The .35 Remington, a classic cartridge known for its power and versatility, remains a favorite among hunters and shooters. While factory ammunition is readily available, many find the rewarding experience and cost savings of reloading their own .35 Remington ammunition compelling. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the reloading process, covering everything from selecting components to final testing.
Choosing Your Reloading Components
The foundation of successful reloading lies in selecting high-quality components. Compromising on quality can lead to inconsistent performance and potentially dangerous situations.
Cases
.35 Remington cases are readily available from numerous manufacturers. New brass is the preferred choice for consistent performance and longevity. However, once-fired brass can be a cost-effective option, provided it's carefully inspected for damage. Look for cases without dents, cracks, or excessive expansion near the case head. Always trim cases to the correct length using a case trimmer to ensure consistent chambering.
Bullets
Bullet selection significantly impacts the performance of your .35 Remington loads. The most common choices are:
- Round Nose: These bullets are suitable for general-purpose shooting and hunting smaller game.
- Flat Nose: These provide greater accuracy and energy transfer at shorter ranges.
- Hollow Point: Designed for hunting, hollow points expand upon impact, causing greater damage to game.
Choose bullets that match your intended use. Pay attention to the bullet's weight and its ballistic coefficient (BC), which affects its trajectory and accuracy at longer ranges. Consider the bullet's construction (lead, jacketed, etc.) as well.
Powder
Selecting the correct powder is critical for safety and performance. Consult the reloading manuals from major powder manufacturers (like Hodgdon, IMR, Alliant) for recommended powder charges for the .35 Remington. These manuals provide load data based on specific bullet weights, case brands, and primers. Never exceed the maximum recommended charge listed in these manuals. Using too much powder can lead to dangerous pressure spikes.
Some popular powders for the .35 Remington include IMR 4198, IMR 3031, and H4895. Experimentation within safe limits is essential to find the best powder for your specific setup and desired velocity. Always use a powder scale to accurately measure your powder charges to ensure consistency and safety.
Primers
Primers ignite the powder charge, initiating the combustion process. Choose small rifle primers designed for the .35 Remington. Consistent priming is essential for reliable ignition and consistent velocities.
Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The reloading process involves several critical steps:
- Case Preparation: This includes cleaning, resizing, and trimming your brass cases.
- Priming: Carefully seat the primers into the prepared cases using a priming tool.
- Powder Charging: Accurately measure the powder charge using a powder scale and carefully dispense it into each case.
- Bullet Seating: Carefully seat the bullets into the cases, ensuring they are properly aligned and seated to the correct depth.
- Crimping: Crimp the bullet to secure it firmly in the case mouth, preventing it from moving during recoil.
Each step requires precision and attention to detail. Using the correct tools and following safe procedures is paramount. Consider using a case feeder to improve efficiency during mass production.
Safety Precautions: Reloading .35 Remington
Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed. Always adhere to the following guidelines:
- Consult reloading manuals: Always refer to the manufacturer's load data and follow the recommended procedures precisely.
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection: This is essential to protect your eyes and ears from potential hazards.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gunpowder fumes can be harmful if inhaled.
- Never mix powders: This could lead to unexpected and dangerous pressure spikes.
- Keep your reloading area clean and organized: A cluttered workspace increases the risk of accidents.
- Check your loaded rounds: After reloading, visually inspect each round for abnormalities or inconsistencies before using them.
Load Development and Testing
After reloading a batch of ammunition, load development involves testing different combinations of components to optimize accuracy and performance. Start by using the minimum recommended load data from your reloading manuals and gradually increase the charge while closely monitoring pressure signs. A chronograph can accurately measure muzzle velocity to assess the performance of your different loads.
Conclusion
Reloading the .35 Remington offers a rewarding experience for those seeking to customize their ammunition, improve accuracy, and save money. By carefully selecting high-quality components, following safe reloading practices, and diligently performing load development, you can create reliable and high-performing ammunition for your shooting needs. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult reputable sources for guidance.