Rechargement (munitions)

Handloading, or reloading, is the practice of making firearm cartridges by assembling the individual components (case, primer, propellant, and projectile), rather than purchasing mass-assembled, factory-loaded ammunition. (It should not be confused with the reloading of a firearm with cartridges, such as by swapping magazines or using a speedloader.) The term handloading is the more general term, and refers generically to the manual assembly of ammunition. Reloading refers more specifically to handloading using previously fired cases and shells. The terms are often used interchangeably however, as the techniques are largely the same, whether the handloader is using new or recycled components. The differences lie in the initial preparation of cases and shells; new components are generally ready to load, while previously fired components often need additional procedures, such as cleaning, removal of expended primers, or the reshaping and resizing of brass cases. Economy, increased performance and accuracy, commercial ammunition shortages, and hobby interests are all common motives for handloading both cartridges and shotshells. Handloading ammunition waives the user off the labor costs of commercial production lines, reducing the expenditure to only the cost of purchasing components and equipment. Reloading used cartridge cases can save the shooter money, providing not only a greater quantity, but also a higher quality of ammunition within a given budget. Reloading may not however be cost effective for occasional shooters, as it takes time to recoup the cost of needed equipment, but those who shoot more frequently will see cost-savings over time, as the brass cartridge cases and shotgun shell hulls, which are often the most expensive components, can be reused with proper maintenance. Additionally, most handloading components can be acquired at discounted prices when purchased in bulk, so handloaders are often less affected by changes in ammunition availability. The opportunity to customize performance is another common goal for many handloaders.