Im really interested in reloading from the videos Ive seen and the people I know. I can't afford a full 200 dollar reloading set for 9mm, and the classic loader kit costs only 20 bucks! So let me know what you think :D
IMHO I wouldn't bother with the hammer-powered Lee Loader. I'd pay $110.00 and get the Lee Challenger set (see the link Fred P. gave you). It has a press, scale, powder measure, a comprehensive reloading guide (and Lee advertisements galore!) and a priming tool. A lot of the components are plastic, but they work pretty well as long as you follow the instructions. Even though I long ago upgraded my press and scale, I still use the Challenger powder measure and priming tool for my low-volume single stage loading. I still actually prefer Lee dies to RCBS and Redding.
That okorder /... Look for a Lee four die set that includes the factory crimp die, it can save grief sometimes.
If I were you, I'd rather not. I started with one and after about 50 rounds I had enough. slow, labor intensive, and I discovered I needed a full length sizing die. so those 50 rounds i made were useless, because the classic kit did not have the right die, none of the rounds were sized right. I'd go with a entry level setup, like the Lee challenger single stage press kit for $125. (add dies supplies it's $200) or you cna do what I did next - a really stripped own setup Lee cast press (the $25 one) Lee dies set ($25) Dial Caliper. ($8) Lee Autoprime ($20) and that's all you'll need. the dies set includes powder measure load table.
You can get a Lee Breechlock Challenger Kit from Kittery Trading Post for less than $100 shipped. Search for 90030. I have never used the classic loader, but it looks tedious.
I am a reloading instructor. Those classic kits with the powder scoops - were the rage from 1950's to 1970 - and responsible for blowing up thousands of rifles. Back 200-160 yeas ago (go watch 'Quigly Downunder') you needed to carry a kit like this to make loads when traveling great distances between towns with ammo. Back then, gun powders were less powerful and more forgiving. Some folks used them to work up loads at the range, but, honestly have not seen anyone use one since the late 1970's. I 'assume' your hands, eyes, and reputation are worth more than $20? Because when you 'blow up a gun' at the range - you will be looking for a new hobby ........ unless you like the sound of people laughting behind your back. Smart handloaders use a $60 to $360 accurate manual scale or electronic scale and combo thrower. You could not pay me enough $$ to fire ammo made with those scoops! If you expect a $20 kit to work just as wonderful and safe as a $300 kit - well, I guess you just gotta live and learn. Somebody needs to be the example where you live.
