Bullet reloading learning resources?

I am a reloading instructor.

You have two or three choices. The best - signing up for class at your local sports store that is taught by someone recognized as knowledgeable.

Although the NRA does now have certified reloading instructors that teach at gun ranges...... they are required to teach exactly what is in the 'official' book. So, all the things I cover in my advanced class - you would never get out of an NRA class.

Last - and still not a bad idea - is search for someone who can mentor you. Needs to be someone who has loaded the same cartridges + actions you are looking at. Example: Many of the tricks and techniques used to make bolt guns more accurate - are totally forbidden in semi-auto ammunition. Some of the crimps we like to use in revolvers - would be totally wrong for a semi-auto pistol.

When I started reloading - I already had known over a dozen people who had blown up some very nice guns by making mistakes. I never paid heed to anyone of them - and - I taught myself. I started in 1978 with the philosophy that if it is not in black and white in the book - don't do it. And I make every round like it is the one that will take down my next moose or win the next match. That was 36 years ago and I actually stuck with a single stage press until just a few years ago.

If you are forced to learn on your own - keep in mind there are no stupid questions when it comes to reloading. If you cant find the answer - stop what you are doing and ask. Some pistol cartridges like most revolver and 45acp are very forgiving. Start there. Make small batches - take good notes as you test them. Don't go hog wild. You don't want to be 'that guy' who shows up at the range with a Home Depot 5 gallon orange bucket half full of 45acp - that wont fire or cycle! That, and your quality will improve very quick - especially if your goal is make ammo that looks identical in every way, shape and form like factory. This usually requires optional equipment like a tumbler and more attention to detail on sized case length, bullet seating depth, and case overall length. Not to mention treating your brass nice after it is ejected!

I used to contribute in the reloading section at AR-15.com until some jerk decided he was going to tell folks how to make their AR's more accurate by doing the forbidden steps. Never mind I had been reloading 223/5.56mm before he was born - he claimed his ideas were correct - because he had made thousands of posts on the web site and I had only done a few hundred.... so that made me a noob and not worthy. When you are online discussing reloading - be careful what you believe. The book says one thing - someone else says another - always stick with the book and you will never blow up a gun at the range.

I have several different reloading manuals and mine have very good explanations

of procedure. Cabela's has 2 video's that walk you through the process.

Many books are available as well as utube videos. Lots of fun for me.

Purchase a "Loading Manuel" and do a lot of reading "before" you start actually reloading. Simple mistakes can cost you much more than a weapon, they can kill