COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation plans to offer a free basic reloading class to teach people how to load bullets for their firearms.

In a news release the MDC said that because factory ammunition costs have risen, it may be worth the time and effort to learn how to reload your own rifle ammunition.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will have staff on hand to teach two Basic Reloading: Metallic Cartridges classes on the following dates:

• Thursday, Feb. 5 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at MDC Conservation Regional office, 3500 East Gans Rd., Columbia
• Thursday, Feb. 26 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Runge Nature Center, 330 Commerce Dr., Jefferson City

The agency said the class will teach the basics of reloading safety and techniques. Classroom lessons will be mentored by an experienced ammunition reloader. Participants will learn the basics of safety, techniques, equipment and much more.

“Whether your goals include squeezing out additional accuracy or shooting more for less money, this class will give you the foundation needed to start making safe cartridges right away,” said MDC Outdoor Skills Specialist Brian Flowers. “Our Discover Nature programs are designed to help Missourians explore nature and master outdoor skills together.”

This program is open to adults age 18 or over. There is no cost for the program, but pre-registration is required.  All equipment is provided.

To register for either class, or for more information, contact Flowers at[email protected], or 573-815-7901, ext. 3388.

The E. Sydney Stephens Central Regional Office and Conservation Research Center is conveniently located off of US Highway 63 just west of the Discovery Parkway exit on the south side of East Gans Road.

Runge Nature Center is located on Hwy 179 in Jefferson City approximately .5 mile north of Hwy 50. Building hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Thursdays. The building is closed on Sunday and Monday. The outdoor trails are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

For more information about this and other Discover Nature programs, go online to mdc.mo.gov