How Can You Reload a .22?

Reloading firearm ammunition can be done for several reasons, such as saving money, increasing performance and verifying the quality of the materials used for the ammunition. Reloading is most often done by antique firearms collectors, who create their own ammunition because their weapon's ammunition is no longer manufactured. Although generally done by professional gunsmiths and hand loaders, amateur reloading for a .22 caliber rifle can be done with proper care and the right tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Ammunition cases
  • Clean cloths
  • Lubricant
  • Lubrication pad
  • Press
  • Shell holder
  • Sizer die
  • Case trimmer
  • Primer pocket tools
  • Crimping tool
  • Priming tool
  • Powder measure
  • Scale
  • Powder funnel
  • Seater die
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wipe all of the cases with a clean cloth to remove any residue or used gun oil. Inspect the cases for defects. Discard any unusable cases.

    • 2

      Use a lubrication pad to lightly oil down the inside each case.

    • 3

      Use the handle of the press to slide the case into the shell holder; the handle should be set to the upper position.

    • 4

      Lower the press handle all the way down, running the case into the sizer die. Move the press handle back to the upper position.

    • 5

      Trim any cases that have become too long from use with a case trimmer. Ensure that the case has uniform thickness using the pocket measuring tool. Deburr any uneven spots as necessary with the crimping tool.

    • 6

      Prime the case by inserting into the case holder. Lower the handle of the primer and insert the primer arm fully into the slot of the shell holder arm. Raise the handle again, which will allow fresh primer to be placed in the seat of the primer pocket. Inspect to verify that the primer is set.

    • 7

      Consult an online reloading manual to choose the right powder for your load. Weigh the proper amount using a scale. Add the powder to the case using a powder funnel.

    • 8

      Use the seater die to do the final set up the case. Place the case in the shell holder and lowed the handle; the case should align with the top of the press stroke. Turn the die until it stops. Back the die up one turn, then secure the die using the die lock ring.

    • 9

      Remove the seater plug by unscrewing it; the keeps the bullet from setting too deep. Insert a charged case into the shell holder.

    • 10

      Place a bullet above the case mouth at the same time you ;lower the press handle. Raise the handle and make note of the seated depth. Repeat the process if the bullet is not seated deep enough.