The .270 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) has quickly gained popularity among hunters and target shooters for its impressive ballistics and manageable recoil. A crucial component of achieving optimal performance with this cartridge is high-quality brass. This guide delves into the world of .270 WSM brass, exploring its characteristics, sourcing options, and essential considerations for reloading.
Understanding .270 WSM Brass: Key Characteristics
.270 WSM brass differs from its parent cartridge, the .270 Winchester, in several key aspects. The shorter, fatter case design allows for higher pressures and velocities while maintaining manageable recoil. This necessitates brass that can withstand these increased pressures and remain reliable through multiple reload cycles. Key characteristics to look for include:
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Consistent Dimensions: Precise dimensions are crucial for reliable feeding and consistent chambering. Variations in case length, headspace, and neck diameter can lead to malfunctions.
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High-Quality Material: Brass composition significantly impacts durability and lifespan. Look for brass that is composed of strong, durable alloys capable of withstanding repeated firing and reloading cycles.
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Proper Annealing: Annealing is a heat-treating process that softens the brass, making it more resilient to work hardening and reducing the risk of case failures. High-quality brass will often undergo proper annealing during manufacturing.
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Uniform Wall Thickness: Consistent wall thickness ensures even pressure distribution and reduces the likelihood of splits or ruptures.
Sourcing .270 WSM Brass: Options and Considerations
Several avenues exist for acquiring high-quality .270 WSM brass. The best choice depends on budget, reloading volume, and desired level of quality control:
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New Brass: Purchasing new brass from reputable manufacturers ensures consistent quality and optimal performance. This is the most expensive option, but provides the best starting point for reloading. Brands like Norma, Federal, Winchester, and Hornady all offer high-quality .270 WSM brass.
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Once-Fired Brass: Buying once-fired brass can be a more cost-effective alternative, but requires careful inspection for damage before reloading. Reputable sources are crucial to ensure the brass is in good condition and hasn't been subjected to excessive pressures.
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Range Brass: Collecting range brass can be a very budget-friendly option, but it requires significant effort and careful sorting to eliminate damaged or unsuitable cases. Range brass is often mixed with other calibers, requiring extra time and attention to selection.
Preparing .270 WSM Brass for Reloading: Essential Steps
Before you can load your .270 WSM brass, several crucial preparation steps are necessary:
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Inspection: Carefully inspect each case for any signs of damage, including dents, cracks, or bulges. Discard any damaged cases.
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Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the brass to remove any residue or fouling from previous firings. A case tumbler is highly recommended for efficient cleaning.
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Sizing: Size the cases to ensure proper chambering. This involves resizing the case body and neck to the correct dimensions.
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Trimming: Trim the case length to maintain consistent headspace. Using a case trimmer ensures uniform case length, crucial for reliable function.
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Deburring: Remove any sharp edges from the case mouth and flash holes to prevent damage to sizing dies and ensure smooth reloading.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your .270 WSM Brass
Selecting and properly preparing your .270 WSM brass is a crucial step in achieving optimal performance and safety when reloading. By choosing high-quality brass, performing thorough inspections, and following proper preparation procedures, you'll ensure accurate and reliable ammunition for years to come. Remember to always consult reloading manuals and exercise caution when handling firearms and ammunition.
