Updated: January 10, 2021
Ok, so, truth be told, very few people really like to read. It’s the dinosaur in our educational system, as television, computers, smart phones, and social media accounts have become the only thing that most people really like to pay attention to anymore. It’s a rather sad commentary on the state of our country.
However, reading is an essential skill to have, especially when you are trying to figure out how to use a product that you have purchased. Or when you want to follow a set of directions that explain how to properly use something. Narrowing on the main focus of our article, this is also true of those who are looking to reload their own cartridges. It’s especially important to learn this skill properly, because making one small mistake could cause your weapon to malfunction, and maybe even get you hurt.
So if you are an avid gun enthusiast as I am, then you are probably aware that following the directions for reloading your cartridges is absolutely essential. It’s the only way to be properly safe, and this is why it is important read the manuals that teach you how to properly reload your ammunition.
Top 10 Reloading Manuals You Must Own
In this article, we’re examining the best reloading book for learning this crucial skill. We’ll examine the best options on the market, so that you may make the choice that is most relevant to your own needs.
Now that you have some idea of what to look for in a reloading manual, here are some of the very best examples that I found. Not only for those who are beginners looking for reloading basics, but for experienced reloader who needs just a little bit of instruction on the more complicated aspects of reloading:
#1 Complete Guide to Handloading – 3rd Edition : Best All Around Reloading Manual
This has been one of the best guides to handloading that you can find on the market. This third edition is one of the best references for any person looking to do some serious reloading, because it is one of the most accurate and detailed in terms of the instructions that are provided.
It is even amazing that somewhat antiquated or obsolete cartridges are included, which makes it probably the most all-encompassing guide you are going to find. For a person who has been added at it for a while, this is a great guide that will provide you with virtually any information you may be looking for.
The one caution I will give is that many of the techniques that are described in this are not used as much today. Today’s methods of measuring the different pressure, for example, areis much more accurate than what the guide itself provides in this book. Plus, some of the powders in the book have changed in comparison to the new powders of today.
That being said, many of the tips, tricks, and techniques are timeless. And sometimes it’s worth starting with a historical foundation, and building from there.
However, tThis is still a great book that has invaluable information for you to use, and is one that I have had on my shelf since the first day I began to started reloading my own ammunition. It is the perfect gift for any hunter or marksman’s shelf.
#2 Lyman 50th Edition Reloading Manual
Lyman is a name that has been involved in reloading since the 19th century, so this is the kind of company that gives you confidence in the materials they have created. This confidence extents to this incredible reloading manual, which is one of the best and most popular on the market.
Just the fact that this is the 50th edition of this book pretty much tells you wall you need to know. They keep making it because so many people keep using it.
In this comprehensive manual, you will find one of the very best sections on the market in terms of load data. This is one of the most comprehensive guides that you are going to find. It not only provides you with valuable information, but gives you in-depth reloading data on exactly how you need to reload each type of cartridge.
Whether you are a beginner or a more advanced user, you are going to truly love the instructions that are provided. They are detailed, yet simple and easy to follow.
The upgraded Lyman manual has newer cartridges, such as the 6.5 Grendel, the 300 block out, the 300 RCM, and the 450 bushmaster. These newer cartridge reloading tips slot in alongside comprehensive explanations of virtually every other cartridge that has been on the market. So if you’re looking for one of the most detailed guides out there, this is it.
Lyman has long established itself as a company that you can depend upon to provide you with valuable information when it comes to reloading, and you will be pleased that you decided to purchase this one. It’s one of the best on the market, and it’s very easy to find any information you’re looking for.
#3 Modern Reloading Second Edition Hardcover – 2004
The Modern Reloading Lee Manual is a great guide that provides detailed information for rifles, pistols, and shotshell loading. There are 8000 different sets of instructions included on how to load different cartridges. What you can count on with this guide is methods and instructions that have been tested for decades, with each one providing the highest level of safety as well as accuracy. Many consider this the best reloading book on the market.
The guide is created so that it is easy to follow and easy to find the information you need. I really like how logical the format of this guide is, making it so that finding the load you desire is easy and intuitive. Plus, instructions are given in measurements that are easy for you to determine.
Included in this guide are cartridge drawings that provide you with complete dimensions, alongside easy to follow step-by-step instructions. You will find all the data you could need for modern cartridges, as well as for most of the older cartridge styles.
While Lee is the company that made this guide, it provides information for virtually every kind of cartridge you would want. Lee does get the most prominent position, but don’t be discouraged by that. You can be sure you’ll get what you’re looking for, no matter the type of cartridge.
#4 Sierra 6th Edition Rifle Handgun Reloading Manual Books : Best Reloading Manual for Beginners
This is the ultimate guide for a beginner. A person who is brand-new to the reloading process is someone who is looking for a complete manual, not just data necessary for reloading. They need a lot of information to learn exactly what they need to do to be able to properly reload the cartridges safely, and this guide is exactly what you are looking for.Included are several different references that provide information that you may need regarding how to reload, and there are also a wide number of topics that are covered, including the kind of equipment you need along with its use, safety precautions to take, the load data you need to know, and much more.
I love that this book went over the top in terms of how it explained things. The truth is that too much information is much better than not enough information. That is the attitude that is taken with this manual, which is something you will truly appreciate.
Because this is such a detail oriented guide for beginners, don’t get the wrong impression. There is a great deal of information here virtually every kind of cartridge a person may want to use. This is a thorough guide that a person with virtually any level of expertise would enjoy using. Truly a winner to say the least.
#5 Beginner’s Guide to Reloading Ammunition: With Space & Money Saving Tips
If you are a person who has very little understanding of how to reload cartridges, you are going to find this to be the ideal guide for reloading your ammunition. There are detailed sets of instructions, first of all explaining all of the different components that go into creating ammunition, as well as detailing how you use these parts to be able to reload a cartridge.
Every facet of the reloading process is described in detail, ensuring you are getting a valuable set of information each and every time. There is a detailed set of instructions for every kind of cartridge that is included in the book, and you will find that the vast majority of cases are included in here, including for pistols, rifles, and shotguns.
It is true that most of this guide is geared toward the reloading of metallic cartridges, but there is a chapter specifically on reloading shotgun ammunition. There are step-by-step instructions to ensure that you’re getting your full money’s worth and so that you can reload your ammo safely every time.
What you’re going to find is that after you have followed these instructions a time or two that you will feel like an expert. It really is that easy to follow them, and you will find that it does not take long to master the process because of the way it is described in this book. There really is no sense wasting your money on any other guide.
#6 Speer 9515 Reloading Manual Number 14
This is a book that is written to be component specific, ensuring that you are getting accurate instructions that you can count on to be precise each and every time. However, it is geared mainly towards products made by Speer, so if you do not have these components you may find this guide difficult to use.
Regardless of what kind of components you have, one thing you can count on is that the information that is provided for beginners is exceptional. You will find that if you are a complete beginner to the reloading process, there is invaluable information that can assist you in developing skills to become a better reloader.
For those who are using the Speer components, there is really no other guide you should purchase than this one. Each component you can use is described perfectly within this book, giving you detailed instructions and drawings that show you exactly how to use it in the reloading process.
Included are helpful tips and instructions, which are valuable for a person of any reloading experience. For a beginner, you will find the safety tips to be an invaluable guide that can help you to avoid any kind of mishap or waste. A fantastic guide you will truly love.
#7 Reloading for Shotgunners: 5th Edition
If you are a person who needs to reload shotgun shells there are great options out there for all-inclusive manuals. But you may be looking for something that is shotgun specific, and this is the perfect book for you. You will find that there is a complete set of data for each kind of shotgun case, including the 12, 16, 20, and 28 gauges as well as the .410 bore.
Included is all of the different loading data you would need for every one of the major manufacturers of these cartridges. There are also special sections to explain to you about different components to use, including steel and non-toxic loads. There are articles from experts in the industry, and men and women who have been reloading their cases and can provide you with invaluable tips to assist you to be efficient and safe.
You are going to find that from cover to cover there is useful information throughout this book. In fact, despite the fact that I have been doing this kind of reloading for nearly 45 years, there was some information here that I was unaware of. It had helped to dispel false information about reloading shotgun shells as well as provide detailed instruction on how to reload each kind of case.
If you are a beginner, you will love the fact that this provides the right kind of instructions to assist you in being able to reload your cartridges. Lyman has long established itself as one of the industry leaders and all products related to reloading, and this book is another fine example.
You simply are not going to find as detailed of a manual for shotgun shell reloading as you will from this one. So if you want a load manual that is clearly focused on the certain niche of shotgun shell reloading, this is definitely the book for you.
#8 Hornady 10th Edition Reloading Handbook
If you are planning to primarily use Hornady bullets and components, then this is the perfect manual for you to buy. The truth is that you don’t need a big book providing you with all kinds of information for components and cartridges if you don’t intend to use those components. Therefore, if Hornady is your choice then this is the guide for you.
Because of the fact that this is specifically geared towards this brand of products, there is a lot of detailed information that covers a wide range of topics related to Hornady products. There is a complete section included on service rifles, as well as the process of reloading each and every one of these cartridges (as well as tons of other information as well).
The powders and what is needed to produce these bullets is discussed in a way that is easy for you to follow, including tables and images that are detailed and accurate. The velocity and powder charts are as good as it gets, and you will be amazed at how expansive the data is for the popular cartridges that are available on the market today. This book is very accessible for beginners, but also detailed enough for experienced reloaders.
The truth is that there is no reason for you to buy a huge guide full of information if you are not intending to use those cartridges or components. If you are a person who loves the Hornady brand for the components they make, then there is really no reason to go to any other manual than this one. There is some great general information as well, but this is definitely more geared toward users of Hornady products.
#9 Precision Long Range Shooting and Hunting: Precision Rifle Handloading (Reloading)
This guide has practical everything you need for the long-range shooter or hunter. It’s a guide that is solely focused on rifle handloading, as well as almost everything surrounding rifle ammunition.
This guide is great because it starts with the basics and builds from there. It starts with a basic introduction to rifle handloading, and presents all information in terms that even beginners can understand. From there, it jumps into all the essential detail about cartridges, including the components, how to make, handloading equipment, and much, much more.
Once the basics are covered, this guide has many detailed sections about rifle handloading. It starts by explaining how to choose your components, then jumps into the proper equipment you need for handloading, and then includes detailed sections on using a reloading press, and also how to test your handloaded ammunition.
Overall, it’s a solid guide, with easily understandable information and plenty of helpful charts and pictures. However, it’s only really for those who are interested in reloading rifle ammunition. The guide is definitely geared toward long range shooters and hunters. But if this sounds like you, then this might be exactly what you’re looking for.
#10 The Practical Guide to Reloading Ammunition
We’ll finish off our list with one of our favorites. The Practical Guide to Reloading Ammunition is exactly what it sounds like, and it definitely lives up to its name.
This guide is geared toward beginners, and takes a simple approach to teaching the fundamental concepts of reloading. It focuses on simple language, and walking its readers through each concept. It makes this daunting subject accessible to just about anyone.
The guide organizes its information in the same way that a beginner would want to approach the subject. It starts with the basics, and explains the core concepts. Then, it explains the equipment you will need to get started. Then, it walks readers through the process, step by step. The guide is also full of helpful information that pertains to pistol reloading, rifle reloading, and other components.
Overall, it’s an easy, comprehensive guide for beginners. If you’re new to this topic and feeling a bit overwhelmed, give this guide a shot. It will give you the knowledge you need to get started, and take you through the process step-by-step.
Comparison Chart
| Reloading Manual | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Complete Guide to Handloading – Third Edition – Second Revision – A Treastise on Handloading for Pleasure Economy and Utility Hardcover – 1953 |
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| #2 Lyman 50th Edition Reloading Manual |
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| #3 Modern Reloading Second Edition Hardcover – 2004 |
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| #4 Sierra 5th Edition Rifle Handgun Reloading Manual Books |
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| #5 The Beginner’s Guide to Reloading Ammunition: With Space and Money Saving Tips |
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| #6 Speer 9515 Reloading Manual Number 14 |
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| #7 Reloading for Shotgunners : Best Shotshell Reloading Manual |
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| #8 Hornady 10th Edition Reloading Handbook |
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| #9 Precision Long Range Shooting and Hunting: Precision Rifle Handloading (Reloading) |
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| #10 The Practical Guide to Reloading Ammunition |
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How to Make the Perfect Choice?
Just like every product on the market, not every reloading manual you find is going to be the same. There are some that are significantly better so I wanted to give you some information on what to look for in a good reloading manual. Here are some things to consider:
- Calibers. When you are determining the reloading manual for yourself, you want to start by ensuring that it provides the information you need for reloading the caliber weapons you have. This means that if you are reloading older style weapons, you need a guide that has that kind of valuable information. Or if a specific kind of cartridge needs to be reloaded that it gives detailed information for you.
- Level of Expertise. One of the most important things to consider when purchasing any reloading manual is that it offers you detailed instructions as if you are a beginner. The likelihood is that you need this manual because you are trying to learn how to properly reload a certain caliber round, so it should start from scratch and be detailed to ensure that you are safely abiding by the process to reload the cartridge.
- Powders/Bullets. Any guide should give you a detailed description of exactly what kinds of powders and bullets are needed for every cartridge you are seeking. This should include such things as powder tolerances, as well as specifications related to the manufacturer.
- Type of Components You Use. What you will find in some manuals is that they are designed for a specific kind of weapon or brand-name. If you are a person who uses a wide range of components or who requires information for several different kinds of cartridges, you need to look at a more comprehensive manual.
- Images. Level of expertise is not the only concern you have. Sometimes being told what to do is not good enough. You may require diagrams or images to help you to understand exactly what you need to do and where you need to do it.
- Up to Date Info. There is also the concern that the manual you are buying provides you with up-to-date information on the newest cartridges or the newest techniques that are available for reloading. Some of the older manuals do not provide this kind of information, so make sure that it has what you need to properly perform any task.
Going Forward
Thanks for checking out our guide to the best reloading manuals. These guides are probably exactly what you’re looking for if you need to learn the basics of reloading a weapon. But these guides also contain plenty of useful information for experienced reloaders.
So even if you think you know it all, there is almost always something more you can learn. Check out our list to pick the best guide for expanding your knowledge and for becoming a more experienced and safer user of firearms.
