Reloading your own ammunition can be a rewarding hobby, saving you money and offering a level of customization unavailable with factory ammo. However, the process isn't complete without properly cleaning your brass cases. This is where a brass tumbler comes in – a crucial piece of equipment for any serious reloader. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about brass tumblers for reloading, helping you choose the best one for your needs and ensuring your brass is sparkling clean and ready for reuse.
Why Use a Brass Tumbler for Reloading?
Before diving into the different types of tumblers, let's understand why they're essential. Dirty brass cases can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Inconsistent performance: Dirt, carbon, and other debris can interfere with proper powder ignition and bullet seating, impacting accuracy and potentially causing dangerous malfunctions.
- Damaged equipment: Grit and grime can scratch and damage your reloading dies and other equipment, leading to premature wear and tear.
- Compromised case life: Clean brass lasts longer. Removing debris reduces the risk of case neck cracking and extends the number of times you can reload each case.
Types of Brass Tumblers for Reloading
There are primarily two types of brass tumblers used for reloading:
1. Rotary Tumblers: The Workhorse of Brass Cleaning
Rotary tumblers are the most popular choice among reloaders. They use a rotating drum to tumble the brass cases with cleaning media, effectively removing dirt and debris. These are generally more robust and capable of handling larger batches of brass. Key features to consider include:
- Capacity: How many cases can it hold at once?
- Motor strength: A more powerful motor ensures consistent tumbling and thorough cleaning.
- Noise level: Some rotary tumblers can be quite noisy, so consider this if you're reloading in a shared space.
- Construction material: Look for durable materials like stainless steel for longevity.
2. Vibratory Tumblers: The Gentle Giant
Vibratory tumblers use vibrations to clean the brass, offering a gentler cleaning action than rotary tumblers. They’re often quieter and produce less wear on your cases, but they typically have a smaller capacity. Things to look for include:
- Amplitude and frequency: These factors determine the intensity of the vibration and the effectiveness of the cleaning.
- Bowl size and shape: The size of the bowl dictates how much brass it can hold.
- Noise level: While generally quieter than rotary tumblers, noise levels still vary.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Media
The cleaning media is just as crucial as the tumbler itself. Common options include:
- Walnut media: A popular, biodegradable option known for its gentle cleaning action. It's a good all-around choice for most reloaders.
- Corncob media: Another biodegradable option, often preferred for its aggressive cleaning power. However, it can be more abrasive than walnut media.
- Steel pins: These are excellent for removing stubborn carbon fouling, but they can be more abrasive and potentially damage softer brass cases if used improperly.
Setting Up Your Brass Tumbling System
Once you've chosen your tumbler and media, setting up your system is straightforward:
- Add cleaning media: Fill the tumbler with your chosen media according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Add brass cases: Carefully add your brass cases to the tumbler. Avoid overcrowding.
- Add lubricant (optional): Some reloaders add a small amount of lubricant to help prevent excessive wear on the brass and the media. This is particularly useful with steel pins.
- Add water (for wet tumbling): Wet tumbling is generally preferred for its superior cleaning power. Add water to the tumbler, ensuring the media is adequately saturated.
- Tumble for the recommended time: The required tumbling time varies depending on the tumbler, media, and level of soiling.
Maintaining Your Brass Tumbler
Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your brass tumbler and ensure optimal performance:
- Clean the tumbler regularly: After each use, remove any excess cleaning media and debris from the tumbler.
- Replace worn media: Cleaning media eventually wears down and becomes less effective. Replace it when it's no longer adequately cleaning the brass.
- Inspect the tumbler for damage: Regularly inspect the tumbler for any signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion: Invest in Cleanliness for Reloading Success
Investing in a quality brass tumbler and understanding how to use it effectively is crucial for successful reloading. By cleaning your brass thoroughly, you ensure consistent performance, protect your equipment, and extend the lifespan of your cases. Choose the right tumbler and media for your needs and follow the maintenance guidelines to get the most out of your investment. Happy reloading!
