The Importance of Clean Brass
Reloading Accuracy
The gleaming allure of freshly reloaded ammunition is a point of pride for many shooters and reloaders. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, clean and meticulously prepared cartridge cases are crucial for accuracy, safety, and the longevity of your firearms and reloading equipment. One of the most effective methods for achieving this perfect state is tumbling brass with stainless steel media. This article is designed to serve as a comprehensive guide to this process, ensuring you understand the “why” and the “how” of creating pristine, reload-ready cartridge cases.
Case Lifespan
Before delving into the specifics of tumbling, it’s essential to understand the significant impact clean brass cases have on your reloading experience. Think of your cartridge cases as the foundation of your ammunition. The quality of this foundation directly influences the performance of your firearm.
Reloading Simplicity
Reloading accuracy is significantly enhanced by uniform case dimensions and clean surfaces. The removal of residue from the firing process, such as carbon buildup and powder residue, allows for consistent bullet seating and proper case neck tension. A clean case ensures reliable bullet hold, which is crucial for consistent muzzle velocity and, consequently, accuracy.
Understanding the Power of Stainless Steel Media
Effectiveness
Furthermore, clean brass cases contribute to a longer lifespan for the cases themselves. The firing process introduces heat and pressure, and these forces are compounded by any abrasive debris or corrosion present on the case. Tumbling brass with stainless steel media thoroughly removes these contaminants, minimizing wear and tear. This can substantially extend the lifespan of your brass, translating to savings on materials and a lower frequency of case replacements.
Durability
Beyond performance and longevity, clean brass simplifies the reloading process. Inspection becomes far easier; you can more readily identify cracks, bulges, or other defects that could pose a safety risk. Lubrication is more effective with clean cases, leading to smoother resizing and reloading operations.
Media Type
Tumbling brass is a tried-and-true method for cleaning and polishing cartridge cases. While other methods exist, like ultrasonic cleaning, the efficiency and ease of use offered by tumbling, especially with stainless steel media, make it a popular choice among reloaders.
Cleaning Action
But what exactly makes stainless steel media so effective?
Advantages
Stainless steel media is typically available in two primary forms: pins and beads. Both varieties are made from durable stainless steel alloys, offering exceptional cleaning power. Stainless steel media gets into every nook and cranny of your cases, both inside and out. This is particularly important because residue can build up inside the case, affecting powder ignition and causing inconsistent performance.
Long-term Costs
The advantages of using stainless steel media go beyond its ability to remove stubborn carbon and grime. Stainless steel media are incredibly durable, meaning they can withstand repeated use without breaking down or needing frequent replacement. This longevity translates to long-term cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint.
Speed
Compared to traditional tumbling media like corn cob or walnut shell, stainless steel media offers a superior cleaning action. Corn cob and walnut shell are effective for polishing but less efficient at removing stubborn carbon or deep-seated residue. Stainless steel media, on the other hand, scours away contaminants with remarkable efficiency, leaving you with incredibly clean and polished brass.
Eco-friendliness
Using stainless steel media for tumbling brass also often results in faster cleaning times compared to other methods. You can achieve professional-grade results in a fraction of the time, making it a very appealing option for reloaders who value both quality and efficiency.
Essential Equipment and Supplies
Tumblers
Another major advantage of stainless steel media is its eco-friendliness. Since stainless steel is a durable material that lasts for many reloads, there is less waste involved.
Media
To successfully tumble brass with stainless steel media, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment and supplies. Here’s a breakdown:
Cleaning Solution
First, you’ll need a dedicated tumbling machine. Two main types of tumblers are typically used: rotary and vibratory. Rotary tumblers are commonly preferred for wet tumbling, offering a more thorough cleaning action. The capacity of your tumbler should align with your reloading needs and the number of brass cases you typically process.
Brass Cases
Second, the heart of the process: stainless steel media. The amount of media needed depends on the size and capacity of your tumbler. Generally, you want a ratio that allows the media to freely circulate and come into contact with every surface of the brass cases.
Water
Third, a cleaning solution is essential. While various solutions can work, a simple mixture of water and a small amount of dish soap often provides excellent results. Adding a touch of citric acid (like Lemishine) enhances cleaning by removing stubborn tarnish and creating a brighter finish.
Separation Tool
Fourth, you’ll need a supply of the brass cases you wish to clean. Prepare your brass cases by removing any primers and resizing if necessary.
Safety
Fifth, water is the primary ingredient of your cleaning solution.
The Tumbling Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Safety Precautions
Sixth, you’ll need a sifting or separating tool to separate the brass cases from the stainless steel media after tumbling. A media separator will speed up the process.
Case Preparation
Finally, always prioritize safety. Wear safety glasses and gloves throughout the process to protect your eyes and skin from chemicals and potential hazards.
Cleaning Solution
Let’s walk through the process of tumbling brass with stainless steel media:
Loading the Tumbler
Begin by putting on your safety glasses and gloves. Safety first!
Tumbling Time
Next, prepare your brass cases. Ensure the spent primers have been removed, and resize your cases if necessary. This preparation optimizes the cleaning process.
Separating the Brass
Now, prepare your cleaning solution. In a suitable container, mix water with a small amount of dish soap and a pinch of Lemishine if desired. The exact proportions will depend on your specific recipe and the size of your tumbler.
Rinsing
Load your tumbler. Start by adding the stainless steel media. Then, pour in your cleaning solution. Finally, add the prepared brass cases. Ensure that the brass cases are submerged and that the media has plenty of room to move freely.
Drying
Set the tumbling time. Generally, a few hours is sufficient for most brass cases, but the time can vary based on case condition and the strength of your cleaning solution. Check your cases periodically to determine when the desired level of cleanliness and polish has been achieved.
Inspection
After tumbling, separate the brass cases from the media. Using a sifter or media separator. This is the most time-consuming step.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Ineffective Cleaning
Rinse the cases and media thoroughly. This step removes any remaining cleaning solution residue.
Media Stuck in Cases
Finally, dry your brass cases. An oven set to a low temperature (below 200°F) or a hair dryer on a low heat setting are both effective options. Ensure the cases are completely dry to prevent water spots and potential corrosion. Make sure the inside and outside are completely dry to prevent any chance of corrosion.
Tarnished Brass
Inspect the brass cases. Look for any remaining dirt, damage, or areas that might require additional cleaning.
Solution Quantity
Even with a well-planned process, occasional issues can arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Over Tumbling
If your brass isn’t cleaning effectively, check the strength of your cleaning solution. Adding more dish soap or a bit more Lemishine might help. Another possible issue is the tumbling time. Extending the tumbling cycle could also improve cleaning.
Maintaining Your Equipment
Media Maintenance
If the stainless steel media gets stuck in the cases, ensure you’re using the correct type of media (e.g., pins). Ensure that the mouth of the case is open, preventing the media from getting caught. Careful preparation of cases, such as trimming, may also help. When separating the media, be certain to take your time.
Tumbler Maintenance
Tarnished brass after drying can be prevented by rinsing the cases thoroughly. Also, it might be helpful to apply a protective sealant before drying.
Conclusion: A Clean Start for Superior Reloading
If you use too much or too little cleaning solution, you may get an inconsistent cleaning action. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the solution.
Summary
Over tumbled brass may show signs of brass erosion. Shorten the tumble time and monitor the brass closely.
Recommendation
Maintaining your equipment ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Final Thoughts
Clean the stainless steel media after each use. Rinse the media thoroughly to remove any residual cleaning solution and debris. Allow the media to dry completely before storing it in a dry place.
