Finding the right brass is crucial for successful reloading, and the 6mm Remington is no exception. This comprehensive guide dives deep into everything you need to know about sourcing, preparing, and using 6mm Remington brass for reloading, ensuring you get the most out of your ammunition. We'll cover topics from identifying quality brass to troubleshooting common issues.
Sourcing Quality 6mm Remington Brass
The quality of your starting brass significantly impacts the accuracy and longevity of your reloaded ammunition. Several sources offer 6mm Remington brass, each with its own pros and cons:
New Brass
- Pros: Consistent dimensions, no prior firing, readily available from numerous online retailers and sporting goods stores.
- Cons: More expensive than once-fired brass.
Once-Fired Brass
- Pros: More affordable than new brass, readily available from shooting ranges, online forums, and reloading communities.
- Cons: Requires careful inspection for damage and inconsistencies. May require more processing before reloading.
Mixed Brass
- Pros: Cheapest option, often found in bulk.
- Cons: Requires significant sorting and inspection; potential for inconsistencies in headstamp, case capacity, and overall condition. May not be suitable for precision reloading.
Tip: When buying used brass, carefully examine each piece for signs of damage, including cracks, dents, or excessive corrosion. Reject any brass showing these flaws.
Preparing 6mm Remington Brass for Reloading
Before you can reload your 6mm Remington brass, it needs proper preparation. This process, critical for consistent results, typically involves several steps:
1. Cleaning
Thoroughly clean your brass to remove any dirt, debris, or residue from previous firings. This can be done using a variety of methods:
- Ultrasonic cleaners: Efficient for large batches of brass.
- Tumbling media: Effective for removing most debris, available in various materials (corncob, walnut, etc.).
- Manual cleaning: More labor-intensive but allows for closer inspection.
Important Note: Avoid abrasive cleaning methods that can damage the brass.
2. Inspection
Carefully inspect each case for defects, such as:
- Cases with cracks: Immediately discard any cracked cases. These are unsafe to reload.
- Denial: Dented cases can lead to inconsistent pressures and potential safety issues.
- Corrosion: Severe corrosion weakens the brass and should be avoided.
3. Sizing
Sizing ensures consistent case dimensions for reliable feeding and proper chambering. Use a sizing die appropriate for 6mm Remington brass. This process may also require lubrication to prevent damage to the brass.
4. Trimming
Trimming ensures consistent case length. Excessively long cases can lead to overpressure and dangerous situations. Use a case trimmer and appropriate trimming die to achieve the recommended case length.
5. Deburring
Remove any sharp edges or burrs created during sizing or trimming to prevent damage to your reloading equipment or injuries to yourself.
Reloading 6mm Remington Brass: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once your brass is prepared, the reloading process is relatively straightforward:
- Sizing: Size the cleaned and inspected brass.
- Priming: Insert a small rifle primer (check your reloading manual for specifics).
- Powder Charging: Carefully measure and dispense the correct amount of powder. Use a scale for precise powder charges. Always follow your reloading manual's recommended powder charges.
- Bullet Seating: Seat the bullet to the desired depth.
- Crimping: Crimp the bullet to securely hold it in place.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with 6mm Remington Brass
Despite careful preparation, you might encounter issues during reloading:
- Case splitting: This usually indicates overpressure or the use of damaged brass.
- Difficult extraction: This might indicate improper sizing or bullet seating.
- Inconsistent accuracy: This could be due to inconsistent case dimensions, powder charges, or bullet seating depth.
Addressing these issues requires meticulous attention to detail and careful adherence to reloading safety procedures. Always consult your reloading manual for specific guidelines and troubleshooting information.
Conclusion: Mastering 6mm Remington Brass Reloading
Reloading 6mm Remington brass can be a rewarding experience, offering cost savings and the ability to tailor ammunition to your specific needs. By carefully selecting your brass, preparing it correctly, and following safe reloading practices, you can ensure accurate and safe performance from your reloaded ammunition. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when reloading ammunition. Always consult your reloading manuals and adhere to all safety precautions.