Case Prep

Case preparation, also known as 'case prep', is an essential step in the process of ammunition reloading. It involves various tasks performed on cartridge cases to ensure they are in optimal condition for reloading. The goal of case prep is to achieve consistency, improve accuracy, and enhance the overall quality of reloaded ammunition. Clicking on the links below will open a detailed description of the case prep tools for sale in a new window on eBay.

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Here are some common case prep tasks and the tools that can assist in each:

1. Case Cleaning: Before reloading, it's important to clean the fired brass cases to remove dirt, debris, and residue. Tools for case cleaning include:
   • Tumbler: A vibratory or rotary tumbler with appropriate media (such as corn cob or stainless steel pins) is used to clean and polish the cases.
   • Case Cleaning Solution: Chemical cleaning solutions can be used in combination with a tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner to remove stubborn dirt or carbon buildup.
2. Case Inspection and Sorting: After cleaning, cases should be inspected for signs of damage or defects. Sorting cases based on brand, headstamp, or length can help maintain consistency in reloading batches. Tools for case inspection and sorting include:
   • Case Gauges: These tools check the overall length, shoulder position, and headspace of cases to ensure they meet the desired specifications.
   • Calipers: Calipers allow precise measurement of case dimensions, such as case length and neck diameter, to identify any variations or irregularities.
   • Case Sorting Trays: Trays with multiple compartments help organize and sort cases based on specific criteria.
3. Case Resizing and Trimming: Resizing ensures that the fired cases regain the proper dimensions for reliable chambering. Trimming is necessary to achieve consistent case length. Tools for case resizing and trimming include:
   • Reloading Press: A sturdy reloading press with appropriate sizing dies is used to resize the cases, restoring them to the correct dimensions.
   • Case Trimmer: A case trimmer, either manual or powered, is used to trim excess brass from the case mouth, ensuring consistent length.
   • Deburring Tool: After trimming, a deburring tool removes any burrs or chamfers from the case mouth to facilitate smooth bullet seating.
4. Primer Pocket Cleaning: The primer pocket, where the primer is seated, may accumulate carbon or debris after firing. Cleaning the primer pockets ensures proper primer seating and ignition. Tools for primer pocket cleaning include:
   • Primer Pocket Cleaner: Handheld or rotary primer pocket cleaners remove debris from the primer pocket to ensure consistent seating of primers.
   • Primer Pocket Uniformer: This tool helps to remove any crimp or inconsistencies in the primer pocket, ensuring uniform primer seating.
5. Neck Preparation: For cases that require neck resizing or expanding, additional tools may be used:
   • Neck Sizing Die: A neck sizing die is used to resize only the neck portion of the case, maintaining a precise fit for the bullet.
   • Neck Expander: An expander die expands the neck slightly to ensure proper bullet seating.

It's worth noting that the specific case prep tasks and tools used can vary depending on the cartridge and individual preferences. Each reloader may have their own preferred methods and tools based on their reloading goals and equipment. Always follow proper safety practices and refer to reloading manuals or experienced reloaders for guidance on case prep and reloading procedures.