Understanding Once Fired Brass
What “Once Fired” Means
The .35 Remington cartridge, a timeless favorite among deer hunters and lever-action enthusiasts, continues to resonate with its blend of manageable recoil and impressive stopping power. For those who appreciate the accuracy and economy of handloading, securing high-quality cartridge cases is paramount. One often-overlooked, yet highly beneficial, option is the utilization of **35 Rem brass once fired**. This article will delve into the advantages of sourcing and using this readily available resource, providing you with a comprehensive guide to maximizing its potential.
The Benefits of Using Once-Fired Brass
Choosing to purchase **35 Rem brass once fired** offers a number of distinct advantages for the reloader, both in terms of cost and convenience. These benefits often make it a more appealing option than purchasing brand-new brass.
One of the primary drivers behind choosing once-fired brass is cost savings. New brass can be a significant expense, particularly if you’re a high-volume shooter. Once-fired brass is generally sold at a lower price point, allowing you to stretch your reloading budget further. This price difference allows you to focus on more expensive components such as high-quality bullets.
Another key advantage is the level of quality and consistency. Once-fired brass frequently comes from reputable manufacturers. While there’s no guarantee, reputable sellers usually offer brass from well-known brands that are known for producing quality ammunition. This translates to more consistent dimensions and a better overall reloading experience. Consistent dimensions are crucial for achieving accurate and reliable results.
The convenience factor is another major benefit. Once-fired brass often arrives ready for reloading. While some cleaning may be required, this removes the need to go through the initial preparation steps typically associated with brand-new brass. This includes cleaning, resizing, and deburring, all of which can consume a significant amount of time. With once-fired brass, you’re one step closer to the reloading process.
Sourcing Once-Fired 35 Rem Brass
Online Retailers
Finding a reliable source for **35 Rem brass once fired** is a critical step in taking advantage of this resource. Several avenues exist for acquiring this valuable material.
Online retailers are an excellent starting point. Many online stores specialize in reloading supplies and often carry a wide selection of once-fired brass. Look for reputable sellers with positive customer reviews. Websites like Starline, known for their high-quality brass, often have options, as do other established retailers specializing in ammunition components.
Gun Shows and Local Gun Shops
Gun shows and local gun shops can be another source. These venues provide an opportunity to inspect the brass firsthand before making a purchase. This can be especially useful if you’re new to reloading and want to get a feel for the condition of the brass before committing to a larger order. Remember to check for any signs of corrosion or excessive wear.
Shooting Ranges
Shooting ranges are another potential source, although this is often less accessible. Some ranges may allow you to purchase once-fired brass from their range brass collection, but policies vary widely. Always inquire beforehand and respect the range’s rules.
Private Sellers
Private sellers can also be a source, and this option needs a good deal of caution. Online forums, classified ads, and local gun clubs can connect you with individuals selling once-fired brass. Exercise caution when dealing with private sellers. Thoroughly inspect the brass and verify its condition before making a purchase.
Evaluating Brass for Purchase
Inspection
When acquiring **35 Rem brass once fired**, careful inspection is necessary to ensure the quality and suitability of the cases.
Thoroughly examine each case for signs of damage. Look for any dents, dings, or other imperfections. Minor dents may be easily corrected during the reloading process. However, cases with severe damage should be discarded.
Assess the brass for any signs of corrosion. Surface corrosion can often be removed through cleaning. However, heavy corrosion can weaken the brass and render it unsafe to use. Avoid cases with excessive oxidation.
Carefully check the primer pockets. Primer pockets should be clean and free of any obstructions. Inspect the pocket for any signs of enlargement. If the pocket is too loose, it may not properly hold a new primer, which could lead to misfires.
When evaluating brass, consider the seller. Purchase from reputable sources with good customer reviews. Ask questions about the source of the brass and whether it has been cleaned or inspected. The more information the better.
Preparing Once-Fired 35 Rem Brass for Reloading
Cleaning
Once you’ve acquired your **35 Rem brass once fired**, the next step is to prepare it for reloading. This preparation involves cleaning, inspection, and any necessary resizing.
Cleaning the brass is essential to remove any debris or contaminants that may be present. This is crucial for ensuring proper lubrication, promoting smooth functioning, and enhancing the longevity of your reloading equipment.
Several cleaning methods are available. Tumble cleaning is a popular and effective approach. This involves placing the brass in a tumbler with a cleaning media, such as walnut shells or corn cob. Ultrasonic cleaning offers a more thorough alternative. This process uses ultrasonic waves and a cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime from the brass, including inside the case. A third and more tedious method is hand cleaning; usually the case is scrubbed with a brush and cleaner.
Inspection after Cleaning
After cleaning, perform a visual inspection of each case, looking for any defects or damage that might have been missed. Inspect the case heads. This is especially important to catch any potential weaknesses.
Case Length Check and Trimming
Checking case lengths is an important step to consistency. If cases are too long, they may cause excessive pressure during firing. Using a case trimmer helps to ensure all cases are within the manufacturer’s specifications.
Primer Pocket Preparation
Primer pocket preparation is crucial for ensuring reliable ignition. Uniforming the primer pockets creates a consistent surface for the primer to seat against. This can help to improve the accuracy and consistency of your loads.
Reloading the 35 Rem Brass
Component Selection
With your **35 Rem brass once fired** properly prepared, you can proceed to the actual reloading process. This involves assembling the components to make fresh ammunition.
Begin by selecting the appropriate components for your desired load. Choose the right primer, powder, and bullet weight for your specific needs.
Reloading Steps
Carefully prime the case. This is the first step in the reloading sequence. Properly seated primers are essential for consistent and reliable ignition.
Accurately charge the case with the recommended powder charge. Weigh each powder charge with a quality scale. Overcharging can lead to excessive pressure. Undercharging can lead to inconsistent performance.
Finally, seat the bullet. The bullet should be seated to the proper depth, as specified in your reloading manual. Proper bullet seating is essential for accuracy and safety.
Troubleshooting and Tips
Common Reloading Issues
Even with careful preparation and attention to detail, occasional issues can arise during the reloading process. Understanding these issues and how to address them can save time and prevent frustration.
Hard extraction is a common problem. This can be caused by excessive pressure, over-sized cases, or other issues. Ensure you’re using the correct powder and charge weight.
Case splits can occur, especially with older brass. These can be caused by stress fractures or other weaknesses in the case. Regularly inspect your cases for any signs of damage.
Tips for Brass Life
To maximize the lifespan of your brass, proper storage is essential. Store your loaded ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Utilizing **35 Rem brass once fired** is a smart and economical choice for reloaders. By understanding the advantages of once-fired brass, you can significantly reduce your reloading costs while maintaining the quality and consistency of your ammunition. The process offers a cost-effective, reliable way to enjoy shooting. Reloading provides shooters with greater control and allows for optimized loads. With a commitment to safety and a dedication to precision, handloading can be a rewarding and fulfilling pastime. Remember to consult reliable reloading manuals and follow all safety precautions.
