Loading / reloading your own ammunition isn't just a matter of dumping powder in a case, seating a bullet, and heading off to the range! Brownells Gun Techs Caleb and Steve have some tips on how to develop SAFE loads that will do what you want them to do. The key is a good reloading manual. In fact, if you're starting out, get the manual (or manuals) even before you buy your reloading equipment. The loads in the manual were developed under laboratory conditions to help ensure they don't produce excessive pressures that could blow up your gun and injure you or bystanders. A bonus is that almost all manuals include step-by-step instructions for the entire loading process. Also study the instructions that come with your reloading dies. Dies from different manufacturers may need to be set up differently.
The same load will often function differently in different guns, even the same make and model of gun. Experiment with different loads to see which one works best in YOUR gun. Reloading manuals tend to be conservative so loads will be safe in the least robust gun chambered for that cartridge. A .357 Magnum load has to be safe in a Smith & Wesson J-frame revolver, as well as a hefty Model 27 N-frame. If you can, stick to the brass case, primer, and bullet specified in your manual for your load. Start with loads on the low end of the pressure spectrum. Then work up to higher pressures, but never exceed the maximum load. Also, consider getting a chronograph. It'll be a big help in monitoring the velocities your ammo is developing.

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