Unveiling the Value of Once Fired Brass
The allure of the .45 ACP cartridge is undeniable. The substantial stopping power, the classic feel, and the satisfying recoil have made it a favorite among shooters for generations. But the cost of feeding a .45 ACP habit can quickly add up. That’s where the savvy shooter turns to reloading, and a cornerstone of the reloading process is the humble brass casing. While new brass has its appeal, there’s a compelling alternative that offers significant cost savings and environmental benefits: once fired .45 brass. This article will delve deep into the world of once fired .45 brass, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to make the most of this valuable resource.
Before diving into specifics, let’s clarify what we mean by “once fired.” In the realm of reloading, “once fired” refers to brass cartridge casings that have been fired only once and have not been reloaded. This distinguishes it from brass that has been fired multiple times, potentially leading to weakened cases and decreased safety. It’s important to understand the history of the brass you acquire. Knowing where it came from (e.g., a public range, a private collection, military surplus) can offer clues about its potential condition. Brass sourced from a controlled environment is often a safer bet than brass of unknown origin.
The primary advantage of using once fired .45 brass is the considerable cost reduction. New brass can represent a significant expense when stocking up for extended shooting sessions. Purchasing pre-fired brass dramatically lowers your initial investment, allowing you to stretch your reloading budget further. This is especially true for a caliber like .45 ACP, known for its relatively high cost per round. Beyond the financial benefits, reloading with once fired .45 brass is also a sustainable practice. By reusing these casings, you are reducing waste and contributing to a more environmentally conscious approach to shooting. It’s a win-win situation for both your wallet and the planet.
Finding Quality Once Fired .45 Brass: The Hunt Begins
Locating a reliable supply of once fired .45 brass is a crucial step. Fortunately, several avenues are available to shooters. The internet provides a vast marketplace for brass, with numerous online retailers specializing in reloading supplies. These online stores often offer various quantities of brass, from small batches to bulk purchases, catering to different needs and budgets. Compare prices, read customer reviews, and pay attention to the vendor’s reputation before committing to a purchase. A reputable seller will typically provide a guarantee regarding the condition of their brass.
Local gun shops and gun ranges can also be valuable sources. Some ranges sell their spent brass, offering a convenient option for local shooters. However, be sure to factor in the cost of retrieving the brass yourself; depending on the range’s policies, you may need to purchase it, and prices can vary. Gun shows are another great place to find once fired .45 brass. Vendors at these events often offer competitive prices and allow you to inspect the brass in person before buying.
When choosing a source, consider several factors. Price is a primary concern, so compare prices from different vendors. The vendor’s guarantee regarding the condition of the brass is critical. A good vendor will usually offer a guarantee or a return policy if you’re not satisfied with the product. Furthermore, research the reputation of the seller. Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers to get an idea of their reliability and customer service.
Thorough Inspection: The Foundation of Safe Reloading
Before any once fired .45 brass is used in the reloading process, a meticulous inspection is paramount. This is your first line of defense against potential hazards.
The initial step involves a visual examination. Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as dents, dings, or bulges. Brass casings that have been severely damaged during firing should be immediately discarded. Pay close attention to the case mouth, the opening where the bullet sits. Any damage here could impact bullet seating and lead to inconsistent results. Check for signs of corrosion or rust, especially if the brass has been stored improperly. These imperfections can weaken the brass, potentially leading to case failures during firing.
Next, move to an internal assessment. Use a bore light or a bright flashlight to illuminate the inside of the case. Look for cracks or splits, particularly near the case mouth and the base. These are serious defects that render the brass unsafe for reloading. The base of the case, where the primer sits, is another critical area to inspect. Look for any signs of deformation or stress.
Considering measurements is also vital to evaluating the quality of your once fired .45 brass. Utilize a case gauge to check if the case length meets the specifications as indicated in your reloading manual. Measuring the headspace of the brass with the appropriate tools allows you to identify any expansion of the brass that can indicate that the brass may have been over-pressured. These checks are essential for ensuring the safety and performance of your reloads. Any brass casing that fails the inspection should be discarded.
Cleaning and Preparing the Foundation
Cleaning once fired .45 brass is essential for both aesthetic and functional reasons. Clean brass produces cleaner loads and extends the lifespan of your reloading dies.
Several methods exist for cleaning brass, with the most common being tumbling. Vibratory tumblers use vibrating action to agitate the brass within a container filled with cleaning media. Rotary tumblers, on the other hand, spin the brass inside a drum, also with cleaning media. These options are cost-effective and effective for cleaning a large quantity of brass.
Another option is ultrasonic cleaning. This method uses high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles in a cleaning solution. These bubbles dislodge dirt and grime from the brass’s surface and interior. Ultrasonic cleaning offers a deep clean, but is often more expensive.
The cleaning media used in tumbling can vary. Corn cob media and walnut shell media are popular choices for polishing and removing dirt. You can also add brass-cleaning solutions to your media for enhanced results. In all cases, make sure to separate the cases from the media thoroughly after cleaning.
Once cleaned, the brass needs to be prepared for reloading. This process begins with resizing and decapping. Resizing involves passing the brass through a reloading die to bring it back to the original dimensions. This ensures proper bullet fit and chambering. Decapping removes the spent primer from the case.
If the brass is too long it should be trimmed. Then you need to clean primer pockets, using a specialized tool. This removes any carbon buildup, allowing for reliable primer seating. Case mouth chamfering and deburring are performed next. Chamfering removes the sharp edge from the case mouth, making it easier to seat the bullet. Deburring removes any burrs or rough edges from the inside of the case mouth, preventing bullet damage.
Reloading with Once Fired Brass: Putting it All Together
With the brass inspected, cleaned, and prepared, you are now ready to begin the reloading process. This involves several key steps. First, a new primer is seated in the primer pocket. Then, the correct amount of powder is meticulously measured and dispensed into the case. This is followed by the seating of the bullet. This process involves placing the bullet into the case mouth and seating it to the correct depth. Finally, the case is crimped, securing the bullet in place and preventing it from moving during firing.
Safety is always the most important factor when reloading, so follow all safety precautions in your reloading manual. Take it slow and take your time. Always follow the load data provided in your reloading manual, and do not exceed the maximum recommended powder charges. Double-check your measurements and your processes for each batch to ensure consistency and avoid any potential issues.
Unlocking Value: The Advantages of Reloading with Once Fired Brass
The economic benefits of using once fired .45 brass are substantial. You are essentially lowering your initial cost of ammunition. Reloading with these brass casings can lead to significant savings over time, especially if you are a frequent shooter. The initial investment in reloading equipment is quickly offset by the reduced cost per round.
Besides cost reduction, reusing once fired .45 brass contributes to environmental sustainability. It is a way to participate in responsible gun ownership.
Furthermore, reloading with your own brass allows for greater consistency in case quality. Once you have properly inspected, cleaned, and prepared your brass, you can rely on it for consistent performance. This can lead to improved accuracy and more satisfying shooting experiences.
Navigating Potential Pitfalls
It’s crucial to be aware of potential issues when working with once fired .45 brass. One common mistake is overlooking damage during inspection. Always take your time and be thorough during the visual and internal examination. Another potential problem is improper cleaning techniques. Use the right cleaning media and solutions, and avoid over-tumbling, which can damage the brass. Failure to properly prepare the brass can also lead to problems. Neglecting case trimming, primer pocket cleaning, or case mouth chamfering can affect accuracy and bullet seating.
Finally, neglecting to follow safe reloading practices is a dangerous mistake. Always follow the load data in your reloading manual, measure your powder charges accurately, and double-check every step of the process.
Conclusion: A Path to Savings and Sustainability
Using once fired .45 brass is a wise choice for the discerning shooter. It’s an economical, environmentally responsible way to enjoy the .45 ACP cartridge. By taking the time to source quality brass, inspect it carefully, clean it thoroughly, and prepare it properly, you can unlock significant savings and achieve consistent, reliable results.
By embracing the knowledge and techniques outlined in this article, you can confidently step into the world of reloading and experience the many benefits of repurposing once fired .45 brass. Reloading is a rewarding hobby that allows you to customize your ammunition to your specific needs and preferences. Remember to always prioritize safety, follow your reloading manual, and enjoy the process!
Additional Resources
Search for reputable online retailers specializing in reloading supplies.
Research your local gun shops and shooting ranges for brass availability.
Consult reloading manuals for detailed information on specific reloading techniques.
Look for instructional videos.
