Finding the right brass is crucial for consistent and accurate reloading, and for the popular 22-250 cartridge, selecting the correct small rifle primer brass is paramount. This guide dives deep into the specifics of 22-250 small primer brass, covering everything from its characteristics and sourcing to proper preparation and care.
Understanding 22-250 Brass: Why Small Primer Matters
The 22-250 Remington is a renowned cartridge for its accuracy and flat trajectory, making it a favorite among varmint hunters and long-range shooters. A key feature defining its construction is the use of small rifle primers. This is crucial for several reasons:
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Improved Ignition: Small rifle primers provide a more consistent and reliable ignition compared to large rifle primers in this cartridge. This translates to more uniform pressure and velocity, which directly impacts accuracy.
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Case Capacity Optimization: The smaller primer pocket size contributes to the overall case capacity, ensuring efficient powder burn and maximizing ballistic performance.
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Reduced Risk of Damage: Using the incorrect primer size can lead to primer bulging, pierced primers, or even catastrophic case failures, potentially causing damage to your firearm.
Sourcing Your 22-250 Small Primer Brass
Several avenues exist for acquiring high-quality 22-250 small primer brass:
1. New Brass from Manufacturers:
Buying factory-new brass ensures consistent quality and dimensional accuracy. Reputable manufacturers offer brass that meets stringent specifications. However, new brass comes at a higher cost per round compared to other options.
2. Once-Fired Brass:
This option offers a significant cost savings. Once-fired brass is usually available from shooting ranges, online retailers, or fellow reloaders. Be mindful to thoroughly inspect any used brass for damage before using it.
3. Bulk Brass:
Purchasing brass in bulk often provides the best value. This is particularly beneficial for high-volume reloaders, though proper storage becomes more critical to prevent corrosion and maintain quality.
Preparing Your 22-250 Brass for Reloading
Before you can begin reloading, your 22-250 small primer brass needs preparation:
1. Cleaning:
Remove any debris or fouling from the case using a suitable brass cleaning method, such as tumbling with media or using a case cleaner.
2. Inspection:
Carefully inspect each case for dents, cracks, or other damage that could compromise its integrity. Discard any damaged cases.
3. Sizing:
Resize the brass using a properly sized die to ensure proper chambering and consistent headspace. Lubricating the cases before sizing is highly recommended to prevent damage to the case and your sizing die.
4. Trimming:
Trim cases to the correct length using a case trimmer. Consistent case length is essential for maintaining accuracy and preventing problems during reloading.
5. Deburring:
Remove any burrs or sharp edges from the case mouth and primer pocket using a deburring tool.
Maintaining Your 22-250 Brass for Longevity
Proper storage and care significantly prolong the lifespan of your 22-250 brass:
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Clean and Dry Storage: Store your brass in a clean, dry location away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
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Proper Container: Use appropriate containers to keep the brass organized and protected from damage.
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Avoid Over-Reloading: Excessive reloading can weaken the brass, leading to failures.
Conclusion
Reloading 22-250 small primer brass can be a rewarding experience, providing both cost savings and increased precision. By carefully selecting your brass, preparing it properly, and storing it correctly, you can ensure the longevity of your brass and the continued accuracy of your ammunition. Remember, safety is paramount; always follow safe reloading practices and consult reloading manuals for specific instructions.
