GGALLIN

Many, many times I've started the "Today is the day I'm going to get a press" routine, only to get mired down in the sheer amount of options along with a general lack of knowledge on the subject. When inquiring with retailers auctioning "complete kits" about what their product(s) are capable of/what else is needed, I don't get a response that inspires confidence, rather something akin to "Yup, it loads things." Forklifts load things too, but I'd rather the right tool for the job. What set-up would you recommend for a low-fixed income guy looking to reload anything from 9x19 up to 7x57? With that caveat, I guess it goes without saying that I'm looking to get one press rather than two or more if that's possible, brand name isn't of concern, only that it will do the job correctly. If there's a type which can later be streamlined by adding a powder hopper that dispenses a set amount of powder into each shell rather than manually weighing every time, even better. As with all things that necessitate a high level of attention to detail/safety, I prefer learning in person from someone I trust however that's not currently a possibility (same with hunting) as locals with the knowledge aren't keen on sharing for whatever reason....therefore alot of the process may end up being one of a careful self-familiarization & plenty of trial & error. With the latter, I've tried picking the brains of some instructors before signing up for a class only to find out either their approach is just to churn out as many "graduates" as possible with only a vague understanding or it's someone I wouldn't trust holding onto a five dollar bill let alone teaching a topic requiring a trustworthy individual.

Does adding a custom firing pin spring (self made or otherwise) to an sks sound like a solid option to prevent slamfires with "soft" primers? Especially if you have one of the more rare birds & rather not have the bolt machined. After watching a bunch of videos on youtube, the thought has been rattling around in my head. Figure out the spring rate needed to keep the pin from protruding when it rides home but not heavy enough to interfere with normal operation.

That's a good one, pretty sure he also has a section or full site dedicated to older "off brand" M1 Carbines such as Mocos & Plainfields.

Hey all, Just joined, moving to TN soon & figured this would be a good place to get an idea as to what area would suit an old cranky 2nd Amendment aficionado/gearhead, maybe make some pals along the way. Cheers, GG