Why no reloads?
S&W 64 destroyed by a double charged reload.
We require factory new, or factory reloaded ammunition for all of our classes. This may cause more than a few to be disgruntled; however, we do so for good reason. While no ammunition is always perfect all the time, factory ammunition seems to have an edge when it comes to consistency, and certainly with regard to manufacturer support. Some reloaders are going to take us to task on this issue, but read on.
While most reloaders are very careful, conscientious, and exacting.......some are not. We have seen, firsthand, problems created as a result of unscrupulous, careless, or lazy reloading habits. We have seen hand loads so mildly charged that the shooter routinely carried a hammer and wooden dowel as a means to clear squibs! We have also seen guns wrecked because of an overcharged case or, as a result of using the wrong powder! A catastrophic failure of a firearm is an unpleasant, and possibly fatal, experience. You won't forget it!
Mistakes are easy to make, however, the simple fact is that some have more serious consequences than others. While we are certainly not against reloading, keep in mind that our students usually share the shooting line with other shooters; often spaced only a few feet apart. In the case of a catastrophic malfunction, more than one person may be injured. The primary goal of any Range should be safety. We refuse to compromise safety. Restricting the use of hand loaded ammunition is another step toward ensuring the safety of our students, and staff.
While most reloaders are very careful, conscientious, and exacting.......some are not. We have seen, firsthand, problems created as a result of unscrupulous, careless, or lazy reloading habits. We have seen hand loads so mildly charged that the shooter routinely carried a hammer and wooden dowel as a means to clear squibs! We have also seen guns wrecked because of an overcharged case or, as a result of using the wrong powder! A catastrophic failure of a firearm is an unpleasant, and possibly fatal, experience. You won't forget it!
Mistakes are easy to make, however, the simple fact is that some have more serious consequences than others. While we are certainly not against reloading, keep in mind that our students usually share the shooting line with other shooters; often spaced only a few feet apart. In the case of a catastrophic malfunction, more than one person may be injured. The primary goal of any Range should be safety. We refuse to compromise safety. Restricting the use of hand loaded ammunition is another step toward ensuring the safety of our students, and staff.