The cheapest way to get into reloading is the Lee Classic Loader (45 ACP shown here), $26.99 (in 2013) from midwayusa.com.
Be sure to verify the caliber before clicking the purchase button.

Revised: 30 January 2014

Measuring the crimp is arguably one of the most difficult measurements to take when reloading ammunition.

There are two general processes to cleaning brass, the wet and the dry methods.

In no particular order, here they are.

I think I’ve got it!

Or rather I should say that I think Don Plante figured it out.

On-hand, I had five categories: brand new Starline, once-fired Remington, two flavors of “a few firings” (Winchester and Starline), and my practice brass that’s been fired and reloaded a dozen or so times.

Today - er, make that Sunday last - was “test magazines” day.

The hammer hits the firing pin and that hits the primer, but it doesn’t go bang. Removing that round and looking at its backside, the dent in the primer is smaller than it should be.

This is the last of a five part series on tolerances in reloading.