Anybody buy BP factory loaded ammo over the internet + help for NEWBIE

[The Yankee Bandit]

Howdy all!

I recently purchased a repro Spencer and with the rifle came some black powder loaded ammo.  This was the first time I have fired BP ammo (other than a muzzleloader) and I was instantly smitten by the DARK SIDE.  Suddenly smokeless has lost all appeal.

I haven't ever reloaded although I am learning about it.  Could someone please recommend what equipment I will need - please be specific about names and models if possible.  I have Lyman dies for the Spencer and I want to build my reloading setup around that.

Also, in the mean time - until I can reload - I want to buy some BP ammo for my pistols and shotgun.  I have seen some companies on the interent that sell BP ammo and was wondering if anyone has experience with any of them.  Is there any difference in the companies and their ammo or are they basically the same.  I just want to be sure I make plenty of fire and smoke!   

Thanks,
The Yankee Bandit

[dutchman]

Before I started reloading I ordered my ammo from www.ammodirect.com. Never had a problem with them and they sell both smokeless and BP, cartridges and shotshells. Special section for CAS. If you don't see what you want, call 'em. They're very good at getting you what you want. Good prices too. As for reloading BP, one of the soot lords will have to help you there. I'm just getting started in BP myself.

[Cuts Crooked]

Howdy Yankee,

Never shot factory BP stuff..wasn't really available when I first got into BP shootin so I learned to load my own long ago.
Regarding reloading equipment and recommendations: I'm the original tightwad!!!! I use Lee dies and presses fer one reason...they's CHEAP! And they werk fine! Actually any press/die set up will work fer makin' BP ammo. I really prefer to see a pard start out with a single stage press until they get used to the variables involved, but this is true fer smokeless too. And you will always have a use fer a siingle stage press, no matter iffin ya end up with a super duper highfalutin progressive that does everything but shoot the ammo fer ya...the single stage will end up gettin used fer various projects. So it ain't a waste of funds to buy one first! Dies are dies! Most dies makers these days are making them "universal" and one comapnies dies will fit in most other companies presses. Buy what ya like (or like me, what's cheap) and they will last a life time.

Powder measures: There  are some BP specific measures out there that seem to be highly recommended, I don't use them so I won't give advise one them. Standard practice is NOT to use measures for smokeless powders with BP due to the chance of static causing an explosion. This has been disputed but I leave it up the individual to make that choice him/her self. But I will state that every BP shooter should invest in a set of Lee powder dippers! They are the single handiest item fer BP loading extant! With a full set of lee dippers one can build a load fer anythang ya think of and properly used they are as consistant as anything on the market.

Best advise I can give ya...Get started and have FUN!

[Marshal harpoluke]

 

Might try, Republic Metallic Cartridge Company, www,republicmetallic.com.

They load da Holy Black.

[Arcey]

Frightenin'.  I couldn't agree wit Cuts more - 'cept I use a Rockchucker......

It must be the 'cop' thing we got in common.....


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[Drydock]

-A Lee 4 hole Turret press
-A 4 pack set of Lee dies in the proper caliber
-A Lee Funnel for the powder thru die
-A Lee dipper set
-A Lee Auto Prime

Every thing you need to load excellent BP ammo, and all under $100  The Turret has some growing room built into it, and if somewhere down the line you feel the need to go full progressive  (IE-Dillon) its and excellent 2nd press to have as well.

www.midwayusa.com

[Arcey]

How's retirement, Drydock?  Sorry I missed ya 'fore ya left....


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[Drydock]

Welllllll,  I had a choice.  I coulda hung out with you, or the Carolina Belles . . . 

Retirement has its good points.  Doing nuthin' an gettin' paid for it is a fine thing.  Right now I've got applications with 3 sherriffs departments, now just waiting for the end of October to see what next years budget will bring.

Sure do miss shootin' with ya'll though.