Finding quality 35 Remington brass can be a challenge, but for dedicated reloaders, the rewards are well worth the effort. This caliber, while not as popular as some others, offers a unique shooting experience, particularly for lever-action enthusiasts. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about sourcing, preparing, and utilizing once-fired 35 Remington brass for your reloading endeavors.
Sourcing Once-Fired 35 Remington Brass
Locating once-fired 35 Remington brass requires a bit more legwork than finding more common calibers. Your best bets are:
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Online Forums and Communities: Online forums dedicated to reloading and shooting, such as those focused on lever-action rifles or the 35 Remington specifically, are excellent resources. Members often buy, sell, and trade brass, providing a potential source for once-fired cases. Be sure to check community rules and guidelines before participating.
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Gun Shows: Gun shows offer a chance to find brass from private sellers. You can often negotiate prices and find bulk deals, although quality can vary. Carefully inspect any brass you purchase to ensure it's in good condition.
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Local Gun Clubs and Ranges: Check with your local shooting range or gun club. They may have spent brass available, or members might be willing to sell their once-fired 35 Remington cases.
Inspecting and Preparing Your Brass
Before you even think about reloading, thorough inspection of your once-fired 35 Remington brass is crucial. Look for:
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Significant Dents or Damage: Cases with deep dents or cracks should be discarded. They are unsafe to reload and could lead to catastrophic failure.
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Primer Pocket Condition: Check the primer pockets for excessive expansion or damage. Poorly formed primer pockets can lead to misaligned primers and inconsistent ignition.
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Case Neck Condition: Examine the case necks for any signs of damage, such as splits or excessive thinning. Overly stretched necks can weaken the case.
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Overall Condition: Inspect for any corrosion or other signs of wear. Cleaning brass before reloading is highly recommended.
Cleaning and Preparing Your Brass for Reloading
After inspection, cleaning your brass is essential. This process involves:
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Deburring: Remove any burrs or sharp edges from the case mouth and flash hole using a case trimmer and deburring tool.
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Sizing: Proper sizing is essential for consistent performance. Use a sizing die appropriate for your reloading press and 35 Remington brass. This process ensures the case neck is properly sized for your chosen bullet.
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Cleaning: Clean the brass using a suitable cleaning method. Vibratory tumblers are commonly used for removing dirt and debris. Use appropriate media and lubricants to avoid scratching the brass.
Reloading 35 Remington: Considerations
Reloading 35 Remington ammunition requires careful attention to detail. Consult your reloading manual for precise powder charges and bullet weights. Always prioritize safety and adhere strictly to recommended load data. Improper reloading can lead to dangerous situations.
Conclusion
Securing and preparing once-fired 35 Remington brass might require some effort, but for those committed to reloading this less-common caliber, the rewards are undeniable – cost savings and the satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition. Remember safety is paramount, meticulous inspection is essential, and proper reloading techniques are crucial for success. Happy reloading!
