Finding the right brass for reloading your 45-70 Government cartridge is crucial for consistent performance and safety. This guide dives deep into the various options available, helping you make informed decisions based on your specific needs and budget. We'll cover everything from sourcing reputable brass to understanding the nuances of different manufacturers and case types.
Choosing the Right 45-70 Brass: Key Considerations
Before diving into specific brands, let's outline the key factors to consider when selecting 45-70 brass for your reloading projects:
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New vs. Once-Fired: New brass offers the best starting point, ensuring consistent dimensions and eliminating potential issues from previous firings. However, it's significantly more expensive. Once-fired brass is a cost-effective alternative, but requires careful inspection for damage before use.
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Headstamp Identification: The headstamp on the brass base indicates the manufacturer. Familiarizing yourself with common headstamps will help you quickly identify the origin and quality of your brass.
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Case Condition: Inspect all brass carefully for dents, cracks, or other damage. Even minor imperfections can lead to safety hazards during reloading and firing.
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Primer Pockets: Examine the primer pockets for any signs of swelling or damage, which can hinder proper seating of primers.
Popular Brands and Their Characteristics
Several reputable manufacturers produce high-quality 45-70 brass. Here's a look at some of the most popular options:
Starline Brass
Known for its consistent quality and excellent dimensional accuracy, Starline brass is a favorite among many reloaders. Its reputation for durability makes it a worthwhile investment, though it often comes with a higher price tag. The slightly thicker walls can offer added strength, especially for higher-pressure loads.
Winchester Brass
Winchester is another established name in the reloading world, and their 45-70 brass is generally reliable and readily available. While possibly not as consistent as Starline, Winchester brass provides a good balance between price and performance for many shooters.
Other Manufacturers
Numerous other manufacturers produce 45-70 brass, including some smaller, niche brands. Researching reviews and comparing prices from different sources is essential to find the best option for your reloading needs. Pay close attention to feedback from other reloaders regarding consistency and reliability.
Sourcing Your 45-70 Brass
You can source 45-70 brass from various channels:
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Online Retailers: Many online retailers specialize in reloading supplies, offering a wide selection of brass from different manufacturers.
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Gun Shows: Gun shows often provide opportunities to find both new and once-fired brass at competitive prices. This allows for hands-on inspection before purchase.
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Local Gun Shops: Your local gun shop might stock 45-70 brass, providing a convenient source for your reloading needs.
Preparing Your Brass for Reloading
Regardless of the brand you choose, proper brass preparation is essential for safe and accurate reloading. This includes:
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Cleaning: Thoroughly clean your brass to remove any residual powder or debris.
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Deburring: Deburr the case mouth and flash holes to prevent damage to your dies and ensure smooth operation.
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Sizing: Size the brass to the correct dimensions using a sizing die specific to your caliber.
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Inspection: After each step, inspect the brass for any signs of damage or imperfections.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices for Your Reloading
Selecting the right 45-70 brass is an important part of the reloading process. By carefully considering factors like brand reputation, case condition, and sourcing options, you can ensure that your reloading projects are safe, accurate, and enjoyable. Remember that consistent quality brass is key to achieving optimal performance and longevity of your firearm. Happy reloading!
