Reloading equipment for 9mm is about selecting the right tools to safely and accurately craft your own ammunition, saving money and tailoring loads to your specific needs. Get the essentials, and you’ll be on your way to becoming a proficient reloader.
If you’re looking to reload your own 9mm ammunition, you’ve come to the right place! Many shooters find that reloading can be a rewarding way to save money, customize their loads for better accuracy, and gain a deeper understanding of their firearms. It might seem a bit daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it’s an achievable skill for anyone. We’ll break down exactly what you need to get started. This guide will walk you through the essential reloading equipment for 9mm, making the process clear and straightforward. By the end, you’ll know precisely what to look for. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Basics of 9mm Reloading
Reloading, also known as handloading, is the process of assembling new cartridges from individual components: spent case, primer, propellant (gunpowder), and projectile (bullet). For 9mm, this process offers several advantages:
- Cost Savings: Over time, reloading can significantly reduce the cost per round compared to buying factory-loaded ammunition, especially for high-volume shooters.
- Customization: You can tailor your loads to your specific firearm. This means experimenting with different powders, bullet weights, and seating depths to achieve optimal accuracy and performance.
- Accurate Control: Reloading allows you to meticulously control every aspect of your ammunition, ensuring consistency and quality.
- Supply Reliability: In times of ammunition shortages, reloading can ensure you always have rounds for practice and shooting.
However, it’s crucial to remember that reloading requires precision, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety. Errors can lead to dangerous malfunctions. Always follow established reloading manuals and safety guidelines strictly.
Essential Reloading Equipment for 9mm
To get started with reloading 9mm cartridges, you’ll need a core set of equipment. While there are many optional accessories, these form the foundation of any reloading setup:
1. Reloading Press
The reloading press is the most critical piece of equipment. It’s the mechanical device that holds the cartridge case and applies the necessary force to perform various operations, such as resizing, decapping, priming, and seating the bullet. There are several types, but for beginners reloading 9mm, a single-stage press is often recommended.
- Single-Stage Press: This is the simplest type. For each operation (decapping/resizing, priming, flaring, seating, crimping), you manually change the die and perform one stroke of the press handle. They are generally more affordable, robust, and easier to learn on.
- Turret Press: A step up from single-stage, a turret press has multiple tool heads (turrets) that can hold different dies. You rotate the turret to move from one operation to the next. This speeds up the process slightly.
- Progressive Press: These presses perform multiple operations simultaneously with each pull of the handle, producing a finished cartridge with every stroke. They are the fastest but also the most complex and expensive, often not recommended for absolute beginners.
For 9mm reloading, a sturdy single-stage press is perfectly adequate and allows you to focus on learning each step correctly. Popular choices include the Lee Precision C, RCBS Rock Chucker, and Redding T-7 Turret Press. RCBS and Redding generally offer higher-end, more precise options.
2. Reloading Dies
Dies are specialized tooling that fits into your press and performs specific functions on the cartridge case. For 9mm, you’ll typically need a three-die set:
- Full-Length Resizing and Decapping Die: This die resizes the entire case back to its original dimensions and removes the spent primer.
- Powder Through Expanding Die: After resizing, the case mouth often needs to be slightly flared to accept the new powder charge easily without spilling. This die does both expanding and has a powder funnel built-in, if used with a compatible powder measure.
- Seating and Crimping Die: This die seats the bullet to the correct depth and then applies a crimp to the case mouth to hold the bullet securely. For 9mm, a taper crimp is usually preferred over a roll crimp.
When purchasing dies, ensure they are specifically for 9mm Luger (also known as 9x19mm Parabellum). Lee Precision often offers cost-effective die sets, while brands like RCBS, Redding, and Hornady provide high-quality, precision dies.
3. Powder Measure
Accurate powder measurement is paramount for safety and consistency. A powder measure dispenses a precise volume of gunpowder. There are two main types:
- Drip-Through Powder Measures (e.g., Lee Perfect Powder Measure): These are simpler and mount directly into the press or a separate stand. They dispense powder when you pull the handle on an empty case.
- Rotary Powder Measures (e.g., RCBS, Redding, Hornady): These are standalone units mounted on a bench. They are generally considered more accurate and versatile, allowing for precise adjustments.
For repeatable accuracy, a high-quality rotary powder measure is recommended. Many reloaders also use an electronic scale in conjunction with their powder measure for verification.
Important: Always consult a published, up-to-date reloading manual for recommended powder charges. Never guess. Starting with the minimum charge and working up slowly is a fundamental safety practice.
4. Reloading Scale
While powder measures dispense volume, a scale measures weight. A reloading scale is essential for verifying the accuracy of your powder measure and ensuring each charge is precisely what you intend. Even if your powder measure is set correctly, checking a few charges randomly with a scale is a critical step.
- Beam Scales: These are traditional, mechanical scales that use a balance arm and calibrated weights. They are reliable and don’t require batteries but can be slower to use.
- Digital Scales: Electronic scales provide a quick digital readout and are generally very accurate. They require batteries or AC power and need to be zeroed properly before each use.
It’s a good practice to have both. Use your powder measure for speed and verify its consistency with a digital or beam scale for accuracy and safety. For powder measurement verification, you can check out the Federal Premium Reloading Guide, which highlights the importance of precision in powder charges.
5. Priming Tool
Primers are small, sensitive components that ignite the gunpowder. They are seated into the primer pocket at the base of the case. You can prime cases using:
- In-Press Priming System: Many reloading presses have built-in priming arms that use universal primer strips or trays. This is convenient as it can be done in conjunction with other operations.
- Bench-Mounted Priming Tool (e.g., RCBS Hand Priming Tool, Lee Auto-Prime): These are separate tools that offer more tactile feedback and control over primer seating. Many reloaders prefer these for their feel and precision.
Regardless of the tool, care must be taken to seat primers correctly – not too shallow (which can cause misfires) and not too deep (which can cause accidental ignition). They should be seated flush with the base of the case.
6. Case Preparation Tools
Before resizing and priming, cases need to be cleaned and prepared. This involves:
- Case Tumbler/Cleaner: Over time, cases can become dirty, tarnished, or corroded. A tumbler uses media (like walnut shells or corncob with a polishing agent) to clean and polish cases, making them easier to work with and inspect.
- Deburring Tool: When a case is fired, the primer flash hole can sometimes burr inward. After resizing and decapping, using a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges from the inside of the case mouth and the flash hole is good practice.
- Case Gauges: After resizing and seating the bullet, a case gauge is used to check if the finished cartridge is within specifications for proper chambering. This is a critical safety check.
7. Powder Funnel
Once the case is expanded (flared), you need a way to pour gunpowder into it. A simple funnel specifically designed for reloading ensures that powder doesn’t spill onto your workbench or the press. Often, the powder-through expanding die has an integrated funnel, but a separate, dedicated funnel can be useful.
8. Case Lubricant
Lubricating cases before resizing is crucial, especially with older or harder brass. The lubricant reduces friction between the case and the resizing die, preventing cases from sticking and making the resizing process smoother and less strenuous on your press. Use a lubricant specifically designed for reloading (e.g., Imperial Sizing Wax, Dillon Case Neck Lube).
9. Bullet Puller
Mistakes happen! You might drop too much powder, seat a bullet too deep, or make another error. A bullet puller allows you to safely disassemble a loaded cartridge and reclaim the components, rather than discarding the entire round. There are two main types:
- Collet-Type Bullet Puller: These attach to your press and use a collet to grip the bullet while the press stroke pulls it out.
- Impact-Type Bullet Puller: These look like a die and use kinetic energy. You insert the cartridge, strike the tool sharply on a workbench, and it pops the bullet out.
A collet-type puller is generally considered more controlled and versatile.
10. Reloading Manuals and Data
This isn’t “equipment” in the traditional sense, but it’s the MOST important tool. You absolutely need up-to-date reloading manuals from reputable sources. These books contain crucial data on safe powder charges, bullet compatibility, primer types, and case specifications for virtually every caliber, including 9mm. Popular sources include:
- Load books from powder manufacturers (Hodgdon, Alliant, Accurate, Vihtavuori)
- Comprehensive guides from die manufacturers (Lyman, RCBS)
- Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading
- Nosler Reloading Guides
It’s advisable to consult multiple sources and always start with the lowest recommended load, working up incrementally to find your optimal load. The Speer Reloading Manual is a widely respected resource. Always ensure you are using the most recent edition of any manual.
Optional but Recommended Equipment
As you become more experienced, you might consider these additions to enhance your reloading process:
- Case Trimmer: While 9mm is a straight-walled cartridge and doesn’t typically lengthen significantly to require trimming after resizing, it’s good to have if you ever reload bottlenecked rifle cartridges.
- Case Neck Turner: Similar to a trimmer, not usually necessary for 9mm.
- Powder Scale Trickler: Used to add powder one kernel at a time to achieve very precise charges, especially for rifle loads or when approaching maximum powder limits.
- Bullet Comparator: Aids in accurately measuring bullet seating depth.
- Dial Caliper: Useful for precise measurements of case dimensions, bullet measurements, and overall cartridge length.
- Case Vulcanizer or Annealer: These advanced tools address case brass stress and elasticity over multiple reloadings, typically for rifle brass. Not commonly used for pistol brass like 9mm.
- Powder Scale Pan: A small container to hold powder when weighing charges, often static-resistant.
Your First 9mm Reloading Setup: A Practical Shopping List
To get you started on your 9mm reloading journey, here’s a suggested list of fundamental items:
| Item | Description | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
| Reloading Press | Single-Stage Press (e.g., Lee Precision Challenger Breech Lock, RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme) | The core tool for resizing, priming, seating, etc. |
| 9mm Luger Die Set | 3-Die Set (Resizing/Decapping, Expanding/Flaring, Bullet Seating/Crimping) | Performs all necessary operations on the case. |
| Powder Measure | Rotary-Type (e.g., RCBS Uniflow, Redding Model 3BR) or a quality beginner measure. | Dispenses consistent powder charges. |
| Reloading Scale | Digital, accurate to 0.1 grain (e.g., Frankford Arsenal F-150, Hornady Lock-N-Load) | Verifies powder charge accuracy. Essential for safety. |
| Priming Tool | Bench-mounted (e.g., RCBS Hand Priming Tool) for better feel. | Seats primers safely and accurately. |
| Case Tumbler | Vibratory tumbler with media (e.g., Frankfort Arsenal Rotary Tumbler, Lyman Turbo Sonic) | Cleans cases for inspection and easier reloading. |
| Powder Funnel | Specific to the caliber or universal. | Prevents powder spillage. |
| Decapping/Resizing Lubricant | Sizing wax or spray lubricant. | Prevents stuck cases. |
| Deburring Tool | A simple chamfer/deburring tool. | Prepares case mouths and flash holes. |
| Case Gauge | 9mm Luger Case Gauge. | Crucial safety check for finished rounds. |
| Bullet Puller | Collet-type, caliber-specific (e.g., Hornady Cam-Lock, RCBS Collet Bullet Puller). | Safely disassembles loaded cartridges. |
| Reloading Manual | Latest edition (e.g., Hornady, Sierra, Lyman). | Absolutely vital for safe load data and procedures. |
Note: You will also need to source individual reloading components: 9mm cases (fired and cleaned), primers (small pistol), propellant (gunpowder suitable for 9mm, like Accurate #5, Alliant Unique, Hodgdon HS-6), and bullets (e.g., 115gr, 124gr, or 147gr jacketed hollow points or full metal jackets). Always check reputable reloading data for component compatibility. For safe handling practices, refer to the ATF’s Guide to Firearms Components regarding legalities and safe handling.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Overview
Here’s a simplified look at the steps involved in reloading 9mm, assuming you have cleaned your brass:
Step 1: Inspection and Cleaning
Inspect each fired 9mm case for cracks, splits, or significant damage. Clean them thoroughly using a tumbler. Clean brass is essential for easy inspection and reliable resizing.
Step 2: Resizing and Decapping
Set up your resizing/decapping die in the press. Apply lubricant to the outside of the case neck and body. Place a case in the shell holder, lower it into the die, and pull the press handle to resize the case back to factory dimensions, while simultaneously removing the spent primer.
Step 3: Expanding the Case Mouth
Install the powder-through expanding die. Drop a case into the shell holder. As you raise the press handle, the die will expand the case mouth slightly. If using a powder-measure-on-press setup, the expansion also provides the surface for the powder drop. A slight flare is perfect – too much can weaken the case mouth or make seating difficult.
Step 4: Measuring and Dispensing Powder
This is a critical step. Set your calibrated powder measure to dispense the desired charge weight according to your reloading manual. Dispense the charge into your powder scale’s pan and verify its accuracy. If it’s correct, dump the powder from the measure into the expanded case. If it’s off, adjust the measure and try again. Repeat this process for each case, verifying charges periodically with your scale.
Step 5: Seating the Bullet
Install the bullet seating die. Place the primed case with powder and a bullet on top into the shell holder. Raise the press handle. The die will guide the bullet into the case mouth and seat it to your desired overall cartridge length (OAL) as specified in your manual. Adjust the seating stem to achieve precise depth.
Step 6: Crimping the Case
Most 9mm loads require a taper crimp to set the bullet securely in place and remove any residual flare. Your seating die often has a built-in taper crimp. After seating the bullet, you might need to adjust the die to apply the correct crimp. Avoid over-crimping, which can damage the case or bullet.
Step 7: Final Inspection and Case Gauging
Visually inspect each completed cartridge. Check for proper bullet seating, a neat crimp, and any obvious defects. Most importantly, drop each finished cartridge into your 9mm case gauge. If it doesn’t drop in, or if it sits too high, it’s out of spec and should not be fired. This check is critical for ensuring the ammunition will function in your firearm.
| Step | Action | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clean & Inspect Brass | Remove dirt, debris; check for cracks/damage. |
| 2 | Resize & Decap | Lubricate case; ensure full stroke for proper resizing. |
| 3 | Expand Case Mouth | Slight flare only; prepare for powder. |
| 4 | Measure & Dispense Powder | CRITICAL SAFETY STEP. Verify charge weight with scale. Never deviate from manual data. |
| 5 | Seat Bullet | Achieve correct overall length (OAL) as per manual. |
| 6 | Crimp Case | Remove flare, secure bullet. Avoid over-crimping. |
| 7 | Final Inspection & Gauge | Visual check and use case gauge for chambering safety. |
Safety First: The Golden Rules of Reloading
Safety cannot be overemphasized in reloading. Treat every step with utmost seriousness. Here are some non-negotiable rules:
- Always use up-to-date reloading manuals. Data changes, and older information might be unsafe.
- Never mix powders. Different propellants have vastly different burn rates and energy densities.
- Start with minimum loads and work up slowly. Never start at maximum or try to exceed published data.
- Inspect ALL components. Ensure cases, primers, and bullets are correct and undamaged.
- Use a powder scale religiously. Verify charges, especially when changing powder lots or experimenting.
- Never use damaged primers or damaged cases.
- Ensure proper case lubrication.
- Always use a case gauge. This is your final defense against over-pressure and feeding problems.
- Keep your reloading area clean and organized. Avoid distractions.
- Store components and loaded ammunition safely and securely. Keep them out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals.
- Understand headspace. While less of a concern for straight-walled pistol cases like 9mm when using proper dies, improper seating depth can be an issue.
- If something feels “off” during reloading or shooting, stop immediately.
For comprehensive guidance on safe ammunition handling and reloading practices, the National Reloading Manufacturers Association (NRMA) provides valuable resources on safety protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the most important piece of reloading equipment for 9mm?
- The most critical piece of equipment is arguably your reloading manual. Without it, you lack the essential safety data for powder charges, OAL, and procedures. After that, the press and dies are fundamental.
- Can I use the same dies for 9mm Luger and 9mm Makarov?
- No. While both are 9mm, they are different cartridges with different case dimensions. You must use dies specifically designed for 9mm Luger (9x19mm Parabellum).
- How much money can I realistically save by reloading 9mm?
- Savings vary greatly depending on the cost of factory ammunition in your area, the components you buy in bulk, and the efficiency of your reloading process. However, for active shooters, savings of 30-60% per round are common over the long term, after the initial investment in equipment.
- Is reloading 9mm harder than reloading rifle cartridges?
- Generally, 9mm is considered one of the easiest cartridges to reload. It uses straight-walled brass, which is simpler to work with than bottlenecked rifle cases. Priming is also straightforward. The main challenge is consistent powder and bullet seating.
- What kind of powder is best for 9mm reloading?
- There are many suitable powders. Common and reliable choices include Hodgdon HS-6, Winchester Auto-Lite, Accurate #5, Alliant Unique, and Vihtavuori N310 or N320. Always refer to your reloading manual for specific recommendations based on bullet weight.
- How many times can I safely reload a 9mm case?
- The number of times a 9mm case can be reloaded varies widely. It depends on the quality of the brass, the pressure of the loads, and how the cases are handled and processed. Cases should be inspected after each reload for cracks, stretched primer pockets, or other signs of stress. Many shooters get 5-15 reloads from a case, but always err on the side of caution.
- Do I need a case trimmer for 9mm?
- For 9mm Luger, a case trimmer is typically not required. The case is straight-walled and does not lengthen significantly after resizing to necessitate trimming to maintain proper chambering dimensions. However, it’s an essential tool for many rifle cartridges.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey of reloading 9mm ammunition can be incredibly rewarding. By understanding and acquiring the essential equipment – the press, dies, powder measure, scale, and priming tools – you lay the groundwork for safe, accurate, and economical shooting. Remember, safety is paramount. Always rely on up-to-date reloading manuals, meticulously verify your powder charges, and perform thorough inspections. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll soon be producing your own high-quality 9mm rounds, gaining a deeper connection to your sport and your firearm. Happy reloading!