I see both sides of the kit debate, but only came to that stance after several years of reloading. Since I hadn't done years of research before I began, I didn't yet know what I didn't know. As relatively inexpensive as kits are, any "wasted" items the kit will be few, but the new reloader will be fairly well assured to have just about everything they need to get started.
Yes, get a reloading manual. Or use your library, & get [access to] ALL the reloading manuals. I used our statewide interlibrary loan program, & got manuals from all around the state. I'd also HIGHLY recommend Mule Deer's
The Big Book of Gun Gack, along with his
Rifle Trouble-Shooting and Handloading. Great writing, with even better information. He's distilled the parts that matter most when handloading, saving us from having to waste time & fund$ on stuff that doesn't matter.
Good luck,
FC
