The Remington .350 Remington Magnum is a powerful cartridge, and understanding its brass is crucial for reloaders and enthusiasts alike. This guide delves into the specifics of .350 Remington Magnum brass, covering its characteristics, sourcing, and considerations for reloading.
Understanding the .350 Remington Magnum Cartridge
Before diving into the brass itself, let's briefly discuss the cartridge. The .350 Remington Magnum, introduced in 2007, is a potent round designed for large game hunting. Its high-velocity performance makes it effective at longer ranges, offering significant stopping power. This power, however, necessitates careful consideration of the brass used in reloading.
Key Characteristics of .350 Remington Magnum Brass
.350 Remington Magnum brass differs from other calibers in several key aspects:
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Case Capacity: Its relatively large case capacity contributes to the cartridge's high muzzle energy and long-range capability. This also means that case preparation and reloading techniques need to be precise.
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Case Wall Thickness: The brass is typically thicker than many other hunting cartridges to withstand the high pressures generated during firing. This robustness is essential for safety and longevity.
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Headstamp Identification: Reputable manufacturers will clearly mark their brass with a headstamp, identifying the manufacturer and potentially the lot number. Checking the headstamp is critical for quality control and consistency.
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Primer Pocket Size: The primer pocket size is standardized, but ensuring consistent seating depth during reloading is paramount for safe and reliable function.
Sourcing .350 Remington Magnum Brass
Finding suitable .350 Remington Magnum brass can sometimes present a challenge, particularly compared to more common calibers. Several avenues exist:
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Fired Brass: This is a cost-effective option for reloaders. Collecting fired brass from the range requires diligence and patience, but it can significantly reduce the overall cost of ammunition.
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Commercial Suppliers: Numerous reloading supply companies offer new, once-fired, or even sorted brass. Checking online retailers and local gun shops is recommended. Pay attention to the condition and price; quality brass is worth the investment.
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Online Forums and Communities: Connecting with other reloaders through online forums can reveal sources for brass, as well as provide valuable tips and insights regarding specific brands and their performance.
Reloading Considerations for .350 Remington Magnum Brass
Reloading .350 Remington Magnum brass necessitates careful attention to detail:
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Case Preparation: Thorough case preparation is critical. This includes resizing, trimming, deburring, and cleaning to ensure consistent performance and safety.
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Primer Selection: Use only large rifle magnum primers designed for the high pressures of this cartridge. Incorrect primers can lead to dangerous malfunctions.
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Powder Selection: Choose a powder specifically recommended for the .350 Remington Magnum. Incorrect powder choices can result in unsafe pressures. Always consult reloading manuals for accurate load data.
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Bullet Selection: Bullet weight and type should be carefully considered, again referencing reloading manuals for safe and effective load data.
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Safety Precautions: Always prioritize safety when reloading ammunition. Follow all safety guidelines provided in reloading manuals and wear appropriate safety equipment.
Conclusion
Successfully reloading .350 Remington Magnum ammunition requires a solid understanding of the cartridge and its brass components. Sourcing quality brass, performing thorough case preparation, and carefully following reloading manuals are crucial steps in producing safe and reliable ammunition. Remember, accuracy and safety should always be prioritized. This information provides a solid starting point, but further research and consultation with experienced reloaders are always recommended.
