Quick Tip: How To Make Brass for Obsolete Cartridges

Published on May 11, 2020
Duration: 7:58

This guide details advanced techniques for reforming and resizing brass to create ammunition for obsolete or hard-to-find cartridges. It covers conversions for firearms like the 1905 Mannlicher-Steyr and Broomhandle Mauser, utilizing specific die sets and custom fixtures. The process requires meticulous attention to detail and specialized tools, as demonstrated by experienced reloaders from Brownells.

Quick Summary

Advanced reloading techniques allow for the creation of ammunition for obsolete cartridges. This involves reforming brass, such as converting .32-20 to 7.63mm Mannlicher or .30-30 to .32 Special, using specialized dies and tools. Complex conversions like .17 Remington Fireball from .223 brass require multiple steps and precise machining.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Obsolete Cartridges
  2. 00:43Converting .32-20 to 7.63mm Mannlicher
  3. 02:08Sourcing Reloading Dies
  4. 03:01Simple Conversions: .30-30 to .32 Special
  5. 03:40Mauser and Tokarev Conversions
  6. 04:32The .38-45 Clark
  7. 05:26Complex Conversions: .17 Remington Fireball
  8. 06:19Reference Materials and Lubricants

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make 7.63mm Mannlicher ammunition if it's not commercially available?

You can reform .32-20 brass by removing its rim, cutting a new extractor groove, and trimming it to the correct length. This process requires specialized dies, such as the RCBS 7.63mm Mannlicher set, and careful attention to dimensions.

What is the easiest way to create .32 Special cartridges?

The simplest method is to use .30-30 Winchester brass. Since .32 Special is essentially a necked-up .30-30, you can achieve this by running the .30-30 brass through a .32 Special sizing die.

Can I use .223 Remington brass for other historical firearms?

Yes, .223 Remington brass can be cut down and reformed using 7.63mm Mauser dies for pistols like the Broomhandle Mauser or Tokarev. Be prepared for potentially thick necks that may require turning for optimal performance.

What are essential resources for learning cartridge conversions?

Key resources include 'The Handloader's Manual of Cartridge Conversions' by John Donnelly and George Nonte's guides. High-quality sizing lubricants like Imperial Sizing Wax are also crucial for successful brass forming.

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