Handload vs Reload

[DavidD]

Ok, I'm sure I'm splitting hairs here but is there a difference between Handloading and Re-Loading? I ask because I'm at that stage where I'm pretty sure I'll be getting a reloader soon (Dillon 550b) and asking a bunch of questions and something stood out while talking to an old guy the other day. He mentioned he doesn't run his rifle rounds through his re-loader but "Hand Loads" them. Then, from time to time here I see the term Hand Load used. Are the two terms generally interchangeable?

Edited March 13, 2009 by DavidD

[Guest sling]

No. Just two different terms for the same thing.

[Guest Astra900]

I suppose it could be depending on your point of view. Reloads seem to denote bulk or economy. Handload seems to define a slower process of crafting perfection.

Meh, there's no difference, use whichever term you like.

[Guest Mugster]

A reload is repacking a case from something you shot or brass you just pick up at the range. Quality could be questionable even with inspection.

A handload could also be a reload, or it could use all new components for the highest possible quality. Or never fired brass that has been fireformed by you with a low charge to custom fit a particular chamber. Those are not reloads, they are handloads only.

[Guest Grout]

My definition of a handload would be using a new brass case or a Mugster said one that has been fireformed.Anything else is a "reload" because the brass has been used previously.

[I_Like_Pie]

I am sure that someone, somewhere on the internet will find some way to argue, no matter how obscure, that there is some difference between the two. And make everyone feel they should be ashamed for not knowing it.

/Nope....there is no difference. One and the same.

[DavidD]

I can see everyone's points and now believe it depends on the context used. As noted in my example on the original post, the old guy used the term "hand Loading" his rifle brass (already fired-not new) since he wasn't running it through his progressive reloader but was actually hand measuring the powder and running the cartridge through a single stage press. It's still a reload by definition but I guess the hand measuring of powder for a more accurate charge justifies the difference in terminology to him. He's been reloading for 35 years.

[Guest mark_justmark]

This could get as good as a debate on Home-made Cornbread recipes at a Church social!

anyone ever heard Tim Wilson singing "Church League Softball Fistfight"

[Schadenfreude]

ok you asked for it with that cornbread remark

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z-Vkv30LIE&feature=related

[Guest mark_justmark]

it wont open?

ok you asked for it with that cornbread remark

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z-Vkv30LIE&feature=related

[Schadenfreude]

if you cant open it go to youtube search for Cornbread Samurai