Reloading Supplies Canada: Everything You Need to Know

Reloading your own ammunition can save you money and give you a greater sense of control over the quality of your rounds. However, to get started, you need the right equipment and supplies. In Canada, there are several options available for purchasing reloading supplies. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about reloading supplies in Canada, including where to buy them and what to look for.

Table of Contents

1. What is reloading?
2. Why reload your own ammunition?
3. Where to buy reloading supplies in Canada
4. What reloading supplies do you need?
5. Presses and kits
6. Dies and shell holders
7. Powder measures and scales
8. Primers
9. Brass cases
10. Bullets
11. Case cleaning and preparation
12. Reloading manuals and guides
13. Safety considerations when reloading
14. Common mistakes to avoid when reloading
15. Conclusion

What is reloading?

Reloading is the process of making your own ammunition by assembling individual components such as cases, primers, powder, and bullets. This process allows you to customize the load for your firearm and can result in better accuracy and consistency.

Why reload your own ammunition?

Reloading your own ammunition can be a rewarding hobby and can save you money in the long run. Additionally, you have greater control over the quality and performance of your rounds, allowing you to fine-tune the load for your specific firearm.

Where to buy reloading supplies in Canada

There are several options for purchasing reloading supplies in Canada, including online retailers and brick-and-mortar stores. Some popular online retailers include:

• Cabela’s Canada
• Bass Pro Shops Canada
• Rangeview Sports
• Tenda Canada
• Higginson Powders

In addition to online retailers, there are also several brick-and-mortar stores across Canada that specialize in reloading supplies, including:

• Al Flaherty’s Outdoor Store in Toronto
• Reliable Gun in Vancouver
• The Shooting Edge in Calgary
• Western Metal in Winnipeg
• Wolverine Supplies in Virden

What reloading supplies do you need?

To get started with reloading, you will need several basic supplies, including:

Presses and kits

A reloading press is the centerpiece of any reloading setup. This is the tool that is used to assemble the individual components into a finished cartridge. There are several types of presses available, including single-stage, turret, and progressive presses.

Kits are available that include everything you need to get started with reloading, including a press, dies, and other essential components.

Dies and shell holders

Dies are used to resize and shape the brass casing, seat the bullet, and crimp the casing. Shell holders are used to hold the brass casing in place while the press applies the necessary force.

Powder measures and scales

Accurately measuring the powder charge is critical for safe and effective reloading. Powder measures and scales are used to measure the correct amount of powder for each round.

Primers

Primers are the small, metal components that ignite the gunpowder when struck by the firing pin. There are several types of primers available, including small rifle, large rifle, small pistol, and large pistol.

Brass cases

Brass cases are the outer shell of the cartridge and can be reused multiple times. Proper cleaning and preparation of the brass is essential for safe and effective reloading.

Bullets

Bullets are the projectile that is fired from the firearm. There are several types of bullets available, including full metal jacket, hollow point, and soft point.

Case cleaning and preparation

Cleaning and preparing the brass cases is an essential step in the reloading process.

Reloading Manuals and Guides

Reloading manuals and guides are essential resources for anyone new to reloading. These books provide step-by-step instructions on how to safely reload ammunition and offer valuable information on load data, bullet selection, and other important factors to consider.

Safety considerations when reloading

Reloading ammunition can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Always wear eye and ear protection when reloading, and follow the instructions carefully to avoid mishaps. Additionally, keep your workspace clean and organized to avoid mistakes.

Common mistakes to avoid when reloading

There are several common mistakes that people make when reloading ammunition, including overcharging or undercharging the powder, failing to properly seat the primer, and not correctly crimping the bullet. Always double-check your work and follow the instructions carefully to avoid these mistakes.

Conclusion

Reloading your own ammunition can be a rewarding and cost-effective hobby, but it is essential to have the right equipment and supplies to get started. In Canada, there are several options for purchasing reloading supplies, and it is important to do your research and choose the right components for your specific firearm. Additionally, always prioritize safety and follow the instructions carefully to avoid mishaps.

FAQs

1. Is reloading ammunition legal in Canada? Yes, it is legal to reload your own ammunition in Canada as long as you have the appropriate licenses and permits.
2. How much money can I save by reloading my own ammunition? The amount of money you can save by reloading your own ammunition depends on the caliber you shoot and how much you shoot. However, many reloaders report significant savings over purchasing factory ammunition.
3. Do I need to buy all of the reloading supplies at once? No, you can purchase reloading supplies as needed and build your setup over time.
4. How long does it take to reload ammunition? The amount of time it takes to reload ammunition depends on the type of press you are using and your experience level. However, most reloaders report that it takes 30-60 minutes to reload a batch of 50 rounds.
5. Can I use reloading supplies from other countries in my Canadian firearm? It is important to ensure that the reloading supplies you use are compatible with your specific firearm. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and do your research before purchasing reloading supplies from other countries.