Reloading your own 7.62x39 ammunition offers several advantages: cost savings, the ability to tailor loads to your specific firearm, and the satisfaction of crafting your own ammunition. This guide focuses on using Hornady components, providing you with a solid foundation for safe and effective reloading. Remember: Always consult your firearm's manual and Hornady's loading data before beginning. This information is for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for official reloading manuals.
Understanding Hornady's Role in 7.62x39 Reloading
Hornady is a well-respected name in the ammunition and reloading component industry. They offer a wide range of products suitable for 7.62x39 reloading, including:
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Bullets: Hornady provides various 7.62x39 bullets, from FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) for practice to expanding bullets for hunting. Consider factors like bullet weight, construction, and intended use when making your selection. Popular choices include their FMJBT (Full Metal Jacket Boat Tail) and their XTP (Extreme Terminal Performance) bullets.
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Powders: Hornady offers a selection of powders compatible with 7.62x39, each with its own burn rate and characteristics. Choosing the right powder is crucial for achieving optimal performance and safety. Refer to Hornady's loading data for recommended powder types and charges.
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Primers: Hornady small rifle primers are essential for igniting the powder charge. Ensure you use the correct primer type; using the wrong primer can lead to dangerous malfunctions.
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Cases: While Hornady doesn't specifically manufacture 7.62x39 brass cases, their reloading dies are designed to work with commercially available cases. Choosing high-quality brass cases is important for consistent reloading results and longevity.
Essential Steps in Reloading 7.62x39 with Hornady Components
The reloading process involves several crucial steps:
1. Case Preparation:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean your brass cases to remove any residue from previous firings.
- Sizing: Resize cases to ensure they fit your chamber correctly using Hornady's sizing die.
- Deburring: Remove any sharp edges or burrs on the cases to prevent damage to your reloading equipment and ensure smooth feeding.
- Trimming: Trim cases to uniform length to maintain consistent cartridge overall length (OAL).
2. Priming:
- Using a priming tool, carefully seat a Hornady small rifle primer in each prepared case. Ensure proper seating depth to prevent misfires or primer damage.
3. Powder Charging:
- Accurately measure and charge the correct amount of Hornady powder using a powder scale. Never guess or estimate powder charges; this is extremely dangerous. Always double-check your powder charge before proceeding.
4. Bullet Seating:
- Use a bullet seating die to carefully seat the Hornady bullet to the correct depth. Maintaining consistent OAL is critical for accuracy and reliable function.
5. Crimping:
- Crimp the bullet to securely hold it in place. Excessive crimping can damage bullets, while insufficient crimping can lead to bullets separating from the case.
Safety Precautions:
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection while reloading.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Never mix different powder types.
- Always double-check your powder charges and OAL before loading rounds.
- Keep your reloading area clean and organized.
- Dispose of spent primers and other waste responsibly.
- Consult Hornady's reloading manual and your firearm's manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines.
Finding Hornady 7.62x39 Reloading Data
Hornady publishes comprehensive reloading data in their official manuals. These manuals are essential resources and provide detailed information on powder charges, bullet weights, and OAL recommendations for various Hornady components. Always reference the latest version of the manual.
By following these steps and utilizing Hornady's high-quality components and loading data, you can safely and effectively reload your own 7.62x39 ammunition. Remember, safety is paramount. Careful attention to detail and adherence to proper procedures are crucial for successful and safe reloading.
