The .35 Remington, a classic cartridge known for its power and accuracy, remains a popular choice for hunters and enthusiasts. While factory ammunition is readily available, many shooters find satisfaction and cost savings in reloading their own .35 Remington cartridges. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, covering everything from selecting components to final inspection. Understanding how to reload .35 Remington ammunition correctly is crucial for both safety and optimal performance.
Choosing Your Components: The Foundation of Success
Selecting the right components is the first critical step in reloading .35 Remington. The quality of your brass, powder, primers, and bullets directly impacts the accuracy and safety of your ammunition.
Brass: The Resilient Heart of the Cartridge
Finding quality .35 Remington brass might require some searching. It's not as widely available as some more modern cartridges. Look for reputable manufacturers like Starline or Norma. Inspect each piece carefully for dents, cracks, or any signs of damage before using it. Proper case preparation, including resizing and trimming, is crucial for consistent performance.
Powder: The Driving Force Behind Your Bullet
Powder selection is critical. Too little powder leads to underpowered rounds, while too much can result in dangerous over-pressure. Consult a reloading manual specifically for the .35 Remington to determine the appropriate powder charge for your chosen bullet weight and components. Always start at the minimum charge listed in the manual and work your way up, carefully noting the results. Popular powders for .35 Remington include IMR-4198, IMR-3031, and H4895, but always defer to your reloading manual.
Important Note: Never mix and match powders. Using the wrong powder or an incorrect charge can lead to dangerous pressure levels and potentially catastrophic firearm damage or injury.
Primers: The Reliable Ignition Source
Primers initiate the combustion process. Use only small rifle primers, specifically designed for .35 Remington. Choose a reputable brand like CCI, Federal, or Winchester. Ensure primers are handled carefully to avoid damage or contamination.
Bullets: The Precise Projectile
Bullet selection impacts accuracy and trajectory. .35 Remington bullets typically range from 150 to 250 grains. The weight and type of bullet you select will influence the amount of powder needed. Consider using jacketed bullets for better accuracy and reduced barrel fouling. Always check your reloading manual for recommended bullet weights and overall cartridge length (OAL).
Reloading Equipment: Assembling Your Arsenal
Reloading .35 Remington ammunition requires specialized equipment.
| Equipment | Function | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Reloading Press | Sizes cases, primes cases, seats bullets | Essential for reloading |
| Case Trimmer | Trims excess case length for consistent performance | Improves accuracy and prevents damage to your firearm |
| Case Sizing Die | Resizes spent cases to ensure proper fit | Crucial for accurate and reliable reloading |
| Powder Measure | Measures and dispenses consistent powder charges | Ensures uniform powder charges |
| Bullet Seating Die | Seats bullets to the correct depth | Essential for accurate ammunition |
| Primer Seating Tool | Seats primers into cases | Ensures proper primer seating |
| Caliper | Measures case length and bullet seating depth | Crucial for consistent ammunition |
| Scale | Weighs powder charges with precision | Essential for safety and accuracy |
The Reloading Process: Step-by-Step
The following steps detail the reloading procedure for .35 Remington.
- Case Preparation: Inspect and clean spent cases. Resize, trim, and deburr cases as needed.
- Priming: Seat primers using your primer seating tool.
- Powder Charging: Carefully measure and add powder to each case using your powder measure. Always double-check your powder charge before seating the bullet.
- Bullet Seating: Seat the bullet to the correct depth using your bullet seating die.
- Overall Length (OAL): Check the overall cartridge length using a caliper. It must match your manual's recommended OAL to avoid over-pressure.
- Inspection: Carefully inspect each round for any abnormalities or defects before loading into your firearm.
Safety First: Always follow safety precautions when reloading ammunition. Wear safety glasses and avoid distractions. Never exceed recommended powder charges.
Case Studies and Troubleshooting
Case Study 1: Inconsistent Accuracy: A shooter experienced inconsistent accuracy with their reloaded .35 Remington ammo. After troubleshooting, it was determined that the case trimming step had been skipped, resulting in varying OAL and inconsistent pressures.
Case Study 2: High Pressure Signs: Another shooter noted excessive fouling and a noticeable increase in recoil. This pointed to an excessive powder charge, indicating a potential danger that was remedied through careful adherence to the reloading manual.
Conclusion: Safe and Enjoyable Reloading
Reloading your own .35 Remington ammunition provides a rewarding experience. By understanding the process, selecting quality components, following safety procedures, and carefully checking your work, you can create accurate, reliable, and cost-effective ammunition for your hunting and shooting needs. Remember that safety is paramount throughout this process. Always consult your reloading manual for specific data and instructions. Never deviate from proven load data.