Why Clean Brass? The Importance of Brass Cleaning
Accuracy and Consistency
Reloading ammunition is a rewarding hobby that allows shooters to customize their cartridges, save money, and maximize the performance of their firearms. However, successful reloading hinges on meticulous attention to detail, and one of the most critical aspects of this process is brass cleaning for reloading. The condition of your brass casings significantly impacts the accuracy, consistency, and overall safety of your reloads. Clean brass casings contribute directly to improved accuracy. When brass is free of dirt, carbon, and other debris, it allows for more consistent bullet seating. Debris can interfere with the bullet’s alignment, leading to variations in bullet runout and impacting how the bullet flies downrange. Additionally, clean brass ensures a more consistent powder burn, crucial for achieving repeatable velocities and shot placement. This consistency translates to tighter groups on the target and greater confidence in your ammunition.
Preventing Damage to Reloading Equipment
The cleanliness of brass also safeguards your valuable reloading equipment. Dirt and grit can act as abrasives, grinding away at the surfaces of your reloading dies, shell holders, and other tools. This can lead to premature wear, scratches, and ultimately, the need for costly replacements. By removing contaminants before they enter your reloading process, you extend the lifespan of your equipment and protect your investment.
Prolonging the Life of Brass
Extending the life of your brass is another significant benefit of cleaning. Brass casings, being made from an alloy of copper and zinc, are susceptible to corrosion and degradation over time. Residues from burned powder, primers, and the environment can accelerate this process. Cleaning removes these corrosive agents, helping to maintain the integrity of the brass. Properly cleaned and maintained brass casings can withstand multiple reloadings, providing significant long-term cost savings.
Safety Concerns
Safety is, without a doubt, the most critical aspect of the reloading process. Clean brass helps to minimize potential issues during reloading. Dirt in the primer pockets, for instance, can cause inconsistent primer seating, which can result in misfires or hangfires. Similarly, contaminated brass can interfere with the powder metering process, potentially leading to dangerous overcharges or inconsistent powder drops. Adhering to thorough brass cleaning for reloading protocols is a fundamental part of safe reloading.
Methods of Brass Cleaning
Tumbling
Tumbling is one of the most popular and accessible methods for cleaning brass. Tumbling involves placing brass casings in a rotating container filled with cleaning media. There are primarily two types of tumbling: wet and dry.
Wet Tumbling
Wet tumbling, sometimes called rotary tumbling, utilizes a tumbler filled with a cleaning solution, typically water, soap, and stainless steel pins. The brass is submerged in the solution along with the pins, and the rotating action scrubs away dirt, carbon, and primer residue. The stainless steel pins are key to this process; they reach into every crevice, including the primer pockets, and provide effective cleaning. Wet tumbling is known for delivering exceptionally clean brass, both inside and out. It is also highly effective at removing stubborn carbon buildup. Preparing brass for wet tumbling involves removing the spent primers, decapping is a necessity since it requires the pins to reach the primer pocket. The tumbling process usually takes a few hours, and the casings must be rinsed thoroughly and dried completely to prevent corrosion. Wet tumbling is excellent for achieving “like-new” brass.
Dry Tumbling
Dry tumbling, the other main option, uses a tumbler filled with cleaning media such as walnut shells or corncob. These media are often impregnated with a polishing agent or brass cleaner. The brass is tumbled in the dry media, which polishes and removes surface contaminants. Dry tumbling is generally less messy and time-consuming than wet tumbling, but it may not achieve the same level of cleanliness, particularly inside the primer pockets. Dry tumbling is a good choice for cleaning brass, and it can be quick and easy. Brass is loaded into the tumbler, and the tumbler gets to work. It’s important to screen the brass from the media afterward.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning is another effective method. Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create microscopic bubbles that implode on the brass surface, dislodging dirt and contaminants. The brass is submerged in a cleaning solution, and the ultrasonic action provides a deep clean, removing dirt, carbon, and other residues. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally faster than tumbling, but they may require more specialized cleaning solutions. The process typically involves placing the brass in a basket within the cleaner, adding a cleaning solution, and activating the cleaner. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and dry the brass.
Other Methods
Other cleaning methods are also available, though less common. Hand cleaning involves scrubbing individual casings with a brush and cleaning solution, a laborious process best suited for small quantities of brass. Commercial brass cleaners, available in various formulations, can also be used, but they require careful adherence to safety instructions and may not be as effective as other methods.
Choosing the Right Method and Equipment
Factors to Consider
Selecting the right brass cleaning for reloading method involves carefully considering several factors. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution; the best choice depends on your individual reloading needs and preferences.
Budget
Budget plays a critical role. Wet tumbling systems and ultrasonic cleaners often have a higher initial cost than dry tumblers. While some methods are more expensive, they also tend to provide the best cleaning results. Dry tumblers are a more budget-friendly option, perfect for those starting out in reloading. Consider your budget when picking your equipment.
Time commitment
The amount of time you’re willing to dedicate to the cleaning process is another consideration. Wet tumbling and ultrasonic cleaning can be faster options, whereas dry tumbling typically requires more time.
Desired level of cleanliness
The desired level of cleanliness is a significant factor. If you demand pristine, like-new brass, wet tumbling or ultrasonic cleaning are the best choices. If you’re satisfied with good surface cleaning and don’t require perfection, dry tumbling may suffice. The cleaner the brass, the better the performance of your reload.
Quantity of brass to clean
The quantity of brass you typically process will influence your decision. If you reload large quantities of ammunition, a more efficient cleaning method, like a wet tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner, may be a better investment. The best methods are fast and effective.
Considering these factors will guide you towards the best cleaning method for your reloading needs. Starting with a dry tumbler can be a cost-effective way to get started. If you are reloading a lot of brass, wet tumbling or ultrasonic cleaning might be worth the investment for their efficiency and superior cleaning results.
Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Brass using Wet Tumbling
Before you even begin cleaning, it’s important to inspect your brass. Sort your casings by caliber and manufacturer. Inspect each casing for defects, such as cracks, bulges, or excessive wear. Discard any damaged casings; safety is paramount.
Spent primers need to be removed before wet tumbling, in most cases. This step can be done manually with a decapping tool or with a dedicated machine for this purpose.
Prepare your wet tumbling setup by filling the tumbler with the correct amount of water. A typical ratio is to fill the tumbler about half-full, but this might change based on the size of your tumbler. Add your cleaning solution, which often includes water, a brass cleaning detergent, and a little bit of dish soap to lower the surface tension of the water. Follow the instructions provided by the cleaner manufacturer.
Load the tumbler with the brass casings and the stainless steel pins. Do not overload the tumbler. The brass and pins need enough room to move freely to achieve optimal cleaning. Ensure that the casings are completely submerged in the cleaning solution.
Start the tumbler and let it run for a sufficient time. The tumbling time may vary based on the condition of the brass and the specific cleaning solution used. Generally, four to six hours is sufficient. Monitor the process regularly.
After tumbling, the brass and pins need to be rinsed thoroughly. Use a strainer to remove the brass and pins from the tumbler. Rinse the brass with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution and residue.
The final step is drying the brass. The brass must be completely dry before storing it for reloading. Options include using a dedicated brass dryer, spreading the casings out on a towel and allowing them to air dry, or using a low-heat oven. The key is to ensure that all moisture is removed to prevent corrosion.
Carefully inspect the casings after cleaning. Make sure there is no remaining debris or other issues. You can now store the cleaned brass until you’re ready to reload.
Safety Precautions
Safety should always be your top priority during any reloading procedure. Several safety precautions apply to brass cleaning for reloading:
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, gloves, and a dust mask, especially when handling cleaning solutions and working with tumbling media.
Ensure that there is adequate ventilation in your work area, especially when using chemical cleaning solutions.
Store all cleaning materials and equipment in a safe and organized manner, out of reach of children and pets.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning solutions and equipment.
Never mix different cleaning solutions, as this can produce dangerous chemical reactions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, despite following all the steps, issues may arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
If the brass isn’t getting clean enough, try increasing the tumbling time, using a stronger cleaning solution, or adding more stainless steel pins.
If the brass is tarnished or discolored, the cleaning solution may not be adequate, or the brass might have been stored in a humid environment.
Ensure complete drying to prevent this. Tarnish can also sometimes be removed with a specialized brass polishing solution.
Problems with primer pocket cleaning are common, especially with dry tumbling. To resolve this, consider wet tumbling with stainless steel pins, which will reach into the primer pockets and remove the stubborn residue.
Maintenance of Cleaning Equipment
Proper maintenance of your cleaning equipment extends its lifespan and ensures consistent cleaning results.
Regularly clean and maintain your tumbler according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Regularly clean your ultrasonic cleaner.
Maintain the cleaning media you use in your tumbler.
Replace worn-out or contaminated media regularly.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Cleaning brass is an essential step in the reloading process, directly impacting the accuracy, safety, and longevity of your ammunition and equipment. By following the methods and best practices outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your brass casings are clean, consistent, and ready for reloading. From the basic principles of brass cleaning for reloading to the specifics of each method, you now have the knowledge and understanding needed to make informed decisions about your reloading practices. Remember to prioritize safety, follow all instructions, and take the time to do the job correctly. Your dedication to cleanliness and precision will result in higher-quality reloads and greater satisfaction with your shooting experience. By consistently cleaning your brass, you’ll enjoy better accuracy, safer shooting, and a more rewarding reloading hobby.
Now, armed with this knowledge, choose your preferred method, gather your equipment, and experience the difference clean brass makes. Consistent brass cleaning for reloading is a cornerstone of accurate shooting. Make the effort, and your rounds will thank you.
