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Handloader’s Digest, 18th Ed.

 

Review by R.Ted Jeo
 

Adobe PDF Downloadable Version of Article

 

Handloader’s Digest, 18th Ed.
Edited by Ken Ramage
Softcover 8 1/2x11, 256 pages, 300 B&W pictures. 

Price $22.99

Krause Publications

Phone: 888-457-2873

http://www.Krause.com

This book consists of several articles written by acknowledged and published reloading experts. Of particular interest to the mil surp reloader is an article by Don Horne on Handloading for the 30 Mauser C.96, better known as the Mauser Broomhandle.  I would get this book JUST for this article.  Horne goes into some background on shooting the Broomhandle and then proceeds to use KNOWN and AVAILABLE powder and bullet combinations and tests these loads in his C.96 Mauser, complete with accuracy and functionality notes.

There are also several articles that go further into the realms of cartridge prepping than a basic beginning reloading text.  Of particular interest were chapters on the effects of substituting primers types in reloads as well as effects of case trimming.  Additional chapters cover Cowboy action shooting topics (loading the 45 Colt) and several hunting chapters (reloading the 30-30, the “odd” 250 Savages, non steel shot reloading, and big game bullet selection). 

The book also has very readable chapters on the latest in reloading tools and accessories as well as bullet casting technology.  The end of the book is a very comprehensive catalog of all manufacturers of reloading equipment, reference tables on powders, SAAMI case speces, shell holder cross references, and a manufacturers address/phone number data base.

As a companion to the ABC’s of Reloading (previously reviewed), Handloader’s Digest goes one step further into the specifics of reloading metallic and shotgun cartridges.  It has the same technical yet highly readable format as other Krause books and you will find a wealth of information in the book regardless of your reloading skill level or shooting interest.

Company Description

Handloaders are meticulous hobbyists who constantly search for better loads, components, and the tools to assemble cartridges. They expect the best from their components and tools, and this updated digest is an assemblage of authoritative articles discussing various facets of the reloading hobby.

New in-depth articles from expert writers cover casting bullets, working handloads, choosing the right components for the job, new techniques, ballistics, reloading safety, and much more.

Enthusiasts will gain insight into new reloading trends, as well as available equipment and accessories from major manufacturers. Extensive and valuable reference information includes listings of all handloading periodicals and books, plus directories of products and manufacturers.

Compilation of the best in-depth articles covering various facets of the reloading hobby

Articles include casting bullets, working handloads, choosing the right components for the job, new techniques, ballistics, reloading safety, and much more

Lists all handloading periodicals and books, plus directories of products and manufacturers.

Item Number: HD18

Price: $22.95

 

On the Surplusrifle.com scale:

(1 to 5, 5=great)
Mil Surp Content   4 (several parts specific to mil-surp)
Readability  5
Illustrations/diagrams/photos 5
Value  5
Appropriate level  Mid level of reloader
 
 

Adobe PDF Downloadable Version of Article

 
Review by R.Ted Jeo