The world of ammo reloading continues to evolve — shooters are pushing for more precision, better tools, and greener / more cost-effective components. Whether you’re in for high-volume pistol work, long-range rifle accuracy, or hunting in lead-sensitive areas, the trends are clear. Here’s a look at what’s hot..
More Electronics & Automation in Powder Handling
Why it’s hot:
Accuracy and repeatability are only as good as your powder charge. Even small variations matter, especially for precision long-range, competition, or when you’re trying to squeeze max consistency from a gun. Electronically controlled dispensers, auto tricklers, Bluetooth connectivity, even app-based control of scales/dispensers are all becoming more popular.
The RCBS Chargemaster Electronic Powder Dispenser and Scale
Hot Products in this Category:
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RCBS Chargemaster Link Electronic Powder Dispenser & Scale — a Bluetooth-enabled dispenser/scale combo that lets you load via app control.
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Hornady Auto Charge Pro Digital Powder Scale & Dispenser — good for those who want a compact setup with solid digital control.
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Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper 2.0 Electronic Powder Dispenser — a newer automatic/trickle style electronic unit for precise charging.
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RCBS ChargeMaster Supreme Bluetooth Electronic Powder Dispenser & Scale — probably one of the highest end units in the “smart dispenser” category at midsouth right now.
Implication: If you want to reduce time between shots while minimizing error, investing in one of these electronic dispensers pays off. They help especially when lot-to-lot or environmental variation creeps in.
Precision / Long-Range Load Development
Why it’s hot:
Shooters are chasing sub-MOA groups farther than ever. This means not just good gear, but lots of load testing: varying primers, bullets, lots of powder, seating depth, brass preparation, etc. The goal: low ES (Extreme Spread), low SD (Standard Deviation) in your loads.
Items you will need to look for:
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A robust selection of powder measuring tools (including electronic scales / dispensers) for doing fine scale adjustments.
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Lead-free rifle bullets (solid copper, monolithic, non-toxic) for match or hunting situations where lead is restricted. E.g. .224, .284, .308 diameters lead-free rifle bullets.
What to Pair with These: Good quality brass, consistent primers, proper bullet selection, and patience to test multiple loads.
Environmental / Lead-Free Bullets
Why it’s hot:
More ranges (especially indoor and hunting ranges) are imposing restrictions or bans on lead or lead-core bullets. Hunters in many jurisdictions need non-toxic bullets. Plus, there’s growing interest among shooters who want less lead exposure/contamination.
7mm Lead-Free Bullet
Items to Look For:
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Lead-Free Bullets in various diameters: .284, .308, .224, .400 etc.
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Lead-free pistol bullets (.429 diameter etc.) for revolver & handgun shooters.
Upgrading High-Volume & Progressive Press Gear
Why it’s hot:
If you reload a lot (for competition, training, multiple firearms, or just high round count shooting), speed + reliability matter. Progressive presses now come with better indexing, optional extras, and more manufacturers are paying attention to ergonomics, safety, and consistency in volume load.
Component Availability & Economy in Premium Alternatives
Why it’s hot:
After supply chain disruptions, reloaders are paying more attention to cost per round — including looking at plated, swaged, lead-free or non-lead projectiles as alternatives to expensive jacketed bullets. Better powders & primers being more available helps too.
Items to Stock Up On:
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Non-lead bullets, including plated bullets or lead‐free bullets, help in getting bullet cost under control.
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Powder measuring tools and for multiple brands (Frankford Arsenal, Hornady, RCBS, Lee etc.) gives flexible options for cost vs. performance trade-offs.
What to Do If You’re Reloading Now
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If accuracy is your priority: spend on a quality powder dispenser/scale and good bullets (especially lead-free or match grade).
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If speed matters: invest in tools that automate repetitive tasks (powder dosing, case prep).
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If you hunt or shoot in range-restricted areas: build in a lead-free bullet component of your workflow.
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Keep an eye on component lot consistency, environmental variables (temperature, humidity), and test small lots before scaling up.