Reloading your own ammunition can be a rewarding and cost-effective hobby, but achieving consistent results requires meticulous attention to detail. One common challenge faced by reloaders is inconsistency when resizing brass. This article delves into the reasons behind inconsistent resizing and offers practical solutions to improve your process and achieve more uniform cartridges.
Understanding the Sources of Inconsistency
Inconsistent resizing of brass can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Poorly fitting rounds in the chamber: This can result in malfunctions like failure to feed, chamber, or extract.
- Inaccurate shot placement: Variations in case dimensions can affect bullet seating depth and overall cartridge length, impacting bullet trajectory.
- Damage to brass: Excessive resizing can weaken or crack the brass, rendering it unusable.
Several factors contribute to inconsistent brass resizing:
1. Improper Case Preparation:
- Contamination: Dirt, powder residue, or lubricants can interfere with the resizing process, leading to uneven pressure distribution. Thorough cleaning and lubrication are crucial.
- Neck Tension: Inconsistency in neck tension can affect bullet seating and overall cartridge dimensions.
2. Faulty or Worn-Out Equipment:
- Sizing Die: A damaged or improperly adjusted sizing die is a major source of inconsistency. Check for burrs, dents, or misalignments. Regular lubrication of the die is essential.
- Case Neck Sizing Issues: Ensure your neck sizing is consistent, whether using full-length resizing or neck-sizing dies.
- Press Issues: A poorly maintained reloading press or lack of consistent pressure application during the resizing process contributes to uneven results.
3. Inadequate Lubrication:
- Insufficient Lubrication: Insufficient lubrication creates friction and uneven resizing. Proper lubrication minimizes sticking and ensures even pressure distribution.
- Uneven Lubrication: Applying lubricant unevenly can lead to uneven resizing. Use a consistent application method.
4. Brass Variations:
- Different Brass Manufacturers: Brass from different manufacturers can vary slightly in its composition and hardness, leading to inconsistent resizing results.
- Fired Case Variations: The extent of expansion during firing can also vary from case to case, influencing the resizing process.
Strategies for Achieving Consistent Resizing
To overcome inconsistency in resizing brass, implement these strategies:
1. Prepping Brass for Resizing:
- Thorough Cleaning: Remove all powder residue, primer pockets, and debris.
- Consistent Lubrication: Use a quality case lubricant, applying it evenly to the entire case body. Pay particular attention to the neck and shoulder areas. Consider using a lubricant specifically designed for resizing.
- Deburring: Remove any burrs or imperfections from the case mouth.
2. Optimizing Your Reloading Equipment:
- Inspect Sizing Die: Regularly inspect your sizing die for damage or wear. Replace it if necessary.
- Proper Die Adjustment: Adjust the sizing die correctly, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Small adjustments can significantly affect the consistency of the resized cases.
- Maintain Your Press: Ensure your reloading press is clean, well-lubricated and functioning correctly.
3. Consistent Technique:
- Consistent Pressure: Apply consistent pressure during the resizing process. Avoid excessive force, which can damage the brass.
- Proper Case Handling: Handle cases gently to prevent bending or damage.
4. Case Trimming:
- Trim Cases to the Same Length: Consistent case length minimizes variability during resizing and helps with uniform bullet seating depth.
Conclusion: The Key to Consistency is Attention to Detail
Achieving consistently resized brass requires meticulous attention to detail throughout the reloading process. By following these strategies and regularly maintaining your equipment, you can minimize inconsistencies and produce reliable, high-quality ammunition for your shooting needs. Remember, consistency is key to safe and accurate shooting, so invest the time and effort required to perfect your brass resizing techniques.
