Finding a reliable source for high-quality, once-fired .223/5.56 brass is crucial for reloaders. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the market, understand what to look for, and ultimately save money while ensuring consistent, safe reloading practices.
Why Choose Once-Fired Brass?
Once-fired brass offers significant advantages over new brass or range scrap:
- Cost Savings: Purchasing once-fired brass is considerably cheaper than buying new brass, significantly reducing the overall cost of reloading ammunition.
- Consistent Quality: While range brass can vary wildly in condition, reputable suppliers of once-fired brass typically clean and sort their brass, resulting in more consistent case dimensions and overall quality. This leads to more reliable reloading results.
- Environmental Responsibility: Recycling once-fired brass is an environmentally responsible choice, reducing the demand for newly manufactured brass.
What to Look For When Buying Bulk .223/5.56 Once-Fired Brass:
Several factors determine the quality and value of bulk once-fired brass:
1. Supplier Reputation:
Researching suppliers is paramount. Look for companies with positive reviews and a history of providing high-quality brass. Read reviews from other reloaders to gauge the consistency of the brass they provide. Consider factors like:
- Processing Methods: Does the supplier clean and sort the brass? This greatly influences the final product's quality.
- Return Policy: A good supplier should have a clear and fair return policy in case of issues with the brass.
- Shipping & Handling: How well does the supplier package and ship the brass to prevent damage during transit?
2. Brass Condition:
Examine the brass's condition closely. Look for:
- Minimal Damage: Avoid brass with significant dents, cracks, or excessive case head separation.
- Cleanliness: While some minor residue is acceptable, heavily soiled brass will require more extensive cleaning before reloading.
- Consistent Headstamps: Consistent headstamps indicate brass from the same manufacturer, ensuring more uniform case dimensions.
3. Quantity & Pricing:
Compare prices per case from different suppliers. While bulk purchasing generally saves money, be sure the price per case reflects the quality of the brass. Consider the overall cost including shipping.
Sourcing Your Bulk .223/5.56 Once-Fired Brass:
Several avenues exist for acquiring bulk once-fired .223/5.56 brass:
- Online Retailers: Numerous online retailers specialize in selling reloaded components, including once-fired brass. Carefully vet these retailers before making a purchase.
- Local Gun Shops: Some local gun shops may buy and sell once-fired brass. This option allows for a more hands-on inspection of the brass before purchasing.
- Shooting Ranges: While range brass can be a cost-effective option, be prepared for a significant amount of cleaning and sorting. The condition of range brass can vary greatly.
Preparing Once-Fired Brass for Reloading:
Before reloading, ensure the brass is properly prepared:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the brass to remove any residue or debris.
- Inspection: Carefully inspect each case for damage. Discard any damaged cases.
- Sorting: Sort the brass by headstamp if possible for consistent case dimensions.
- Sizing: Size the cases using the appropriate die to ensure proper fit in your chamber.
- Trimming: Trim the cases to the correct length to maintain consistent overall length.
Conclusion:
Purchasing bulk once-fired .223/5.56 brass can significantly reduce the cost of reloading while maintaining high-quality ammunition. By carefully selecting a reputable supplier and properly preparing the brass before reloading, you can enjoy significant savings and consistent results. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow proper reloading procedures.
