What do I need to look for in buying reloaded ammunition?

COL Jon Thompson — Sun, 05 Jul 2015 14:08:25 -0400

I enjoy shooting and am fortunate to have a free outdoor range available. So my biggest cost in shooting is ammunition. I have been considering buying some local reloaded ammunition just for target shooting. Many years ago, I bought some 9mm at a gun show and while I did not have any issues firing it, when I was cleaning my pistol, lead slivers were coming out of the rifling in the barrel. So what do I need to look for if I decide to buy reloads so that I am as safe as can be.

Response by PFC Ray C. Scheesley made Jul 5 at 2015 3:11 PM

PFC Ray C. Scheesley — Sun, 05 Jul 2015 15:11:25 -0400

I reload many different calibers. I do not sell any of my reloads because of the liability if I were to make a fatal error ending up in a squib load or an overcharged shell. It is one thing to be a giant ammo manufacturer with deep pockets to absorb a full lawsuit for blowing off a hand, eye or loss of life. The risk is too great. With that said, if you are buying reloads, 1) know the reloader, trust him/her. 2) stay away from solid lead rounds. They will fill your rifling lans with those lead slivers, decreasing accuracy. 3) know what was used to reload the rounds (powder type, bullet weight, primer type, etc) and HOW OLD the rounds are. Lastly, I insist on using sealant on primers for increased water resistant and extended storage. Jacketed rounds with sealed primers will last a long time when stored in ammo cans. The most important advice I could give as an experienced reloader is....KNOW THE PERSON WHO RELOADED THE AMMO.