Reloading your own shotshells can be a rewarding and cost-effective endeavor for avid shooters. However, understanding the true cost requires a nuanced look beyond just the price of components. This guide breaks down the expenses involved, helping you determine if reloading is the right financial choice for you.
Initial Investment: The Upfront Costs
Before you start saving money, you'll need to invest in the necessary equipment. This includes:
- Shot shell reloading press: Prices range widely, from basic hand presses costing a few hundred dollars to more advanced progressive presses exceeding $1000. The choice depends on your volume and desired features.
- Dies: Specific dies are needed for each shotshell gauge (12 gauge, 20 gauge, etc.). Expect to spend around $50-$100 per set.
- Powder measure: Accurate powder measurement is crucial for safety and consistency. These can range from simple drop measures to more sophisticated electronic measures, with prices reflecting the level of precision.
- Other tools: This includes a primer seating tool, a crimp starter, a crimp tool, and possibly a case trimmer. Expect to spend another $100-$200 for these essentials.
- Miscellaneous supplies: This includes cleaning supplies, lubrication, and storage containers.
Total Initial Investment: Depending on the equipment chosen, your initial investment could range from $500 to $1500 or more. This upfront cost is a significant factor to consider before diving into reloading.
Ongoing Costs: The Per-Shell Expense
Once you have your equipment, the ongoing costs are primarily the components themselves:
- Shotshells: The cost of empty hulls varies depending on the gauge and brand. Expect to pay anywhere from $0.20 to $0.50 per hull, especially if buying new hulls rather than recycling spent ones.
- Shot: The price of shot depends on the type (lead, steel, etc.) and size. Costs can fluctuate based on market conditions. Budget around $10-$20 per 25 lbs bag.
- Powder: Shotshell powder is typically more expensive than rifle or pistol powder. A pound of powder can cost anywhere from $20 to $40, depending on the type and brand.
- Wads: Wads center the shot and provide a seal. Prices vary based on gauge and type, typically costing a few cents per wad.
- Primers: Primers are a relatively small cost per shell but add up over time. Expect to pay $20-$40 for a box of 1000.
Per-Shell Cost Calculation: The precise cost per shell is heavily dependent on the price of components in your area and the specific components you choose. However, a reasonable estimate for a single 12-gauge shotshell could range from $0.30 to $0.70, depending on the factors listed above.
Factors Affecting Overall Cost
Several factors can significantly influence your reloading costs:
- Volume: Reloading larger quantities of shells reduces the per-unit cost of equipment. The more you reload, the better the return on your initial investment.
- Component Prices: Fluctuations in the market can impact the price of components, leading to variation in your overall cost.
- Waste and Errors: Improper reloading techniques can lead to wasted components and potentially dangerous misfires, increasing the overall cost.
- Time Investment: While reloading can save money, it also requires significant time and effort. Factor this into your cost-benefit analysis.
Is Reloading Shotshells Right for You?
Reloading shotshells can be a financially sound decision for high-volume shooters who are willing to invest the time and upfront costs. However, if you only shoot a few boxes of shells per year, the initial investment might not be worthwhile. Carefully consider your shooting habits and the costs involved before deciding if reloading is the right option for you. Accurate accounting of your expenses is critical to determining if it’s truly cost-effective in your specific situation.
