: learning the fundamental steps of reloading safely.
First Use Scenarios
You will use this kit to resize spent brass, prime new cases, charge them with powder, and seat a new bullet. Beginners usually reload common pistol or rifle rounds in small batches (like 50 or 100 rounds) to practice. The single-stage nature forces you to focus on one step perfectly before moving to the next.
Upgradability
A good starter kit should not trap you. Can you easily add a better powder measure later? Can you swap out the single-stage press for a turret or progressive press when your volume increases? If the included shell holders or base plates are standard, you can upgrade other parts easily.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Starter Reloading Kits
Q: Do I need anything else besides the starter kit?
A: Yes. You must buy reloading dies for your specific caliber, gunpowder, primers, and bullets separately. You also absolutely need a reliable powder scale for safety.
Q: Are starter kits safe?
A: The kits themselves are safe tools. However, reloading is inherently dangerous if you do not follow published load data exactly. The user creates the safety risk, not the tool.
Q: Can I reload rifle and pistol ammo with the same kit?
A: Usually, yes, provided the press is strong enough. You will need separate die sets for each caliber.
Q: What is the biggest difference between a starter kit and an advanced setup?
A: Advanced setups use progressive presses that load four or five steps simultaneously, increasing speed dramatically. Starter kits are slow but allow for better quality control per round.
Q: How long does it take to reload 50 rounds with a starter kit?
A: For a total beginner, it might take two to three hours while reading instructions carefully. Experienced users can do it in under an hour.
Q: Should I buy a kit that includes a case trimmer?
A: A case trimmer is essential for rifle reloading. Some kits include a basic one, which is helpful, but you may need a better one later for precision.
Q: What is the most common caliber for starter kits?
A: Kits are often sold without dies, but if they include them, they feature common pistol rounds like 9mm or popular rifle rounds like .223 Remington.
Q: How do I know if the powder measure is accurate?
A: You must check the dispensed powder charge using your separate, high-quality scale every few rounds, especially when starting out or changing settings.
Q: If the kit is cheaper, is it automatically worse?
A: Not always, but very cheap kits often use lower-quality metal. This metal can wear out or flex, leading to inconsistent ammunition.
Q: Do I need to lubricate the brass before using the sizing die?
A: Yes, absolutely, especially when resizing rifle brass. Most starter kits do not include case lube, so you must purchase this separately. Skipping lube can damage your die and jam your brass.