Tecuhma is pretty much on target for what I would write. So, I will try not to make this lengthy. One of the best pieces of advice I ever read many moons ago was, "Why not start out with what you will eventually end up with?" Forty years ago, I began my adventures in hand-loading. First for shotguns, using a MEC single stage press. Then, I got into center fire rifles, using an RCBS Jr press. Next, on to handguns. I found a single-stage press for handgun calibers was too time consuming. In 1979, I invested in a Dillon Square Deal press for .45's and .38's. It was a wise investment. The Dillon press reloads only handgun rounds. But, it is fast, convenient and virtually fool-proof, provided you pay attention to what you're doing. Again, ask yourself how much ammunition you THINK you will want to produce. If you only plan on shooting a box or two of 50 rounds per week, then hand loading will probably not be a viable option. Factory ammo will serve you better financially. However, if like me now living in an empty nest and idle time is abundant (fully retired), hand loading can be a relaxing hobby. If you might plan to reload handgun calibers beyond the .45 ACP, Dillon offers caliber conversion kits for a nominal cost. Make sure you include in your decision making a good quality scale to measure your powder charges. Unique or W231 propellants are good choices, as they offer good flexibility in "standard" handgun loads. Lastly, not knowing the .45 you own, if it is a Glock, that company advises NOT using plated or cast projectiles. That caveat applies only due to the unique style of rifling their barrels have. Otherwise, any other brand of .45 broadens your horizons considerably relative to your projectiles of choice. Good luck and enjoy!