Survival Reloading

Survival Reloading

Posted by Farren on 19th Sep 2025

Let’s face it. We’ve all, at some point in our lives, wondered what would happen should society take a turn for the worse. What would happen if the government suddenly prohibited manufactures from creating modern rounds. Or, worse still, what would happen should the manufacturers go out of business because of the SHTF chaos. The answer is, we don’t know.

So, how does that relate to reloading? As those who currently reload can attest, the skills to do so effectively and safely aren’t acquired overnight. In fact, most will tell you to study under a master or, at the very least, research until you are blue in the face before you reload your first round. After all, you are dealing with a substance that, in its very nature, goes boom. The process should be handled with extreme respect and care.

With that being said, what is the best way to ensure you are ready for whatever society throws at you? Learn everything you can about the method of reloading now. In doing so, you will be ready and know what you are doing before that time comes.

Research before Investing

While there is lower priced equipment available, to begin reloading your ammunition will take an initial investment of $500-800 dollars, depending on the route you take. Before you invest that money, you need to be sure you have the knowledge to perform the tasks needed as well as to make informed purchases.

Find a Mentor

Sure, the idea of a “reloading mentor” sounds crazy, but what better way to learn then from someone who has already mastered the art. Find someone in your area that is willing to show you the ropes and explain the process first hand to you. After all, it’s more involved than putting powder in a casing and adding a bullet to call it done.

This person should also be able to guide you in purchasing your first set up and getting you stocked with the supplies you need. This help, alone, is more than you will find in any book.

Make wise purchases

As mentioned before, there are tons of variations when it comes to equipment needed. However, make sure you have these few basic pieces of equipment on hand:

  • Hand-operated Press
  • Die for each caliber you plan to reload
  • Hand-Cranked Tumbler for cleaning
  • Gauges
  • Scales
  • Calipers

Every piece of equipment you purchase needs to be hand-operated. What good will an electric-powered press be to you in a “lights out” scenario.

Stock up on the supplies

Before you begin stockpiling thousands of primers and several pounds of powder, it may be wise to check with your town’s fire codes and laws. This is mainly due to the increased chances of explosions if these two items meet. If you can store a thousand primers and 20 pounds of powder, you should be set for the duration of the event.

You’ll also want to make sure you have plenty of brass for reloading. Since brass gets harder after each time it’s fired, it becomes unsafe to shoot after multiple times of shooting the same casing. Stocking up on brass is easy when you buy your brass in bulk from us here at Capital Cartridge.

The question isn’t if this sort of event will happen but when. That’s why it’s always good to be prepared and ready for anything.