The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge has exploded in popularity among both hunters and long-range shooters, leading to a high demand for quality brass. Finding a good deal on 6.5 Creedmoor brass can be challenging, but knowing where to look and what to look for will save you money and ensure you're getting the best possible performance from your ammunition. This guide will explore the best places to find 6.5 Creedmoor brass on sale, as well as provide tips on identifying high-quality brass that will withstand repeated reloading.
Where to Find 6.5 Creedmoor Brass on Sale
Several avenues exist for finding discounted 6.5 Creedmoor brass, each with its own pros and cons:
Online Retailers:
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Large Online Retailers: Sites like Amazon, MidwayUSA, and Graf & Sons often have sales and clearance items. Regularly checking these sites can uncover significant savings, especially during off-season periods. Be sure to compare prices and shipping costs before committing to a purchase. Look for deals on bulk quantities to maximize savings.
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Specialized Reloading Suppliers: Companies dedicated to reloading supplies often run promotions and offer bulk discounts on brass. These specialized retailers are a great source of information on brass quality and can be invaluable for advice on choosing the right brass for your needs.
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Auction Sites: Sites like GunBroker and eBay can sometimes yield surprisingly good deals on 6.5 Creedmoor brass, particularly if you're willing to buy in bulk or purchase used brass. However, carefully examine seller ratings and product descriptions to avoid damaged or counterfeit goods.
Local Gun Shops and Clubs:
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Local Gun Shops: Your local gun shop may have occasional sales or clearance items. Building a relationship with the staff can alert you to upcoming sales and help you find exactly what you need.
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Shooting Clubs and Forums: Connecting with local shooting clubs and online forums can reveal opportunities to buy used brass from fellow shooters. This can be a great way to find affordable brass, but always inspect it carefully for damage before purchasing.
Identifying High-Quality 6.5 Creedmoor Brass
The quality of your brass directly impacts the accuracy and longevity of your ammunition. Here's what to look for:
Brand Reputation:
Certain brands have earned a reputation for producing high-quality brass, such as Norma, Lapua, and Hornady. While these brands often come with a higher price tag, their consistency and durability justify the investment for many reloaders.
Visual Inspection:
Before purchasing, carefully inspect the brass for any signs of damage:
- Dents or Cracks: Significant dents or cracks can weaken the brass, making it unsafe to reload.
- Corrosion: Corrosion can affect the structural integrity of the brass and potentially damage your reloading equipment.
- Uniformity: Look for consistent dimensions across all cases in a batch. Inconsistencies can lead to inconsistent performance.
Headstamp:
The headstamp indicates the manufacturer and often provides clues about the brass's quality. Research different headstamps to understand their reputation within the reloading community.
Tips for Saving Money on 6.5 Creedmoor Brass
- Buy in bulk: Bulk purchases usually offer the best price per case.
- Look for sales and clearance items: Take advantage of seasonal sales and clearance events.
- Consider used brass (with caution): Used brass can be a cost-effective option, but inspect it carefully before purchasing.
- Join reloading forums and communities: Connect with other reloaders to share information about sales and deals.
By following these tips and performing diligent research, you can successfully find quality 6.5 Creedmoor brass at a price that works for your budget and reloading needs. Remember, investing in high-quality brass is an investment in the accuracy and safety of your ammunition.
