Reloading Series: Case Cleaning

Published on October 9, 2024
Duration: 18:14

This guide details three primary methods for cleaning reloading brass: vibratory tumbling with dry media, rotary tumbling with wet media and stainless steel pins, and ultrasonic cleaning. It covers the setup, media types, cleaning solutions, and approximate run times for each method. The guide also addresses post-cleaning separation techniques and the necessity of dealing with crimped primer pockets.

Quick Summary

Reloading brass can be cleaned using vibratory tumblers with dry media, rotary tumblers with wet media and stainless steel pins, or ultrasonic cleaners. Vibratory tumblers are cost-effective and provide a shine, while ultrasonic cleaners offer deep cleaning without shine. Rotary tumblers can do both wet and dry tumbling.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Case Cleaning
  2. 00:39Vibratory Tumbler Method
  3. 01:00Dry Media Explained
  4. 02:25Tumbling Time and Loading
  5. 03:03Decapping Before Tumbling
  6. 04:07Rotary Tumbler (Wet Tumbling)
  7. 04:33Wet Tumbling Solutions
  8. 05:55Using Rotary Tumbler
  9. 07:00Dry vs. Wet Rotary Tumbling
  10. 08:21Ultrasonic Cleaning Method
  11. 09:00Ultrasonic Cleaner Details
  12. 11:14Separating Brass from Media
  13. 11:32Lyman Sifting System
  14. 13:03Frankford Arsenal Separator Bucket
  15. 15:07Dealing with Crimped Primer Pockets
  16. 15:23Primer Pocket Swaging Die
  17. 16:56Conclusion and Next Steps

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main methods for cleaning reloading brass?

The primary methods for cleaning reloading brass include vibratory tumbling with dry media, rotary tumbling with wet media and stainless steel pins, and ultrasonic cleaning. Each method has its own advantages regarding cost, speed, and the finish achieved on the brass.

Can I tumble brass with primers still in it?

Yes, you can tumble brass with primers still in it. However, some reloaders prefer to decap first, especially if using a dedicated decapping die before tumbling to avoid fouling the die. If primers are present, ensure they are intact and not loose.

How long does it take to clean brass with a vibratory tumbler?

Cleaning brass with a vibratory tumbler typically takes between 2 to 3 hours for lightly soiled brass. For heavily tarnished or dirty brass, it may require up to 8 hours or more to achieve the desired cleanliness and shine.

What is the difference between vibratory and ultrasonic brass cleaning?

Vibratory tumblers use dry media to polish brass, often resulting in a shiny finish. Ultrasonic cleaners use a liquid solution and cavitation to clean brass, achieving a high level of cleanliness but typically not a shiny appearance. Many reloaders use ultrasonic for cleaning and then vibratory for polishing.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →