Can You Reload Nickel Plated Brass? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of whether you can reload nickel-plated brass is a common one among reloaders, and the answer is a qualified yes, but with important caveats. Nickel plating adds a layer of complexity to the reloading process, impacting case life and requiring specific attention to detail. Let's delve into the specifics.
Understanding Nickel Plating and its Effects on Reloading
Nickel plating offers several advantages to brass casings: increased durability, enhanced corrosion resistance, and a visually appealing finish. However, these benefits come with considerations for reloaders.
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Increased Hardness: Nickel plating increases the hardness of the brass, making it slightly more difficult to resize. This can lead to increased wear on your resizing dies and potentially increased case splitting, particularly if your equipment isn't properly lubricated or if you're using aggressive resizing methods.
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Potential for Flaking: While less common with high-quality plating, there's a risk of the nickel plating flaking off during resizing or other reloading processes. This can contaminate your reloading equipment and potentially lead to inaccurate loads.
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Lubrication is Crucial: Proper lubrication is paramount when reloading nickel-plated brass. The harder surface requires more lubrication to prevent excessive die wear and case damage. Using a high-quality case lubricant specifically designed for plated brass is strongly recommended.
Reloading Nickel Plated Brass: A Step-by-Step Approach
If you decide to reload nickel-plated brass, follow these steps meticulously:
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Inspection: Thoroughly inspect each casing for any signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or significant plating imperfections. Discard any cases exhibiting these flaws.
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Cleaning: Clean the cases thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or residue. While a standard cleaning process works, paying extra attention to remove any potential contaminants is advised.
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Lubrication: Generously lubricate the cases, paying particular attention to the case mouth, shoulder, and base. Use a lubricant specifically formulated for plated brass.
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Resizing: Use a slow, steady resizing process. Avoid aggressive resizing techniques that could damage the plating or the brass itself.
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Trimming: Trim the cases to the proper length. Nickel plating doesn't significantly alter the trimming process, but using sharp tools and consistent techniques are always crucial.
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Priming: Prime the cases as you would with any other brass.
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Powder Charging: Charge the cases with the correct powder charge, adhering strictly to your chosen load data.
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Bullet Seating: Seat the bullets firmly and consistently.
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Crimping: Crimp the cases as needed to secure the bullet.
Maintaining and Extending Case Life
To maximize the life of your nickel-plated brass, consider the following:
- Gentle Handling: Avoid dropping or mishandling the cases, as this can damage the plating.
- Proper Storage: Store your cases in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion.
- Regular Inspection: Inspect the cases before each reloading session for any signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion: Proceed with Caution and Proper Technique
Reloading nickel-plated brass is possible, and many reloaders successfully do so. However, it's essential to approach the process with caution and meticulous attention to detail. By using high-quality lubricants, employing proper resizing techniques, and regularly inspecting your cases, you can safely and effectively reload nickel-plated brass, extending its lifespan and ensuring safe and accurate ammunition. Remember, always consult your reloading manual and adhere to safe reloading practices.
