6 Best Reloading Books

The best reloading books, ranked by how many expert sources recommend each one, with notes on introductory reading, reference scope, editions, and reader fit.

Our take

Reloading books vary in purpose. Some explain terminology and equipment for readers new to the subject, while others primarily organize a manufacturer's reference material. A general handbook may cover several brands; a company manual gives a narrower view of its own products. Edition and scope matter when comparing books, because a familiar title can remain in print through many revisions.

Lyman Reloading Handbook offers a broad point of reference, while Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading and Nosler Reloading Guide reflect their manufacturers' coverage. Lee Precision Modern Reloading combines the author's equipment perspective with reference material. The Beginner's Guide to Reloading Ammunition is a shorter introductory read rather than a substitute for a current technical manual. The older Sierra Handgun Reloading Manual is distinct from Sierra's combined rifle and handgun publications. Start with an introductory book to understand the vocabulary, then compare current publisher editions for the scope relevant to your interests.

6 books · 8 sources · Last updated October 23, 2026

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How to choose from this list

Skip to the full ranking

If you're new to the terminology: The Beginner's Guide to Reloading Ammunition
If you want a broad handbook: Lyman Reloading Handbook
If you want Hornady's reference material: Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading
If you want Nosler's reference material: Nosler Reloading Guide
If you want to compare equipment perspectives: Lee Precision Modern Reloading

The 6 books, ranked

Ranked by how many expert sources name each book. Ties go to the book more people recommend.

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Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading

by Hornady Manufacturing

For readers studying Hornady's published reference material, this combines an introduction with information centered on the company's products. The manufacturer focus makes its scope clear, though it is less broad across bullet brands than a general handbook.

What it's about

Hornady provides a reference for handloading rifle and handgun cartridges using its bullets. The handbook combines cartridge data with background on ammunition components and reloading practices, serving readers who want to study the company's published information in book form.

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Lyman Reloading Handbook

by Thomas Griffin

For readers wanting a broad reference that draws on several manufacturers, Lyman offers a less brand centered starting point. Its combination of explanatory material and reference sections is useful, though coverage and currency depend on the edition.

What it's about

Lyman's handbook combines illustrated instruction on reloading equipment and processes with cartridge reference data. Material draws on bullets and powders from multiple manufacturers, while feature articles discuss subjects such as case preparation, ballistics, and the history of the handbooks.

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Lee Precision Modern Reloading

by Richard Lee

For readers comparing manufacturers' approaches, Lee combines a substantial reference section with the author's explanation of equipment and methods. That perspective makes it distinctive, though the product emphasis and edition history require more critical reading than a neutral survey.

What it's about

Richard Lee explains ammunition reloading through discussion of equipment, methods, and the reasoning behind his approach. Reference tables accompany the instructional material, giving readers a resource for studying cartridge components and the practical considerations involved in handloading.

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Nosler Reloading Guide

Bullets for Sportsmen

by Nosler

For readers who want Nosler's own reference material, this pairs company specific coverage with contextual commentary. Its focus complements a broader handbook, though the linked older edition cannot represent later products, revisions, or the complete range of other manufacturers.

What it's about

Nosler combines cartridge information with reloading data for its bullets in this reference guide. Introductory material and laboratory commentary accompany the tables, giving sports shooters background on the components and considerations involved in preparing rifle and handgun ammunition.

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The Beginner's Guide to Reloading Ammunition: With Space and Money Saving Tips for Apartment Dwellers and Those on a Budget

by Steven Gregersen2013

For readers wanting a short introduction before comparing large reference manuals, Gregersen emphasizes accessibility, cost, and limited space. The focused format makes initial reading manageable, though it is not a comprehensive or current manufacturer reference.

What it's about

Steven Gregersen introduces the vocabulary, equipment considerations, and practical organization of ammunition reloading, with particular attention to readers working with limited space or budgets. The book provides an overview rather than an extensive manufacturer reference collection.

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Sierra Handgun Reloading Manual

by Sierra Bullets

For readers specifically interested in Sierra's handgun literature, this older volume provides a focused reference distinct from the combined rifle and handgun manuals. Its narrower scope may suit historical study, though it should not be mistaken for current manufacturer information.

What it's about

Sierra's handgun manual brings together cartridge data, bullet information, and discussion of ballistics. Instructional material covers reloading equipment and terminology, while sections on competitive shooting provide context for readers studying handgun ammunition and the demands of different shooting disciplines.