10 Must-Know Reloading Hacks

I took some time to write down the top 10 things I believe reloaders should know. Let’s get started!

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Must-Know Reloading Hacks

For this demonstration, I set up my bench exactly as it is detailed on the cover of Hodgdon’s 2025 Annual Manual.

Set up for loading 6mm Creedmoor, I have a variety of RCBS gear as well as Berger Bullets, Lapua cases, and Winchester StaBALL 6.5. (For instructions on how to build your own Ultimate Reloader Bench System, read the article in the 2025 Annual Manual!)

Here are my 10 must-know reloading hacks, in no particular order.

1. Loctite Bullet Trick (At-Lands Dimension)

For precision reloading, it’s important to know how far to seat the bullet so it just touches the rifling. Knowing this bullet seating depth provides a reference point for customizing your bullet jump. There are several tools to help you determine this measurement, but using Loctite, as demonstrated on @ImpactShooting, is a simple, cost-effective way.

Liberally coat the inside of a case neck with blue Loctite and put the bullet in just far enough so it won’t fall out. Close the chamber on the bullet, let the gun sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then pull out the completed dummy round. It will essentially glue itself at that lands distance for easy measurement. Be sure to use a once-fired case for this exercise.

2. Blue Tape

Blue tape is a great way to label powder in a hopper, etc.

I actually keep a tape dispenser with different widths of tape on my bench for easy access. It’s important to keep track of what powder you are working with.

This also works for tubes of primers.

3. Use a SAAMI-Spec case gauge.

Some case gauges have relaxed/expanded internal dimensions. Using these can give a false positive on the chamberability of your shell casing.

Always use SAAMI-spec gauges, like the RCBS chamber case length gauge. (This gauge comes in the RCBS Supreme Die Set.)

4. Save a dummy round (labeled) for seater setup.

Having a dummy round expedites seating die setup. Label it with the caliber and bullet for easy reference.

5. Always use a powder check.

Omitting powder and overcharging can be dangerous. Always be sure to visually check your cases before seating a bullet or use a mechanical powder check on a progressive press. The RCBS Lock-Out die is one example of this. It detects a “no powder” or “double charge” condition and stops the press.

6. Use a 3-way trimmer.

If you are trimming rifle brass, always use a 3-way trimmer to trim, chamfer, and debur all at once.

7. Keep it simple.

Though what you can do with reloading is nearly endless, remember to focus on the task at hand. If you are loading hunting ammunition, try not to get too wrapped up in minutia that won’t make a difference. If you are loading for a benchrest competition, you may desire to do things like uniform flash holes. You may wish to perform some extra steps that are reassuring or relaxing, just do not let it consume you.

Keeping it simple includes manipulating only one variable at a time. If you shot some groups and are unhappy with the performance, change one thing and test again. Changing too many things at once eliminates the ability to determine the root issue.

8. Keep your records straight.

Always record your load specifics. You may wish to do this in a physical book or a digital spreadsheet. I also record my chronograph data and group sizes for each rifle and load. Don’t be afraid to save targets as well! Pro tip: write on the target at the range so you don’t lose track of the distance, load, etc.

I keep a manila folder for each project. Rifle build folders include SAAMI-specs, tenon prints, load data, and any other information pertaining to any part of the project.

9. Slow is smooth and smooth is fast.

Be conscious of each step and the process will become more efficient. Avoiding mistakes saves time. You will discover a rhythm that works for you on each press. Take the time to figure out what the press likes, especially progressive presses.

10. Optimize your workspace.

While number 10 on this list, it really should be number one. Only have equipment on your bench that you are using at that time!

My Ultimate Reloader Bench System allows me to properly space my equipment for easy and efficient use. It also makes it simple to swap out equipment. Don’t forget to save space for loading block manipulation.