Reloading

The 7mm Mauser, also known as the .275 Rigby, was an influential cartridge. Paul Mauser's creation went on to hold sway over the design of both military and sporting cartridges in the 20th Century.

Of course, saving money is one of reloading's great attractions, but it's not the only one. Perhaps more appealing is the flexibility the discipline gives shooters, allowing them to tailor ammo to their needs.

There is perhaps no more ubiquitous round than the .22 rimfire. It is a pretty safe bet that the first round most shooters sent down range came from the petite, yet practical cartridge.

Nickel brass cases are the shining gems of ammunition, resistant to tarnishing, no matter whose sweaty hands have been on them. But to use the component for reloading takes some understanding of the material's characteristics.

There are all sorts of cartridges, with all kinds of applications. But when the rubber hits the road, what makes a great cartridge? Well, dear readers, that is a complicated subject, but not one devoid of an answer.

The dominant feature of the belted magnum is, obviously, its belt. But, the unique facet of the cartridge's design does not function the way most believe it does.

For those aiming to milk the most accuracy from their bolt-action rifles there is a reloading technique right up your ally – neck sizing. By only resizing the neck of the cartridge shooters can tighten up their groups in a jiff.

It's hard to deny the bonded core bullet has been a game changer when it comes to ammunition. Offering incredible penetration, expansion and ballistic performance, the bullets have become the go-to option for big game hunters.

Energy is definitely a factor in what is called knockdown power, but there are other facets in play determining if a round will floor game. Location of the hit and construction of the bullet/slug are far more important elements.

One reason cited for the recent ammo shortage was increased buying and hoarding. If you’re one of those people with cases of ammo lining your garage or closet shelves, protect your investment and store your ammo where it will stay dry and ready to access with one of these 3 new options.

Cartridge crimping is the final step in producing ammunition and it must be done. But the type of crimp used to hold a bullet in place all depends on the type of ammo you're reloading.

There are few better ways to take reloading to the next level than casting your own bullets. And learning how to create your own projectiles has the added bonus of seeing you through tight ammo supplies.

At closer range, round nose bullets shine. From 200 yards on in, they are as accurate as spitzers, but deliver more energy on target.

Brass is the one reusable component from ammo, but sooner or later they'll need to be cut down to size. This is when case trimmers become a necessity for reloaders.

Muzzleloader advancements have come in leaps and bounds in recent years. Now Federal has tackled the bullet end of things with the introduction of its Trophy Copper Muzzleloader Bullet.

Take the guesswork out of reloading ammunition by checking out Handbook of Reloading Basics from Gun Digest.