Finding high-quality brass is crucial for successful reloading, and 270 Winchester once-fired brass offers a great balance of cost and performance. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about sourcing, preparing, and using once-fired 270 Winchester brass, ensuring you get the most out of your reloading efforts.
Understanding Once-Fired Brass
Unlike new brass, once-fired brass has been through a single firing cycle. This means it's already been formed to the correct dimensions and has a headstamp indicating its caliber. This makes it a cost-effective option compared to buying brand-new brass, especially for high-volume reloaders. However, it's crucial to inspect each casing carefully before using it to ensure it's free from damage. 270 Winchester once-fired brass specifically offers a robust starting point for reloading, given the .270 Winchester's popularity and readily available supply.
Sourcing Your 270 Winchester Once-Fired Brass
Several avenues exist for acquiring quality 270 Winchester once-fired brass.
Online Retailers:
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Large Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay and Gunbroker often have listings for bulk quantities of once-fired brass. Be sure to carefully examine seller ratings and descriptions to ensure quality and avoid damaged cases. Look for sellers who specify the condition of the brass (e.g., "clean," "no cracks," "full length sized").
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Specialized Reloading Suppliers: Many online retailers specialize in reloading components, including brass. These suppliers often offer graded brass, allowing you to choose the quality level that best fits your needs and budget. This allows for better control of the consistency of your brass.
Local Gun Shops and Ranges:
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Local Gun Shops: Many local gun stores buy or take in used brass from customers. This is a convenient option for smaller quantities. Be sure to ask about their cleaning process and overall brass quality, as standards vary significantly.
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Shooting Ranges: Some shooting ranges will allow you to collect brass, provided that it is cleaned and collected responsibly. This is often the cheapest option but demands significant time and effort for cleaning and sorting.
Inspecting and Preparing Your Brass
Before you start reloading, thorough inspection is crucial.
1. Visual Inspection:
- Check for dents and cracks: These can cause pressure issues and potential safety hazards. Discard any cases exhibiting such damage.
- Examine the primer pockets: Ensure they are not excessively dented or damaged. Loose or damaged primer pockets can lead to misfires or incomplete ignition.
- Look for case head separation: This is a serious defect that should never be ignored, and the case should be disposed of immediately.
- Assess the overall condition: Look for any signs of corrosion or excessive wear. While minor imperfections are often acceptable, severe damage should disqualify the case.
2. Cleaning and Processing:
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Cleaning: Remove any debris, powder residue, or lead using a suitable brass cleaning system (vibratory tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner). Many reloaders use a solution of walnut media for this purpose.
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Sizing: Full-length sizing is recommended for once-fired brass to ensure uniformity. This process restores the brass to its original dimensions.
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Trimming: Trim the case length to the proper specification using a case trimmer. This ensures consistent chambering and prevents issues like squib loads.
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Deburring: Remove any sharp edges from the case mouth and primer pocket. This will improve both the safety and the longevity of your brass.
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Primer Pocket Cleaning: Some reloaders use a primer pocket swaging tool to make sure the primer pockets are cleaned and uniform.
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Chamfering: Carefully chamfer the inside and outside of the case mouth. This creates a smooth transition for the bullet, preventing damage to the bullet.
Reloading with Your Prepared 270 Winchester Brass
Once your brass is inspected, cleaned, and prepared, you can proceed with reloading following standard procedures. Pay close attention to the reloading manual's instructions for your specific components and the appropriate loads for your firearm.
- Always follow safety guidelines.
- Proper powder charges are crucial. Incorrect charges can be dangerous.
- Use the right bullet weight. Consult your reloading manual for suggested loads.
- Start with minimum charges. Gradually increase based on your chronograph data and reloading manual recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many times can I reload 270 Winchester brass?
A: The number of times you can reload brass depends on the quality of the brass, how carefully you process it, and the pressure generated by your loads. Generally, you can expect to reload 270 Winchester brass 3-5 times before it becomes too weak or unreliable.
Q: What are the signs that my 270 Winchester brass is worn out?
A: Signs of wear include excessive case stretching, thinning of the case walls near the base, deep scratches, and cracks.
Q: Can I use once-fired brass from different manufacturers?
A: While it is technically possible, it is best to use brass from the same manufacturer for consistency and to avoid potential problems.
Q: How important is cleaning once-fired brass?
A: Cleaning your once-fired brass removes corrosive substances, which helps to extend its lifespan and ensure reliable performance.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively utilize once-fired 270 Winchester brass, saving money and achieving consistent results in your reloading endeavors. Remember, reloading is a precise process; prioritize safety and always refer to your reloading manuals.