Finding high-quality brass is crucial for precision reloading, and once-fired 22-250 brass offers a cost-effective alternative to new brass. This guide explores everything you need to know about sourcing, preparing, and utilizing once-fired 22-250 brass for your reloading endeavors.
Understanding Once-Fired Brass
Once-fired brass refers to cartridge cases that have been discharged only once. This means they've undergone minimal wear and tear compared to brass that's been fired multiple times. This makes them ideal for reloading, offering a balance between cost savings and reliable performance. However, proper preparation is essential to ensure consistent results.
Sourcing Your 22-250 Once-Fired Brass
Several avenues exist for acquiring once-fired 22-250 brass:
1. Local Shooting Ranges:
Many shooting ranges allow you to collect spent brass. This is often a free or low-cost option, but requires sorting and cleaning. Be sure to check with the range management beforehand to confirm their policies.
2. Online Retailers:
Numerous online retailers specialize in selling once-fired brass. This provides a convenient and consistent source, often sorted and cleaned. However, expect to pay more than collecting it yourself. Pay close attention to the seller's reputation and reviews before purchasing.
3. Private Sales:
Connecting with other reloaders through online forums or local shooting clubs can lead to private sales of once-fired brass. This can be a good way to find brass at competitive prices.
Preparing Once-Fired 22-250 Brass for Reloading
Before reloading, your once-fired 22-250 brass needs thorough preparation:
1. Cleaning:
Cleaning removes any residual powder, primer residue, and dirt. This is crucial for consistent ignition and prevents potential damage to your reloading equipment. Various methods exist, ranging from ultrasonic cleaners to manual cleaning with brushes and solvents.
2. Inspection:
Carefully inspect each casing for damage, such as cracks, dents, or excessive expansion. Discard any damaged brass. Paying close attention to the case mouth and neck is particularly important.
3. Sizing:
Sizing ensures uniform dimensions for consistent bullet seating and chambering. Using the appropriate sizing die for your specific reloading press is crucial. Full-length resizing is usually recommended for once-fired brass.
4. Trimming:
Over time, brass cases lengthen with each firing. Trimming to the correct length is essential for consistent cartridge overall length (COAL) and reliable feeding.
5. Deburring:
After sizing and trimming, deburring the case mouth removes sharp edges, preventing damage to your bullets and improving feeding.
Considerations When Using Once-Fired 22-250 Brass
While once-fired brass offers significant advantages, some considerations remain:
- Case Life: Even once-fired brass has a limited lifespan. Repeated firings can lead to case stretching, weakening, and potential failure. Regular inspection is key.
- Consistency: While generally consistent, minor variations in once-fired brass might exist compared to brand-new brass. This emphasizes the importance of careful preparation and consistent reloading practices.
- Source Reliability: The quality of your once-fired brass depends heavily on its source. Choose reputable sources to ensure good quality brass.
Conclusion
Utilizing once-fired 22-250 brass presents a practical and cost-effective approach for reloaders. By following proper sourcing, preparation, and handling techniques, you can ensure consistent results and maximize the lifespan of your brass. Remember, prioritizing safety and meticulous attention to detail are paramount in reloading.
