Reloading your own 35 Remington ammunition can be a rewarding experience, offering cost savings and the ability to tailor loads to your specific firearm and hunting needs. However, it's crucial to approach this process with meticulous attention to safety and accuracy. This guide provides comprehensive information on 35 Remington reloading data, emphasizing safety precautions and best practices. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual and other reputable reloading manuals before beginning. This information should be considered supplemental, not a replacement for established reloading guides.
Understanding 35 Remington Cartridge Characteristics
The .35 Remington, introduced in 1906, is a powerful lever-action cartridge known for its effectiveness in hunting medium-sized game. Its relatively large case capacity and moderate pressure levels make it suitable for a wide range of bullet weights and powder charges. However, understanding its characteristics is vital for safe reloading:
- Case Capacity: The .35 Remington case has a significant capacity, influencing the amount of powder you can safely use. Overloading can lead to dangerous pressure spikes.
- Bullet Weight: Common bullet weights range from 150 grains to 220 grains. Heavier bullets generally require more powder, but careful attention to loading data is essential.
- Pressure Levels: Staying within the recommended pressure limits is paramount for safety and consistent accuracy. Excessive pressure can damage your firearm and cause injury.
Essential Reloading Equipment and Supplies
Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary equipment and supplies:
- Reloading Press: A single-stage press offers precise control, while progressive presses enhance speed for higher volume reloading.
- Dies: A full set of dies (sizing, expanding, powder measure, bullet seating) specific to the .35 Remington cartridge.
- Powder Measure: A precise powder measure is critical for consistent and safe powder charges. Consider a scale to double-check your powder measure's accuracy.
- Scale: A digital powder scale is crucial for verifying powder charges, ensuring accurate and safe loads.
- Case Trimmer: Trimming cases to uniform length is essential for consistent performance and safety.
- Bullet Puller: In case of mistakes, a bullet puller is invaluable for safely removing bullets from loaded cartridges.
- Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection: Always wear appropriate safety gear when reloading.
- Case Lubricant: Lubricating cases before sizing prevents damage to the brass and the die.
- Priming Tool: A reliable priming tool for safely seating primers.
- Bullets: Select bullets appropriate for your hunting needs and consistent with your chosen reloading data.
- Gunpowder: Choose a powder suitable for the .35 Remington cartridge. Never mix powders.
35 Remington Reloading Data: A Cautionary Note
The information below is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered definitive reloading data. Always consult multiple, reputable reloading manuals for data specific to your components and firearm. This data may vary depending on the manufacturer of your components, the type of bullet used, and other factors. Using data inconsistent with your specific components can result in unsafe pressure levels.
(Example Data - DO NOT USE THIS DATA WITHOUT CONSULTING RELIABLE SOURCES):
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Powder (Type & Grains) | Primer | COL (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180 | IMR 4198 (45.0) | Winchester Large Rifle | 2.560 | This is example data only. Do not use. |
| 200 | IMR 3031 (42.0) | Federal Large Rifle | 2.575 | This is example data only. Do not use. |
COL stands for Cartridge Overall Length. This measurement is critical for proper chambering and safe operation of your firearm. Incorrect COL can lead to dangerous pressure conditions.
Safety Precautions: The Paramount Concern
- Always consult multiple, reputable reloading manuals before loading any ammunition.
- Never exceed the maximum recommended pressure listed in your reloading data.
- Double-check all components before loading each cartridge.
- Visually inspect each loaded round before chambering.
- Store ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets.
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when reloading.
- Never load ammunition under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Maintain your reloading equipment in good working order.
Conclusion: Responsible Reloading
Reloading your own 35 Remington ammunition can be a rewarding hobby, but it requires diligence, precision, and a deep understanding of safety procedures. By following these guidelines and consulting authoritative reloading manuals, you can safely and effectively produce high-quality ammunition tailored to your needs. Remember, safety is paramount; always prioritize careful work and thorough checks throughout the reloading process. This guide serves as an introduction; comprehensive training and practice are necessary before beginning.
