Once-fired 308 Winchester brass is a popular choice for reloaders, offering a cost-effective alternative to new brass. Understanding its characteristics, sourcing, and proper preparation is crucial for successful reloading. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about once-fired 308 brass, empowering you to make informed decisions and maximize your reloading efficiency.
Sourcing Once-Fired 308 Brass
Finding quality once-fired 308 brass is the first step. Several avenues exist, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Local Shooting Ranges
Many shooting ranges allow collectors to scour their brass after closing. This method often yields a large quantity of mixed brass, requiring sorting. The condition of the brass can vary greatly, ranging from excellent to heavily damaged. Expect to spend time cleaning and inspecting.
Online Retailers
Online retailers specialize in selling once-fired brass, often sorted by manufacturer and condition. This offers convenience and consistency, but it typically costs more than scavenging at a range. Look for reputable sellers with detailed descriptions and customer reviews.
Private Sales
Joining online forums or local reloading groups can connect you with individuals selling their once-fired brass. This can offer competitive prices and a chance to acquire specific brands. Always inspect the brass carefully before purchasing.
Factors to Consider When Sourcing
- Manufacturer: Different manufacturers produce brass with varying characteristics in terms of durability and lifespan. Some popular brands include Federal, Winchester, and Norma.
- Condition: Look for brass that is free from cracks, dents, or excessive expansion. Avoid brass with significant damage, as it may not withstand multiple reloads.
- Price: Compare prices from different sources to ensure you're getting a fair deal. Consider the cost per round versus the quantity and quality.
Preparing Once-Fired 308 Brass for Reloading
Before you can reload once-fired 308 brass, proper preparation is essential. This process ensures consistent performance and extends the life of your brass.
1. Cleaning and Inspection
Thoroughly clean the brass to remove debris, carbon buildup, and primer residue. A vibratory tumbler is highly recommended for this process. Inspect each case carefully for damage. Discard any cases exhibiting cracks, excessive dents, or signs of case head separation.
2. Sizing
Sizing is a critical step to ensure proper chambering and consistent performance. A full-length sizing die resizes the entire case, while a neck sizing die only resizes the neck. The choice depends on your reloading goals and the condition of the brass. Oversized cases may experience problems with headspace.
3. Primer Pocket Cleaning
Use a primer pocket cleaner to remove any residual primer material from the primer pocket. This ensures proper seating of the new primer and prevents misfires.
4. Trimming
Over time, the case necks may become too long, hindering proper bullet seating. Use a case trimmer to maintain consistent case length.
5. Deburring
After trimming, deburr the case mouths to prevent damage to your sizing dies.
Reloading with Once-Fired 308 Brass
Once the brass is prepared, the reloading process is standard. Remember to follow safe reloading practices and consult your reloading manual for specific load data.
Table 1: Comparison of New vs. Once-Fired 308 Brass
| Feature | New Brass | Once-Fired Brass |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Condition | Pristine | Varies, requires preparation |
| Consistency | Higher | Can vary, depends on preparation |
| Lifespan | Potentially more reloads | Fewer reloads, depends on care |
Conclusion: Making the Most of Once-Fired 308 Brass
Utilizing once-fired 308 brass offers significant cost savings without sacrificing accuracy if handled correctly. By following these steps for sourcing, preparing, and reloading, you can ensure safe and reliable performance with your reloaded ammunition. Remember that consistent reloading practices and careful attention to detail are key to success. The initial investment in tools and time will pay off in the long run, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of cost-effective reloading for years to come.