The thing I'm finding with my reloads is that I can reload what equates to a "Premium" round(think Win PDX-1, or Hornady Critical Defense) for less than the price of WWB..and as already stated,the more you load,the the more the savings shows,and you can find a load that really works well for your particular gun. As far as equipment goes, everybody has their favorite brand,and I'm no different......all I can say is do your research, and buy the best equipment that appeals to you,and that your budget will allow. This is just my and as always YMMV