I just bought the Lee 2nd edition book and have found it to be very good and a very good value at like $12. There is a lot explained in there in nearly every aspect of reloading.
Many people think that he (Richard Lee) wrote the book to promote and showcase his own products, but it is a great collection of good information on the products and the thought that went into developing them. Also it puts to rest a lot of unnecessary badmouthing of some Lee products with some good thought and some good points. Then you can use your own judgement when purchasing equipment knowing you are well informed on the Lee stuff by the manufacturer. I only say this because early on, I found myself not wanting to admit that I was buying some Lee products because there were so many people that would bad mouth them. What I found was that none of the Lee products ever let me down when used properly, and some of the product are IMHO the best in the industry for function and value (Hand Primer comes to mind). My new Lee Loadmaster should be delivered today, so I should have more opinions shortly on that.
I would start with this book, and maybe one of the starter kits from Lee, RCBS, or Hornady. Really they all make good stuff, it just depends on what your budget is. Don't let anyone tell you that the Lee stuff is junk, because if they say that IMHO they are basing there opinion on price or a failure due to not carefully reading directions while using a Lee product.
Most importantly, never be in a hurry, be safe and have fun!
JSF
