For those of us who have been reloading ammunition for years, the practice offers more than just cost savings—it provides a deeper understanding of ballistics, flexibility, and precision in crafting rounds tailored specifically to our needs. However, while reloading can indeed be economical in the long run, the real costs involved are worth examining, especially in today’s market where prices have significantly inflated compared to a decade ago. Here I have included a cost per round calculator.
Breaking Down the Costs
When I first purchased my reloading equipment over 15 years ago, the financial landscape was quite different. The costs I’ll outline below are based on my purchase prices (these varying over the last few years as I usually buy in bulk), which have since increased, reflecting the broader inflation affecting all shooting supplies.
Let’s break down the costs per component for reloading a single round of ammunition, specifically for deer legal calibers in the UK:
- Bullets: £33.75 per 100 bullets = £0.3375 per bullet
- Brass Cases: £41.85 per 100 brass cases = £0.4185 per case
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Powder: £57 per 454 grams of powder. Each round requires 11.07 grams.
Cost per gram = £0.1255
Cost per round = £1.389 - Primers: £71 per 1000 primers = £0.071 per primer
Combining these, the total cost per round is £2.216. For 100 rounds, that brings the total to £221.60.
Reloading Cost Calculator
Enter the costs of your reloading components to calculate the estimated cost per round.
The Initial Investment
The initial cost of setting up a reloading station is where many hesitate. Back in 2014, I managed to set up my reloading kit for around £550. However, today, that same setup would likely cost closer to £1,000, depending on the quality of the equipment and dies you choose.
This upfront investment is significant, but for those who shoot regularly, it’s an investment that can pay off over time. The savings per round compared to buying factory-loaded ammunition are evident. For instance, factory ammo costs about £354 for 100 rounds, meaning reloading offers a saving of £132.40 per 100 rounds.
The Economics of Reloading Today
Even with the initial investment and the ongoing costs of reloading components, there’s a financial benefit that becomes more apparent the more you shoot. After reloading around 755 rounds, you would have offset the cost of your reloading setup, making each subsequent round even more cost-effective.
But it’s not just about the cost. Reloading gives you the ability to tailor your rounds to your specific needs, providing you with control over the performance of your ammunition—something that off-the-shelf ammo simply cannot offer. For many, this level of customisation is invaluable, especially when dealing with varying quarry and hunting conditions.
Reflecting on Today’s Market
It’s worth noting that the prices I’ve listed are based on what I paid years ago, and like most things, those prices have only gone up. Whether it's the price of brass, bullets, or powder, inflation has made reloading more expensive today than it was when I first started. However, even with these increased costs, reloading remains a viable option for those looking to save in the long run and gain more control over their shooting.
For those considering reloading, it’s important to weigh the initial setup costs against your long-term shooting habits. If you’re an occasional shooter, the savings might not justify the investment. However, if you’re regularly in the field, reloading not only becomes a cost-effective option but also adds another layer to your understanding and enjoyment of the sport.
