Zediker explains the basics of reloading at the range

March 5, 2023. The February 2013 issue of Shooting Sports USA magazine contains an interesting feature by Glen Zediker (who sadly died in October 2020). Zediker discusses the benefits of loading at the range for load development and tuning. Glen, who is the author of Handloading for Competition, discusses what gear you should bring and how to develop your load. Glen’s reloading process at the range is focused on throwing powder and seating bullets. He usually brings enough sized-and priced brass with him to the range so he doesn’t have to de-prime, then resize and then re-prime. Zediker writes: “Testing the range gives you the chance to be thorough and flexible. You can also test under more similar conditions to get more accurate results. Once you’re there, you can continue until you get the results that you desire. Don’t wait until the next time. “Zediker begins with three-shot groups. “I usually load and fire three sample [with] a different combination. Based on the results of three rounds, I will increase propellant charge and then try three more. Although three rounds is not a lot, it’s still a test. However, if it looks bad on just a few, it’s not going any better. Glen reminds readers to keep track of their data: “Your notebook is probably the most important piece equipment! No kidding. It’s important to write it down. Write it down. “There’s more to the story… Editor’s note: Zediker’s discussion about loading at the range focuses on throwing powder and seating bullets. Glen says that there is no need to size. Well, maybe. Zediker will likely use fresh brass from previous loads. He doesn’t have to resize or de-prime anything. This is one way to develop loads. However, it may be more efficient for you to de-prime and resize the same cases before loading them. This way, you don’t have to bring 50, 80 or 100 primed-and-sized boxes to the range. You will need a system to de-prime (and reprime) your brass and neck-sizing, or full-length size (depending on what you prefer). An arbor press can handle neck-sizing. If you want to do full-length sizing you will need a press that can handle the case-sizing. This press does not need to be heavy or large. The RCBS Partner Press is a small, but sturdy press that benchresters often use. It can be purchased at Amazon for $114.99. You might be able to get by with the simpler Lee Precision Compact Reloading press, as Zediker demonstrates. Midsouth currently sells this little Lee press, #90045.
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