Finding high-quality, affordable brass is a constant quest for handgun reloaders, especially those who enjoy shooting the popular .45 ACP cartridge. Once-fired brass offers a significant advantage over new brass, providing a cost-effective way to keep your reloading bench stocked. This article explores the benefits of using 45 ACP once-fired brass and offers tips for sourcing and preparing it for reloading.
Why Choose Once-Fired 45 ACP Brass?
The appeal of once-fired .45 ACP brass is undeniable for several reasons:
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Cost Savings: The most significant benefit is the price. Once-fired brass is considerably cheaper than purchasing new brass, allowing you to stretch your reloading budget further. This is especially true for high-volume shooters.
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Consistent Quality: While not brand-new, once-fired brass generally exhibits excellent quality. It's already been through the firing process, so you know it's capable of handling the pressure. You'll still need to inspect each casing, but you'll find far fewer defects than with range pickup brass.
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Environmental Friendliness: By reusing brass casings, you're contributing to a more environmentally conscious approach to shooting. Recycling brass reduces the demand for new manufacturing, lowering the environmental impact.
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Availability: Once-fired 45 ACP brass is relatively easy to find, either through online retailers, local gun shops, or even at shooting ranges (with permission, of course).
Sourcing Your 45 ACP Once-Fired Brass
Several options exist for obtaining high-quality once-fired 45 ACP brass:
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Online Retailers: Many online retailers specialize in selling once-fired brass, often offering it in bulk at competitive prices. Be sure to check reviews and compare prices before making a purchase. Look for sellers with clear grading systems to ensure you get the quality you expect.
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Local Gun Shops: Check with your local gun shops. They may sell once-fired brass, or they might know of other local sources. This is a great option for building a relationship with your local gun community.
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Shooting Ranges: Some shooting ranges allow shooters to collect brass after their session. Always obtain permission before collecting brass, and be respectful of range rules and safety regulations. Be aware that range brass is often mixed and may require more sorting and cleaning.
Preparing Once-Fired 45 ACP Brass for Reloading
Before you can reload your once-fired brass, proper preparation is essential:
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Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the brass to remove any carbon buildup, powder residue, and debris. A dedicated brass tumbler is highly recommended for efficient cleaning.
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Inspection: Carefully inspect each casing for cracks, dents, or other damage that could compromise its structural integrity. Discard any damaged brass.
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Sizing: Resize the brass to the correct dimensions using a suitable reloading press and sizing die. This ensures proper fit in your chamber and prevents malfunctions.
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Priming: If you're using a small rifle primer pocket, ensure you're using a proper primer seating tool. Using the correct tool and process is crucial to avoiding dangerous misfires.
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Trimming: Trim the case length to the specified dimensions. Inconsistent case length can lead to inconsistent pressure.
Conclusion
Reloading with once-fired 45 ACP brass is a smart, economical, and environmentally friendly way to enjoy your shooting hobby. By following these tips, you can source high-quality brass, prepare it correctly, and ensure safe and reliable reloading for years to come. Remember safety first! Always adhere to reloading safety guidelines and consult your reloading manual for specific instructions for your equipment. Happy reloading!
