Author: RDGorski

Ammunition prices remain high. Shelves are often empty. And regulations are constantly changing. In 2025, more gun owners are turning to reloading as a way to take control, save money, and ensure consistent access to quality rounds.

At Titan Reloading, we help shooters at every experience level reload with confidence. Whether you’re trying to lower your costs or fine-tune your loads for precision, this guide explains why now is the best time to start reloading your own ammo.

1. Ammunition Costs Are Still High

The price of ammunition has not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Frequent shooters are feeling the impact, especially those who run through hundreds of rounds each month. Reloading helps reduce the cost per round significantly.

For common calibers like 9mm or .223, you can save between 30 and 60 percent depending on the components you use. If you shoot regularly, those savings add up quickly. With a reliable press and basic tools, your gear pays for itself in a matter of months.

2. Reloading Gives You Complete Control

Factory ammo is built for the average shooter. Reloading lets you tune every variable like bullet weight, powder charge, seating depth, and more, to suit your firearm and your preferences.

• Precision rifle shooters can tighten groups
• Hand gunners can reduce recoil for competition
• Hunters can load for expansion or penetration
• Preppers can stock up on rounds that suit multiple firearms

The level of customization reloading allows simply can’t be matched by factory loads.

3. It’s Easier to Get Started Than You Think

Many shooters assume reloading requires a huge budget or a workshop-sized space. In reality, all you need is a reliable press, a clean surface, and a few essential tools.

At Titan Reloading, we offer affordable starter kits, detailed how-to guides, and responsive support to help you get up and running. From single-stage presses for beginners to progressive setups for high-volume reloaders, we carry the full range of equipment for every skill level.

4. Supply Chain Disruptions Aren’t Going Away

Over the past few years, shooters have seen major shortages in both ammo and reloading components. While you can’t always control the supply chain, owning your own reloading setup gives you more flexibility.

By stocking your own primers, brass, powder, and bullets, you protect yourself from long delays and sudden price spikes. You’re no longer dependent on local inventory or inflated prices from third parties.

5. It’s a Skill You Own for Life

Reloading is more than a way to save money. It’s a valuable skill. You learn the science behind ballistics, how different components interact, and how to build consistent performance over time.

There’s also a strong sense of pride. Shooting a sub-MOA group with a round you built yourself is a feeling factory ammo can’t deliver.

Get Started with Reloading Your Own Ammo

In 2025, reloading is no longer just for hobbyists. It’s for anyone who wants more control, better value, and a deeper connection to their craft. At Titan Reloading, we make it simple to start and rewarding to master.

If you’re ready to reload with confidence, we’re here to help. Shop our full selection of reloading presses, dies, components, and accessories or contact our team for help choosing the right setup for your goals.

For reloaders who use a turret press, smooth and reliable indexing is essential to efficiency and accuracy. Yet, many users don’t fully understand how the indexing mechanism works or what to do if it feels off. At Titan Reloading, we receive a lot of questions about this. So, let’s break it down.

Whether you’re using the Lee Classic Turret Press or the Deluxe model, both rely on the same square ratchet indexing system. It’s a clever, low-maintenance design that handles tens of thousands of cycles when used correctly. But to get the most from your press, it helps to know how the parts interact.

The Square Ratchet and Index Rod: A Simple but Smart System

At the heart of the turret’s auto-indexing mechanism is a square nylon ratchet that rides along a ¼” x ¼” steel index rod. This ratchet is free to slide up and down within a plastic clamp mounted to the steel ram of the press.

Here’s what happens:

• On the downstroke, the ratchet disengages so the turret doesn’t rotate.
• On the upstroke, the ratchet locks into position. As it slides over the twist in the index rod, it causes the turret to advance to the next station.

This entire system allows the press to cycle smoothly between dies, keeping timing consistent without requiring adjustment.

Why It Works (And When It Doesn’t)

The nylon ratchet is made to be the weak link on purpose. If something binds or you accidentally operate the press against the intended direction, the ratchet fails before any damage is done to the rest of the machine. It’s cheap, replaceable, and designed with intention.

Most indexing issues come down to just a few things:

• Forcing turret removal when the ram is at the bottom of the stroke
• Not aligning the housing properly during reassembly
• Over-tightening the clamp screw, which can strip threads

The good news is that most issues are fixable without tools or adjustments, just proper alignment and a replacement ratchet if needed.

When and How to Replace the Ratchet

Your turret press comes with a spare ratchet, but most users won’t need it for years. Still, it’s helpful to know the replacement steps:

1. Raise the ram to disengage the ratchet from the twisted part of the index rod.
2. Remove the index rod and unscrew the nylon housing.
3. Insert the new ratchet flange side down.
4. Reinstall the housing carefully without overtightening.
5. Reinsert the index rod.

It’s that simple. No timing adjustments. No tweaking. Just drop it in and keep reloading.

Pro Tip from Titan: Raise the Ram Before Removing the Turret

If you remove the aluminum turret while the ram is at the bottom of the stroke, the ratchet is still engaged. That’s when damage can occur. Always raise the ram about an inch before removing the turret. This simple habit can extend the life of your indexing system significantly.

Getting Started with Turret Press Indexing

The square ratchet system may seem like a small part of your turret press, but it plays a big role in keeping your reloading sessions smooth and reliable. With a little understanding and routine care, it can last through tens of thousands of rounds.

At Titan Reloading, we’re here to help you reload with confidence. If you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade, check out the Classic Cast Turret Press Kit, one of the most efficient and reliable reloading systems on the market today. Still have questions? Call us at (262) 397-8819 to speak to an associate. You can also browse our FAQs section or check out our help videos anytime at TitanReloading.com.

If you’re serious about reloading, your bench is more than just a work surface — it’s the nerve center of your precision process.

Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading from a shaky folding table in the garage, building a reloading bench that’s stable, organized, and tailored to your workflow can drastically improve your accuracy, efficiency, and enjoyment.

At Titan Reloading, we’ve helped thousands of reloaders set up workspaces that not only fit their space, but actually make reloading safer, smoother, and more satisfying.

Here’s what you need to know to build a bench that actually works.

1. Stability Is Everything (Start with the Right Base)

No matter how simple or advanced your setup is, your bench must not move. A wobbly surface leads to inconsistent charges, misaligned crimps, and mounting frustration.

Bench-building tips:

• Choose 3/4″ plywood or butcher block for your top
• Use lag bolts or anchors if mounting to a wall
• If you’re working on concrete, consider Inline Fabrication’s Ultramounts, which raise and stabilize your press — and are available right from Titan Reloading

2. Plan Your Layout Around Your Process

A good bench layout should follow your actual workflow. Think in terms of zones, not chaos.

• Press zone: Centered, reinforced, and clear of overhead cabinets
• Prep zone: Space for case trimming, chamfering, and cleaning
• Storage zone: Drawers, bins, or pegboards for dies, shellholders, tools
• Powder and priming zone: Clean, isolated, and well-lit

To further streamline your process, consider mounting a small whiteboard behind your bench to track load data, reminders, or current project stats.

3. Organize for Speed (and Sanity)

It’s easy to let tools pile up — but digging through clutter every session kills momentum.

Tools to help organize:

• Magnetic tool holders for frequently used wrenches and calipers
• Small drawer units for primers, shell plates, and decapping pins
• Clear bins for sorted brass
• Bin barriers and wall organizers

At Titan Reloading, we not only offer the highest quality reloading equipment, but a variety of organization kits to help you make the most of tight spaces

To maximize organization, label everything. You’ll thank yourself when switching calibers mid-session.

4. Lighting and Safety Matter More Than You Think

Precision starts with visibility. Poor lighting = poor performance.

Upgrade your bench lighting with:

• LED strips under shelves
• Clamp-on gooseneck task lights
• Motion-activated overhead shop lighting (no fumbling for switches mid-pour)

Also, keep eye and ear protection nearby, store powder and primers separately, and ensure you have good ventilation if working with tumblers or case lube sprays.

5. Build for Flexibility, Not Just Today

Reloaders evolve. What you’re doing now might not be what you’re doing six months from now.

That’s why modular mounting systems (like the Inline Ultramount) and press plates are great long-term investments.

They let you:

• Swap between presses easily (single stage → turret → progressive)
• Add accessories without drilling new holes
• Rearrange your layout as your process matures

For example, your setup may contain a Lee Classic Turret Press mounted on an Inline Ultramount with a riser shelf and bin tray underneath.

It’s stable, ergonomic, and easy to grow with.

Build a Bench That Works as Hard as You Do

Reloading is precision work. When your workspace is set up right, everything flows smoother — your charges are more consistent, your cases are cleaner, and your results speak for themselves. If you’re ready to upgrade your bench or just need a few add-ons to dial it in, we’ve got you covered.

Explore our full lineup of presses, mounts, and workspace accessories at Titan Reloading. And if you’re not sure what fits your setup? Contact us — we’re reloaders too, and we’re happy to help.

Call us at (262) 397-8819 or visit www.TitanReloading.com to learn

Reloading your own ammunition gives you the power to tailor each round to your specific needs — but not all reloads are created equal. Whether you’re chasing game in the woods or punching paper on the range, the way you reload your ammo should reflect your goals.

At Titan Reloading, we know that precision matters.

That’s why we’re breaking down the key differences between reloading for hunting vs. reloading for competition, and why understanding those differences can dramatically improve your performance, your results — and even your safety.

1. Purpose Dictates the Load

When you’re reloading for hunting, the priority is terminal performance — ensuring the bullet delivers maximum impact to ethically and effectively take down game.

What changes:

• Bullet type: Soft point, bonded, or ballistic-tip bullets designed for expansion and deep penetration.
• Powder charge: Often near the higher end of the safe range to ensure enough velocity for expansion.
• Consistency: Less about extreme precision, more about reliability and stopping power.

A poorly selected bullet or inconsistent load can result in wounding rather than a clean kill. Hunting ammo must function in variable conditions — temperature, humidity, and rough terrain — and still perform flawlessly.

Competition Loads: Precision and Consistency

Competitive shooters — whether in benchrest, 3-gun, or long-range precision — value repeatable accuracy above all else.

What changes:

• Bullet type: Match-grade bullets with consistent weights and high ballistic coefficients.
• Powder charge: Tuned for the “sweet spot” of accuracy, not necessarily max velocity.
• Brass prep: Case uniformity is critical; expect full-length sizing, neck turning, and trimming.
• Primer seating and crimping: Done with meticulous attention to detail for consistency across every round.

Why it matters: A single flyer in a group can be the difference between winning and losing. Competitive reloaders obsess over every variable to squeeze out the tightest groups possible.

2. Case Life and Reload Count

Hunters typically don’t shoot hundreds of rounds in a season, so their brass might last longer. Competitors, on the other hand, cycle through brass rapidly and often push their loads close to performance limits, meaning cases may fatigue faster.

Always inspect cases for signs of stress like neck splits, loose primer pockets, or bulges — especially if you’re loading hotter for hunting or running high volumes for competition.

3. Environment and Conditions

Hunting reloads must be rugged. You’re dealing with the elements: rain, dirt, cold mornings, long hikes. Your ammo must be:

• Sealed properly to resist moisture
• Loaded in clean, dependable brass
• Tested for cycling and ignition under less-than-perfect conditions

Competition reloads thrive in control. You’re shooting from a stable bench, mat, or controlled position. That allows for:

• Tighter tolerances
• More delicate bullet seating
• Low-recoil loads tuned for minimal disruption between shots

4. Rifle Type Plays a Role

Bolt-action rifles (common in hunting) allow slightly more flexibility in seating depth and can handle longer COAL (cartridge overall length). Semi-autos (common in 3-gun or tactical competitions) require precise sizing and crimping for reliable feeding and ejection.

An overlength round that’s fine for a bolt-action could jam in an AR-platform rifle. Tailor your reloads not just to the activity — but to the firearm.

5. Recoil and Shooter Comfort

Hunters may tolerate more recoil in exchange for stopping power — after all, they’re likely taking one or two shots. However, competitors often seek lower-recoil loads to maintain control and reduce fatigue over dozens or hundreds of rounds.

 Use reduced-recoil powders and lighter bullets for competition when possible. For hunting, match bullet weight and charge to your specific game and distance.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Goal, Load Accordingly

Whether you’re harvesting your next buck or chasing a podium finish, how you reload matters just as much as what you’re loading. Precision reloading starts with understanding the mission — and tailoring every detail of your ammunition to meet it.

At Titan Reloading, we’re more than a reloading supplier — we’re your partner in performance. From premium presses to precision dies and components, we carry everything you need to build better ammo, no matter the goal.

Ready to Elevate Your Reloads? Visit www.TitanReloading.com today for trusted products, expert support, and the tools to reload with confidence — whether you’re on the hunt or on the line.

Have Questions? Call us at (262) 397-8819 or contact us here.

If you’re new to reloading or looking to upgrade your setup, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a single stage press and a turret press. This choice affects your efficiency, workflow, and overall satisfaction at the bench.

Each press type has its own strengths and ideal use cases, and understanding the differences will ensure you invest in the right equipment from the start.

This guide breaks down the mechanics, pros and cons, and real-world use cases of each, helping you choose the best press for your needs.

Understanding Single Stage Presses: Precision and Simplicity

A single stage press operates with one die at a time, requiring the user to complete each step (resizing, priming, seating, etc.) for a full batch of brass before changing dies and repeating the process.

How It Works:

You load one case into the press, perform one function, then repeat for the entire batch before switching dies.

Key Advantages:

• Maximum control over every step of the process
• Lower cost of entry — ideal for beginners
• Perfect for precision loads — especially rifle rounds
• Simple mechanics — less to maintain, longer lifespan

Ideal For:

• Shooters reloading for long-range precision or hunting
• Beginners seeking to master fundamentals step-by-step
• Reloaders producing low to moderate volumes per session

Understanding Turret Presses: Speed and Versatility

A turret press holds multiple dies on a rotating turret head, allowing you to perform all operations on a single case without switching dies. Some models allow manual turret rotation; others index automatically.

How It Works:

Insert one case, perform all reloading steps in sequence, rotate the turret head, then repeat for the next round.

Key Advantages:

• Increased efficiency — produce more rounds in less time
• Easy caliber swaps — turret heads can be changed quickly
• Retains manual control — ideal balance between speed and precision
• Less setup time — fewer adjustments between batches

Ideal For:

• Handgun shooters needing moderate to high volume output
• Reloaders working with multiple calibers frequently
• Those wanting to increase efficiency without going fully progressive

Side-by-Side Comparison: Key Differences That Matter

To help clarify the decision, let’s examine core functional differences between the two press types. But rather than just skimming features, we’ll explore how each impacts your experience at the bench.

Which Press Should You Choose? Let Your Needs Decide

If your goal is maximum precision, especially for rifle cartridges or small batch experimentation, the single stage press is the clear winner. It’s also the best way to learn reloading fundamentals with full control.

If you’re a handgun shooter or want to produce higher volumes efficiently—while retaining control over each round—the turret press offers unmatched balance. It’s fast, flexible, and scales with your needs.

Many reloaders start with a single stage press, then add a turret press as their volume increases—both have a place in an efficient, productive bench setup.

Why Titan Reloading? Trusted Gear, Expert Support

At Titan Reloading, you’ll find field-tested presses, complete starter kits, and personalized support from experienced reloaders.

Whether you choose single stage or turret, Titan ensures you get the right reloading equipment for your goals—backed by fast shipping and real-world expertise.

Get in touch with us today, call (262) 397-8819 or visit www.TitanReloading.com to learn more.

Reloading ammunition is an art and a science, and case preparation is one of its most critical components. Properly prepared cases ensure reliability, consistency, and safety, making them the foundation of any successful reloading process.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the essential steps of case preparation: cleaning, sizing, and trimming. Each step serves a vital purpose and contributes to the overall quality of your reloads.

Step 1: Cleaning Your Brass

Cleaning brass cases is the first step in the preparation process. Over time, cases accumulate carbon residue, dirt, and debris from firing and handling. Failing to clean them properly can lead to inconsistent seating, damage to your reloading equipment, and even unsafe rounds.

Some of the most common cleaning methods include:

• Tumbling
• Ultrasonic cleaning
• Manual cleaning

Tumbling

Tumbling is one of the most common ways to clean your brass, and there are two primary approaches to this method. The first method is dry tumbling. This method involves placing brass in a tumbler with walnut or corn cob media. It’s effective for removing surface grime and restoring a shiny appearance. Wet tumbling, on the other hand, uses stainless steel pins and a cleaning solution. This not only cleans the exterior but also removes carbon buildup inside the case and in the primer pockets.

Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaners provide a modern alternative for cleaning brass. These devices use sound waves to agitate a cleaning solution, effectively breaking down dirt and carbon residues on both the inside and outside of cases. Ultrasonic cleaning is fast and efficient, making it ideal for reloaders who want a thorough clean without the polish of tumbling.

Manual Cleaning

For those working with small quantities of brass, manual cleaning is a practical option. Using a brush and solvent, you can scrub away dirt and residues. While this method is time-intensive, it requires minimal equipment and is especially useful for reloaders just starting out.

Step 2: Sizing Your Cases

During firing, brass cases expand to fit the chamber of your firearm. Sizing restores them to their original dimensions, ensuring they’ll chamber properly in subsequent uses. This step is crucial for accuracy, consistency, and safety.

Reloading die sets are essential for sizing, with options for both full-length and neck-sizing dies. Proper case lubrication is also crucial to prevent sticking and damage during resizing. Options include spray, pad, or wax-based lubricants, depending on personal preference.

When sizing your cases, there are two primary methods: full-length and neck sizing.

Full-Length Sizing

Full-length sizing is ideal for cases used in multiple firearms. It ensures that the entire case, including the body and neck, is returned to factory specifications. This process is essential for firearms such as semi-automatic, lever-action, or pump-action models.

Neck Sizing

Neck sizing works well for bolt-action rifles using cases fired in the same chamber. This method resizes only the neck of the case, leaving the body and shoulder untouched. While it can improve accuracy, it may reduce reliability in other firearm types.

Step 3: Trimming Your Cases

Each time a case is fired and resized; it stretches slightly. Over time, this elongation can exceed the maximum allowable length specified in your reloading manual. Trimming cases to the proper length ensures safe and consistent performance.

The two primary types of case trimmers are manual and powered case trimmers.

Manual Case Trimmers

Manual case trimmers use a crank or lever to trim cases to the desired length. While slower than powered options, they are precise and affordable, making them ideal for hobbyists.

Powered Case Trimmers

For high-volume reloaders, powered case trimmers automate the trimming process, saving time and effort. These tools are a worthwhile investment for those processing large quantities of brass.

After trimming, the case mouth often has sharp edges or burrs. Deburring removes excess material from the exterior edge, while chamfering creates a slight bevel on the interior edge to facilitate smooth bullet seating.

Getting Started with Quality Case Preparation

Case preparation is the cornerstone of high-quality reloading. By cleaning, sizing, and trimming your brass properly, you’re laying the groundwork for safe, reliable, and accurate ammunition. Skipping or rushing through any of these steps can lead to inconsistent performance, equipment damage, or even dangerous malfunctions.

Investing time and effort into mastering these processes not only enhances your reloading experience but also contributes to the satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition.

At Titan Reloading, you can reload with confidence, knowing specialists are here to help with any questions you may have.Call us at (262) 397-8819 or to get started with quality materials for your next case preparation, browse our products here. We offer a wide range of supplies, from reloading dies to case trimmers, providing a quality foundation for your next reloading batch.