Reloading your own .308 Winchester ammunition can be a rewarding hobby, offering significant cost savings and the ability to customize your rounds to your specific needs. However, understanding the true cost requires looking beyond just the price of components. This guide will break down the various expenses involved, helping you determine if reloading .308 is the right choice for you.
Initial Investment: Setting Up Your Reloading Bench
Before you can start saving money, you'll need to invest in the necessary equipment. This is the biggest upfront cost, but it's a one-time expense that pays off over time with consistent reloading.
Essential Equipment:
- Reloading Press: A good quality press is crucial. Expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $500+, depending on the type (single-stage, progressive) and brand.
- Dies: These shape and size your cases. A set of .308 Winchester dies typically costs between $50 and $150.
- Case Prep Tools: This includes tools for resizing, deburring, and cleaning cases. These can range from $50 to $150, depending on whether you opt for individual tools or a comprehensive kit.
- Powder Measure: Accurate powder measurement is critical for safety and consistency. Expect to pay between $50 and $150 for a quality powder measure.
- Scale: A digital scale is essential for precise powder weighing. Prices range from $50 to $200.
- Primer Seating Tool: This tool seats primers into the cases. These range from $20 to $80.
- Bullet Seating Die: This tool seats bullets into the cases. Often included in the die set.
Total Initial Investment Estimate: $370 - $980+ (depending on choices made).
Recurring Costs: Components and Supplies
Once your reloading bench is set up, you'll need to purchase the components for your ammunition:
Components:
- Brass Cases: These can be purchased new or you can collect spent cases from your shooting sessions. New cases cost around $0.50 - $1.50 per case, depending on the manufacturer and quality. Collecting spent cases will significantly reduce this cost but requires extra time and effort.
- Bullets: Prices vary greatly depending on weight, type (FMJ, JSP, etc.), and manufacturer. Expect to pay anywhere from $0.25 to $2.00+ per bullet.
- Gunpowder: Powder prices fluctuate based on market conditions and availability. A pound of powder can range from $20 to $50+.
- Primers: These are relatively inexpensive, usually costing between $0.10 and $0.30 per primer.
Cost per Round (Example): Let's assume the following costs per round:
- Brass: $0.75
- Bullet: $0.50
- Powder: $0.20
- Primer: $0.15
Total Cost per Round: $1.60
Comparing Costs: Reloading vs. Factory Ammunition
The cost savings of reloading become apparent when comparing it to purchasing factory ammunition. Factory .308 Winchester ammunition can range from $1.00 to $3.00+ per round, depending on the type and manufacturer. Our example shows a potential savings of approximately $0.40 to $1.40 per round. The more you shoot, the greater your savings.
Beyond the Numbers: Factors to Consider
While the cost savings are compelling, other factors should be considered:
- Time Investment: Reloading takes time and patience. Factor in the time spent prepping cases, weighing powder, and assembling rounds.
- Safety: Reloading involves working with explosive materials. Strict adherence to safety procedures is paramount.
- Learning Curve: It takes practice and learning to master the art of reloading. Beginners should start slowly and seek guidance from experienced reloaders.
Conclusion: Is Reloading .308 Right for You?
Reloading .308 Winchester ammunition can offer significant cost savings over buying factory ammo, but it demands an initial investment in equipment and ongoing dedication to safety and accuracy. Carefully weigh the initial costs, recurring expenses, and time commitment against your shooting habits and budget to determine if it's the right choice for you. If you're a serious shooter who plans to load a significant amount of ammunition, the long-term cost savings and customization possibilities can make reloading a very worthwhile endeavor.
