Reloading Safety Tips and Best Practices

Many reloading safety tips and best practices are common sense, such as not smoking while working with firearms. Thoroughly reading and understanding the instructions provided by your reloading equipment manufacturer is also critical. 

Reloading is a precision process that requires your full attention. Be sure to minimize distractions and keep your work area clear of television, music, and visitors. 

Use the Right Components 

The reloading process requires the right components to function properly. This includes using a high-quality rifle bullet and a premium brass case. This ensures that the loaded round will fire safely and reliably. 

Another key component is a reliable set of tools, such as a bullet comparator and concentricity gauge. These tools help reloaders achieve consistent bullet seating depth and minimal case runout, which helps produce more accurate ammunition. 

When reloading, it is important to stay focused and avoid distractions. This is especially important when handling combustible materials like gunpowder and primers. It's also a good idea to establish a reloading routine and stick with it until you've fully mastered it. 

Always use the components recommended by the manufacturer, and never mix or substitute them for other items. Doing so can compromise your safety and ruin the integrity of your load data. In addition, be sure to thoroughly inspect and discard any components that appear worn or tampered with. 

Keep Your Work Area Clean 

Keeping your work area clean is a crucial aspect of reloading. Spilled powders, unused components, and empty cartridge cases present a fire or injury risk and should be cleaned up promptly. It’s also a good idea to keep all materials and tools away from small children who could get them mixed up. 

Lead isn’t the friendliest material to come in contact with, so it’s a good idea to wash your hands often while working on reloading. Also, wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp or pinching tools. 

Reloading is a time-consuming and tedious task that requires your full attention. Don’t rush the process or try to multitask; it will most likely result in costly mistakes and possibly serious injuries. Take your time, follow the proper procedures, and double-check all settings and measurements. Educate yourself on reloading safety by reading reputable handbooks and talking to experienced reloaders. 

Keep Your Food and Drinks Out of the Reloading Area

Reloading involves working with explosive compounds, so it's important to avoid eating or drinking in the area where you're doing it. This simple step helps prevent any accidental detonation or spills that could be dangerous. 

You should also keep food and drinks away from the reloading area altogether, as even small amounts of food or drink can distract you and lead to mistakes. It's also a good idea to avoid smoking or having open flames near the reloading area. 

Finally, give reloading your full attention and don't attempt to do it while distracted by TV or phone, bickering with friends, or anything else. Reloading is a precision process that requires your undivided attention, and you don't want to make any mistakes that could prove deadly. 

Wear the Right Gear 

Reloading is a fun and engaging hobby, but it’s important to make safety a priority. By following these simple reloading safety tips and best practices, you can help protect yourself and your reloading supplies. 

Always wear protective gear, such as eye and ear protection. This helps to keep you safe from any potential debris or chemicals that may come flying out of your equipment, as well as loud noises that can cause hearing loss. 

It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing while working, especially when reloading. Long hair or dangling jewelry can be a danger to yourself and your equipment, and loose-fitting pants or unzipped safety vests could become trip hazards. 

Finally, be sure to store all of your reloading supplies in a cool and dry place, away from children or any potential source of ignition. It’s also a smart idea to label and date all of your reloading powder containers. This can help you keep track of how often you’ve used each type of powder.