Should You Size New Primed Brass? | Guns & Gear Bonus Tip

Published on May 4, 2024
Duration: 5:39

This guide details the necessity of sizing new primed brass, even if it appears undamaged. Kent Sakamoto of Hodgdon Powders explains that bulk packaging can cause neck distortions, impacting accuracy. The process involves adjusting sizing dies correctly, lubricating cases, and resizing to true up the neck, ensuring consistent performance and proper chamber fit. It's recommended to size all new primed brass to achieve optimal reloading results.

Quick Summary

It is crucial to size new primed brass because bulk packaging can cause neck distortions, affecting accuracy. Proper sizing ensures the case neck is round, leading to consistent bullet seating and improved reloading performance. Always adjust your sizing die correctly and ensure the expander rod doesn't dislodge live primers.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Should You Size New Primed Brass?
  2. 00:13Expert Advice from Kent Sakamoto (Hodgdon)
  3. 00:21Identifying Distorted Brass Necks
  4. 00:30Why New Brass Needs Sizing
  5. 00:55The Importance of Neck Sizing
  6. 01:09Resizing Primed Brass Safely
  7. 01:20Before and After Resizing Demo
  8. 01:44Lubrication and Resizing Process
  9. 01:59Result: Round and True Necks
  10. 02:16Sizing All Brass vs. Spot Checking
  11. 02:39Setting Up Your Sizing Die
  12. 03:03Common Reloading Mistakes
  13. 03:10Types of Sizing Dies
  14. 03:38Correct Sizing Die Adjustment
  15. 04:02Consequences of Improper Die Setup
  16. 04:33Testing Sizing Accuracy with Your Firearm
  17. 05:10Final Recommendation: Size All New Primed Brass

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should new primed brass be sized before reloading?

New primed brass often has distorted necks due to bulk packaging and handling, which can negatively impact bullet seating consistency and overall accuracy. Sizing ensures the neck is perfectly round, leading to better reloading results.

How do you properly adjust a sizing die for reloading?

To adjust a sizing die, screw it down until it contacts the shell holder with the press ram fully up. Then, back it off slightly and screw it down again by 1/8 to 1/4 turn. This ensures the case fully enters the die for proper sizing.

Can you resize brass that already has a primer installed?

Yes, you can resize primed brass, but it requires a specific setup. The expander/decapping rod on the resizing die must be raised sufficiently so that it does not dislodge the live primer during the resizing process.

How can you verify if your brass has been sized correctly for your firearm?

After sizing, place the resized case into your firearm's chamber. If the bolt closes easily and the case extracts smoothly, it has been sized correctly for that specific chamber. Difficulty closing the bolt indicates improper sizing.

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