Reloading 7.62x39 — cost per round breakdown
Just did the math on my 7.62x39 loads: - Brass: $0.05/case - Primer: $0.04 - Powder: $0.05 - Bullet: $0.20
Total: roughly $0.20/rd. Factory is $14.99/box.
Takes a while to recoup the press cost
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This is exactly why I joined this forum. Good discussion.
I had the opposite experience honestly. But everyone's different I guess.
This is exactly why I joined this forum. Good discussion.
Been thinking about getting into reloading but the startup costs are scary. How long did it take you to break even on your setup? Also where do you source your bullets? Seems like that's the most expensive component in your breakdown.
Good numbers but don't forget your time... I figure my labor at about $10/hr so add another $0.05/rd if you're being honest about costs. Still way cheaper than factory and you know exactly what's in your loads. Plus there's something satisfying about shooting your own ammo. Independence is everything.
Your math looks about right but you're using once-fired brass... factor in multiple loadings and it gets even better. I'm getting 8-10 reloads out of good 7.62x39 brass before primer pockets loosen up. At that point you're looking at maybe $0.15/rd all in. The real savings come after you've loaded a few thousand rounds.
Nice breakdown! I only reload 9mm but the economics are similar. Takes forever to pay off the press but once you do it's all gravy. Plus you can tune your loads exactly how you want them... my G19 loves a specific 124gr load that just isn't available factory.