Zeke Ernst

Ernst is the competition pistol shooter and reloading manager at the H&H Shooting Sports Complex in Oklahoma City

Q: Has the ammo shortage created more interest in reloading?

A: Oh my gosh, yes. Tenfold. We teach reloading classes and they have been booked for two months in advance. We are just now starting to catch up. There has been a massive influx of new interest in reloading. It’s a natural transition. If I can’t get ammo, can I make ammo? When people find out how easy it is and the cost savings, it’s a natural evolution. Q: What’s the best way to get started? A: Several manufacturers make single stage reloading kits. They are typically around $400. I strongly recommend that a new reloader take an introduction to reloading class. At H&H, it is a three-hour class and the cost is $50. When you leave, you have a lot more confidence and knowledge. Q: How much work is involved? A: Reloading does take time. It just depends on your setup or equipment. If you have the right setup, you can load 500 to 600 pistol rounds an hour. A good setup will cost you between $700 and $900, but you will make that up in a very short amount of time if you shoot a lot.

Q: How long have you been competing in United States Practical Shooting Association action pistol matches?

A: I have been shooting about six years. I shoot predominately to polish my pistol handling skills. It’s really the only place you get to draw from your holster and reload while you are moving. These are timed events. You are running against the timer. It’s a combination of accuracy and speed, and these are dynamic courses of fire.