Handloading PART VII, Let's Make Ammo! ~ GunBlue's Complete Guide

Published on March 8, 2016
Duration: 62:29

This comprehensive guide details the process of handloading ammunition for a .300 Savage Model 99. It covers essential steps from case preparation, including inspection, trimming, chamfering, and lubrication, to the actual loading process involving resizing, priming, powder charging, bullet seating, and crimping. The instructor emphasizes meticulous attention to detail, accurate measurements, and proper tool usage to ensure safe and accurate reloaded ammunition. Finally, the importance of labeling finished rounds with all pertinent data is highlighted for safety and future reference.

Quick Summary

Handloading .300 Savage ammunition involves meticulous case preparation, including inspection, trimming, chamfering, and lubrication. Key steps include resizing, priming, accurate powder charging with a calibrated scale, bullet seating to a consistent depth, and a light factory crimp. Always label finished rounds with bullet weight, powder charge, caliber, and date for safety.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Rifle Overview
  2. 00:59Case Preparation: Inspection & Segregation
  3. 04:05Essential Tools for Case Prep
  4. 06:36Case Trimming Process
  5. 09:01Chamfering & Deburring Cases
  6. 10:36Case Lubrication Explained
  7. 14:48Decapping Process
  8. 21:12Full-Length Resizing Technique
  9. 33:02Automated Priming System Setup
  10. 41:09Powder Scale Calibration & Use
  11. 44:43Setting Up the Powder Measure
  12. 51:31Consistent Powder Charging Method
  13. 54:00Bullet Seating Process
  14. 58:26Factory Crimp Die Application
  15. 60:56Cleaning Finished Ammunition
  16. 62:05Importance of Labeling Ammunition

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps in preparing brass for handloading?

Case preparation involves inspecting brass for damage, segregating military brass, cleaning if necessary, trimming to the correct length using calipers and a trimmer, chamfering the case mouth, and deburring the outside edge. Proper lubrication is also crucial to prevent sticking during resizing.

How do you ensure accurate powder charges when handloading?

Accurate powder charging requires a calibrated powder scale or a properly set powder measure. Always double-check your scale's calibration and your measurements. Use a consistent charging method, such as filling each case individually by hand with a powder measure, to ensure uniform powder levels.

What is the correct way to resize bottleneck cases?

For bottleneck cases, full-length resizing is essential. Ensure the resizing die is properly adjusted to headspace on the shell holder. Apply a thin, water-soluble lubricant to the case exterior to prevent sticking. The resizing process typically also decaps the spent primer.

Why is it important to label reloaded ammunition?

Labeling reloaded ammunition is critical for safety and record-keeping. Each box should clearly indicate the bullet weight, powder type and charge, caliber, and the date loaded. This information helps prevent accidental use of incorrect loads and tracks the history of your ammunition.

What are common mistakes to avoid when handloading?

Avoid using old military brass with corrosive primers, over-lubricating cases which can cause dents, and over-chamfering necks. Cleaning primer pockets is unnecessary. Always double-check powder charges and never exceed published maximum loads. Proper labeling of finished rounds is paramount.

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