E53X5

Lately, I'm starting to realize that if I want to shoot as much as I'd like to and stay competitive, I have to start reloading. I've been putting this idea off for a while now, but the more I shoot, the more I think it's time to suck it up and do it. The two obstacles I see on the way are: I don't really have much free time, especially now that we have a baby around the house (and wife talking about another one). But I suppose I could find an hour or two a week to dedicate to reloading (not sure if it's enough though). The second obstacle, and the largest one, is that I'm not sure reloading is something I will enjoy doing, and if I don't enjoy doing something – I won't be good at it, which in turn means I'll be making mistakes; quite frankly, reloading is not the place for mistakes. I see people who enjoy doing it, and they are very good at it and never have problems. Then I see people (usually those new to reloading) that constantly battle inconsistent loads, squibs, ammo inflicted malfunctions, etc. Some loose confidence in their own reloads, throw in the towel and go back to factory ammo, or have someone else to load for them. That totally turns me off from even wanting to try it myself. Not sure if that stage is totally avoidable, or if it's something every new reloader must go through before becoming good and gaining confidence in himself. I'd hate to invest considerable amount of effort and money into equipment just to realize it's not for me few months later. On the other hand, I don't mind spending more money up front to get the best equipment I can, especially if it mean avoiding that awkward stage of squibs, malfunctions, etc. Also, I've been doing some reading on the subject on various boards, and advise reloaders-to-be get usually varies from "get the most basic press out there and use it for a couple of years to get your basics down and learn every step of the process; then upgrade to a progressive press when you know what you're doing" to "get the most press you can afford and save yourself the hassle of upgrading later". Go figure. What did you start with? And knowing what you know now, would you have done it differently if you had to start over? As far as equipment is concerned, I think I'm pretty much set on Dillon just because of all the good things I've heard about them. I have no idea which model yet though… I'm currently shooting 3 calibers - .45, .40 and 9mm. I'm planning on reloading at least two of them - .40 and .45. I may reload 9mm if I feel it's worth my time. I have no plans to reload rifle or shotgun ammo. The more fool-proof press I can get the better. Please feel free to share your thoughts, comments or similar experiences. Any information is valuable at this point and will make my decisions easier. Regards, Alex.

I agree. I would be very interested in trying out USPSA/IPSC, and as a current IDPA shooter, I would most likely start out in SS division since I can use all my CDP equipment and still be competitive. Unfortunately I don't have the luxury of free time and can't afford 4 hours commute to the nearest IPSC match; therefore, IDPA is the only option I have. I think someone tried talking to Backwoods management about building a “tactical” pistol bay – they certainly have enough “real estate” for it. Unfortunately, they weren’t very interested in the idea back then…

The only reason Russians asked for help this time was because they couldn't afford another Kursk disaster to take place. They were offered help back then, but they thought they could handle it. Their image in the eyes of the world was more important than saving those 118 crew members trapped on that sub. Also, the fact that this was a small rescue (ironic, isn't it) mini-submarine (non-military) helped that decision.

W6 is a great holster. I have one for Commander and one for PM9 - both are very well built and offer great support. Mine are made by Lou Alessi with dual talon clips - they make taking it off and putting it on easier; plus you don't have to worry about belt size - one size fits all.

No, they won't, unless you have very "meaty" palms/hands to push the mag all the way in. EGW magwell is a hair short of 6/8" tall, while STI magwell is a hair short of 5/8". That 1/8" is enough to make that much difference. I have skinny palms/hands, and even STI magwell takes some extra effort to get those 126mm mags seated.

About time... The old website was a joke; a 10-year-old could write a better website. The new site looks much more professional.

Customized Dan Wesson Patriot EXP with S&A magwell, Brazos Lightning Rod front and plain black Novak rear, extended Brown mag catch, undercut trigger guard with "Cameo" serrated front strap and MSH, CMC beavertail, etc.

Here - sexy and tactical. So far haven't had any problems with it in ESP.