Johntk:
I started handloading with an RBCS Rock Chucker Reloader Kit. I bought it from Cabelas Online about 2 years ago for $240. Since then RCBS has replaced the Rock Chucker press (RC2 I believe) with the more modern Rock Chucker Supreme. The bottom line is that the price for the kit with the newer model press can be bought for around $289. It has everything that will be needed for quality handloads. However, I know you've got a budget so RCBS makes a kit with the smaller Special-5 press that goes for $209. I'd recommend you look into the Master kit, but if you can't do it then the Special-5 might be the way to go, although you'd have to buy a quality powder measure and trimmer as well as any other tools you may need. It may sound expensive now, but the savings are quite real if you do volume shooting.
From the Speer #13 Handbook:
.30-06 w/ 150 gr. SP bullet.
Handload: $ 0.29
Factory Quality: $.83
Savings: 64%
I started handloading with an RBCS Rock Chucker Reloader Kit. I bought it from Cabelas Online about 2 years ago for $240. Since then RCBS has replaced the Rock Chucker press (RC2 I believe) with the more modern Rock Chucker Supreme. The bottom line is that the price for the kit with the newer model press can be bought for around $289. It has everything that will be needed for quality handloads. However, I know you've got a budget so RCBS makes a kit with the smaller Special-5 press that goes for $209. I'd recommend you look into the Master kit, but if you can't do it then the Special-5 might be the way to go, although you'd have to buy a quality powder measure and trimmer as well as any other tools you may need. It may sound expensive now, but the savings are quite real if you do volume shooting.
From the Speer #13 Handbook:
.30-06 w/ 150 gr. SP bullet.
Handload: $ 0.29
Factory Quality: $.83
Savings: 64%