Reloading .25 ACP

Published on November 22, 2019
Duration: 48:14

This video details the process of reloading .25 ACP ammunition using a Beretta 418 as the test platform. It covers component selection, powder charging with extremely small charges of Alliant Bullseye, bullet seating, and function testing. The instructor highlights the challenges of reloading this diminutive cartridge, including precise powder measurement and potential issues with primer ignition and bullet alignment. The video also includes ballistic gel testing and accuracy assessments.

Quick Summary

Reloading .25 ACP requires meticulous attention to detail, especially with powder charges as low as 1.7 grains of Alliant Bullseye. Federal No. 100 primers are recommended for reliable ignition in firearms with potentially weak firing pin springs, unlike harder CCI primers. Speer Gold Dot 35-grain bullets offer good expansion and penetration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to .25 ACP Reloading
  2. 00:14Beretta 418 Test Platform
  3. 02:00.25 ACP Cartridge Overview
  4. 02:38Reloading Components: Dies, Brass, Bullets, Primers, Powder
  5. 06:04Powder Selection and Charge Weight (1.7 Grains Bullseye)
  6. 08:22Press Setup: Sizing and Expanding Brass
  7. 12:04Priming Cases on the Press
  8. 15:26Weighing Powder Charges Accurately
  9. 20:48Bullet Seating and Overall Length
  10. 25:09Function Testing: Plunk Test and Firing
  11. 27:06Initial Firing Results and Primer Issues
  12. 28:35Reloading Fired Brass
  13. 34:51Range Day: Velocity and Accuracy Testing
  14. 40:47Ballistic Gel Testing
  15. 42:29Reloading Challenges: Crooked Bullets
  16. 43:46Final Analysis and Lessons Learned

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components for reloading .25 ACP ammunition?

For reloading .25 ACP, you'll need a Lee 3-die set, Jade Mon brass, Speer Gold Dot 35-grain bullets, Federal No. 100 primers, and Alliant Bullseye powder. Precision is paramount due to the small charge weights.

What are the challenges when reloading .25 ACP?

Reloading .25 ACP presents challenges like handling tiny components, precise powder measurement (e.g., 1.7 grains), potential for light primer strikes with certain primers, and ensuring proper bullet alignment to avoid crooked seating.

Why are Federal primers recommended for .25 ACP reloading?

Federal No. 100 primers are recommended because they are softer than CCI primers. This is crucial for firearms like the Beretta 418, which may have weak firing pin springs, ensuring reliable ignition.

What are the typical velocity and penetration expectations for reloaded .25 ACP?

Reloaded .25 ACP with Speer Gold Dot 35-grain bullets can achieve velocities around 1000 feet per second. In ballistic gel, these rounds demonstrated approximately 9 inches of penetration and significant expansion.

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