OAUSA Net – February 18, 2016 –Ammunition Handloading/Reload

[toms]

SECOND HALF OF HANDLOADING NET UPDATE

This week we will complete the handloading net that started a couple of weeks ago. While we will cover some of the basics, the majority of the net will concentrate on specific handloading techniques geared toward the shooter that wants to get the most performance from his firearm. Tom and I know that we are not the only handloaders out there and we would like to get your input. Bring your suggestions and questions on Thursday night.

We will be adding several new posts to this preview, beginning with post number 8.

ORIGINAL NET PREVIEW

This week our net will be on the subject of ammunition handloading/reloading. Handloading is the process of assembling ammunition from the component parts. Handloading generally means all new components while reloading means using previously fired cases.

We plan to cover an overview of these areas – time permitting.
1. Reasons for and benefits of handloading / reloading
3. Handloading Components
2. Equipment and safe conditions for handloading
4. Learning sources - how to get started
5. Safety and common sense

Feel free to post content related to these 5 reloading items!

DISCLAIMER / SAFETY WARNING: Like all of our nets, this net is informational only, and if you intend to engage in any handloading activity, you must educate yourself properly and follow the directions and warnings of any equipment you use as well as the handloading manuals that relate to the particular cartridge you are handloading (reloading.) Handloading requires undivided concentration, an interference free environment, an exceptional focus on safety, the need to employ multiple safety checks on nearly everything you do, careful reading of all instructions and warnings, and a willingness to take the time to thoroughly educate yourself on how to safely handload cartridges.

[DaveK]

The product spotlight this week is on something that every camper and prepper should own - a water purifier. Today, the market is abundant with water purifiers that serve almost every need, but this particular product caught our attention due to its moderate cost, its capabilities, and its compact size. Due to the importance of this topic, we will explore it in greater detain at a later time.

The Saychell Company makes several levels of water purification, but those that serve the outdoorsman are always of particular interest to us. The filter is sold under the "Pump2Pure" name and goes for about $70. Here are the specs for this unit (http://www.seychelle.com/pump-2-pure.html)

Filters 100 gallons
This unit is designed to work with any non-plumbed available water source.
Increases pH balance up to 9.5
Quick disconnect fittings are installed to allow quick adaptation.
The pump can be adapted for use with the SE-2 Dual Tower unit, in the event there is insufficient pressure to move water through the SE-2 unit.
The pump can also be used as shown with the Inline Supreme Filter.
The pump can be used to get water from your water heater.
Water that has passed through the system is potable to drink.
Pump 2 Pure Carrying Case included

Reduces the following contaminants up to:
• 99.9999% of Bacteria, Virus, E-Coli, Cysts
• 99.99% of Chemicals
• 99.99% of Chlorine Taste, and Odor
• 99.99% of Heavy Metals
• 99.99% of Radiologicals
• Up to 90% of Fluoride

[toms]

Components
There are just 4 components to assemble a round of ammunition as shown in this picture. The only component reused when reloading is the brass case.
It is important to follow a recipe exactly that specifies the type and amount of powder and the bullet weight for the caliber being hand loaded / reloaded.

Picture by Mike Coviello

9mm-luger-components-9mm-luger-900Mike Coviello.jpg (13.24 KiB) Viewed 3281 times

Here is another cut away. This time of a rife round. Here you can see that the powder is cut differently which affect burn rate. Also note that bullet depth can change the volume inside the case. So while we only have 4 components there are hundreds if not thousands of variable that must be controlled. This means you need to follow the recipe and be meticulous in every step with build in safety checks.

Picture from Cabela's

SF_050514a_GunSports_S6_05Cabelas.jpg (41.76 KiB) Viewed 3281 times

[toms]

Equipment
At the heart of the reloading process is the reloading press. There are single stage presses and progressive ones. With a single stage you do one step in the process at a time for all the rounds. A progressive press does all the step for each round before going on to the next round. Naturally there are pros and cons to both methods.

The Dillon 550B is a progressive loader. Retail price is 439.95. It will take dies for rife and handguns. Dillon sells more fully automated presses which are of course more expense. This is a great starting press and may be all you will every need. The press in the picture has all extra option on it. In order to keep initial cost down these can be added over time.

This progress press from Dillon is only one option. There are several other quality press manufactures and there are cheaper presses if you are just starting.
In fact a single stage press might be better to start with as you get to know the process.

RL_550_cat_shot.jpg (105.06 KiB) Viewed 3280 times

[DaveK]

There are many reasons to handload your own ammunition, but these days, with all the shortages of ammo, this can be a means to supply yourself with your favorite rounds, costing less than the store-bought stuff. Cost, however, is just one reason to handload. Those seeking to get the most accuracy and potential out of a given round, can produce better ammo by careful handloading. Even those who just "plink" can benefit from handloading, but the benefits are greater for hunters, target shooters, and competitors.

For many, handloading is as much a hobby as it is a way to produce ammo. Whatever your reason, there are a lot of ways to get started. In general, here are the basics that you will need to purchase:

• 1. Reloading Press
  2. reloading Dies
  3. weight scale (to weigh the powder charge)
  4. powder dispenser
  5. loading Manuals
  6. brass cleaning devices (tumblers)
  7. components - bullets, cases, powder, primers
  8. measuring devices
  9. case prep tools
  10. packaging for loaded rounds

Here are some popular products that will serve the beginner as well as the seasoned handloader:

Packaged kits that come with many of the tools needed for handloading (from the RCBS website http://www.rcbs.com/Products/Presses-an ... g-Kit.aspx)

Rock Chucker Supreme Master Relosding Kit.jpg (61.87 KiB) Viewed 3258 times

Brass cleaning devices From the Midway Site https://www.midwayusa.com/product/15844 ... r-110-volt

Lyman Tumbler.jpg (234.75 KiB) Viewed 3258 times

Reloading Manuals

These are absolutely indispensable parts of your handloading tools. Always have a current version and never throw the older ones away. A reloading manual is to a handloader what a recipe book is to a good chef.

Reloading Manuals.JPG (77.52 KiB) Viewed 3258 times

[DaveK]

On of the most important tools you will need for handloading is a good quality dial caliper. Sinclair makes just such a tool, and among its other qualities, it is made in the USA.

This is the product description and image from the Sinclair Wwebsite (http://www.sinclairintl.com/reloading-e ... 30398.aspx):

A precision tool that handles all the required measurements; inside, outside, depth and steps. Stainless steel frame and slide, including the "down-pointing" rack teeth that shed dirt and chips. Dial registers .100" per revolution, the wide graduations give fast, easy reading. Available with a White Face with black marks, Black Face with white marks or Red Face with white marks. Satin finish with deep, recessed, black-filled scale markings. Fast adjusting thumb wheel. Knurled lock for jaw and dial.

Sinclair Dial Caliper.jpg (13.68 KiB) Viewed 3026 times

[lrsrngr]

KK6CTT for internet check-in although I will be out on the net.

Looking forward to the subject!

Rick

Reasonable cost with a good history of service to those involved in the shooting sports.

Midway USA: https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=c ... dway%20usa
Natchez: https://www.natchezss.com/

[DaveK]

Bump

See updated post number one.

[DaveK]

PRIMERS AND SMOKELESS GUN POWDER

Primers

Primers are one of the 4 components of a loaded cartridge. The selection, storage and handling of this component can contribute significantly to the accuracy of your handloaded ammunition as well as to your own safety!!! While the publication below may not cover everything you wanted to know about primers, it comes darn close. It is published by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufactures Institute (SAAMI) is is a must read for anyone who handloads their own ammo.

SAAMI Primer Care Recommendations.pdf

(71.36 KiB) Downloaded 1047 times

Smokeless Gun Powder

Smokeless gun powder is the primary propellant for modern firearms. Black powder is still in use today, but it's use is comparatively small. We will only discuss smokeless gun powder during the net. As with primers, gun powder is one of the 4 components of a loaded cartridge, and the proper selection and use of the right powder can have a significant effect on consistency and accuracy. The publication below is also from SAAMI and contains information on smokeless gun powder that is a must read for anyone that handloads.

SAAMI Smokeless Gun Powder Recommendations.pdf

(65.03 KiB) Downloaded 40 times

[DaveK]

TECHNIQUES TO IMPROVE ACCURACY

There are many ways to bring out the best in your firearm, by handloading, and we will cover some of the more important ones during the net. Time constraints will mostly limit the discussion to rifles (although many of these techniques can apply to handguns) and we will gear it primarily to hunting and target shooting uses. The bench rest guys use a lot of these techniques, and more, but that is a discussion for another net.

If accuracy is your goal, handloading is but one factor in that department. There are many other considerations, such as the rifle action, the barrel, a proper fitting stock, optics, barrel bedding, and more. When all is said and done, all of these things are worthless without the final factor -practice, practice and more practice. All have to be considered to get the most potential from your firearm. The reward when everything falls into place is satisfying!!!

So, getting back to the handloading discussion, I have found Sinclair International handloading products to be of the highest quality. With the exception of #6, below, all of the following products are made by Sinclair International and can be found on the Sinclair website (http://www.sinclairintl.com/). You should know that all of the Sinclair products are made in the USA! We will discuss these tools during the net and the effect that they can have on accuracy. I am numbering them for reference during the net.

1. Sinclair Primer Pocket Uniformer

Consistency requires uniformity in as many respects as possible. The primer pocket is a good starting point. The description and image below are from the Sinclair website (http://www.sinclairintl.com/reloading-e ... 63189.aspx)

The Sinclair 8000 Series Uniformers are precision ground from one solidpiece of tungsten carbide, so there is no need to worry about changing thedepth of cut. These cutters will cut the primer pocket to a uniform depth and also square the bottom of the pocket in relationship to the case head.

Sinclair Primer Pocket Uniformer.jpg (14.37 KiB) Viewed 3040 times

2. Sinclair Case Neck Turning Tool

Irregularities in the thickness of the case neck will result in bullet misalignment with the case body. Uniformity here, as elsewhere will contribute to accuracy. The product description and image are from the Sinclair website (http://www.sinclairintl.com/reloading-e ... 35271.aspx)

Our Premium Neck Turning Tool employs and eccentric mechanism for quick cut depth adjustments which are accurate to .00025 with our carbide mandrels. The audible click cutter adjustment knob is laser engraved and moves the cutter in either direction with a total adjustment range of .004 to .005 inches. The Premium Neck Turning Tool comes with three laser engraved feeler gauges which may be used to quickly set the cutter depth to the approximate range of the cut desired. With the cutter in range using the supplied feeler gauges, the eccentric adjustment knob enables the user to make the final depth adjustment to the exact thickness desired.

Sinclair Case Neck Turning Tool.jpg (20.66 KiB) Viewed 3038 times

3. Sinclair Case Concentricity Gauge

The concentricity of your cartridge can have a significant impact on accuracy. The Sinclair Concentricity Gauge measures run-out, or how well the bullet or case neck is in alignment with the case body. The product description and image are from the Sinclair website (http://www.sinclairintl.com/reloading-e ... 37479.aspx)

The Sinclair Concentricity Gauge is used to measure run=out by rotating the case or loaded round on two sets of bearings that are captured in anodized aluminum blocks. These bearing blocks are adjustable longitudinally to allow for different case lengths or varying lengths of loaded rounds. The handloader can measure sized cases on the neck, and measure loaded rounds on the neck or out on the bullet. The bearing blocks ride in a milled slot in the gauge base plate. This milled slot keeps the blocks in alignment with each other.

This arrangement provides the best support for the cartridge, enabling the user to spin the cartridge smoothly. Large thumb levers on the bearing blocks make adjustments quick and easy. The anodized base plate is extremely stable allowing the user to take accurate readings. The indicator tower is designed to permit vertical and side-to-side adjustment of the dial indicator.

Sinclair Case Concentricity Gauge.jpg (13.23 KiB) Viewed 3038 times

This video gives an excellent visual of how the gauge functions: http://bcove.me/s8w4ltt4

4. Sinclair Flash Hole Deburr Tool

Consistency in every aspect of cartridge construction is important. Mass produced brass, while of high quality, still leaves a great deal of opportunity for improvement by the handloader interested in accuracy. Removal of burrs, produced by the mechanical process of mass production of brass cases, leaves excess metal in the form of burrs that need to be removed. Description and image from the Sinclair website (http://www.sinclairintl.com/reloading-e ... 34127.aspx)

The Lastest version of our Model 1000 flash hole deburring tool features stainless steel construction and chip clearance slots which alleviate the tendency of the tool to collect chips in the end of the cutting shaft. This tool is inserted in the case mouth and uses the web of the case as a safety stop. A couple of turns will remove any burrs and leave a small chamfer on the inside edge of the flash hole. Flash hole deburring is a one-time operation. Since variations of case length do not affect the use of this tool, flash hole deburring is most easily performed on brand new brass without trimming.

Sinclair Flash Hole Deburrerr Tool.jpg (9.28 KiB) Viewed 3042 times

5. Sinclair Case Trimmer

Sinclair teamed up with L.E. Wilson to produce their case trimmer. This is their description and image, both from the Sinclair website (http://www.sinclairintl.com/reloading-e ... 36320.aspx)

The L.E. Wilson Stainless Steel Case Trimmer is the most accurate case trimmer in the world! The unique way the case is held assures your cases are aligned square to the cutter during trimming and that the trimmed length is identical for each case.

The L.E. Wilson trimmer uses case holders that hold the case neck by the body taper and utilizes no pilots during the case trimming operation. The trimmer utilizes a rail system that the case holders, cutter housing, and adjustment stop sits on providing perfect alignment with each other. Trimmer case holders are available separately.

Sinclair Case Trimmer.jpg (14.42 KiB) Viewed 3042 times

6. Hornady Bullet Seating Depth Gauge

One of the simplest handloading techniques that can have the greatest effect on accuracy is changing the seating depth of your bullets. Determining the limits of seating depth requires a tool known as an "Overall Length Gauge." Hornady currently offers an OAL gauge which has worked well for this handloader. Here is what Hordady says about the importance of seating depth (http://www.hornady.com/store/Lock-N-Loa ... ght-1Each/):

One of the best kept secrets in accurate reloading is precise bullet seating depth. Regulating seating depth and the resulting "jump" to the rifling is widely regarded as fundamental to improved accuracy. A few thousandths of an inch change between the bullet and the rifling can make the difference between so-so accuracy and real tack-driver performance. The Lock-N-Load® O.A.L Gauge is universally acclaimed as the most accurate, easy-to-use and reliable method of obtaining that critical relationship.

Here is what it looks like:

OAL Gauge.jpg (86.08 KiB) Viewed 3027 times