Understanding Primer Pocket Crimps: The Why and How
Are you a reloader who’s faced the frustration of stubborn primer pocket crimps on military brass? Have you spent what felt like hours struggling to prep those cases, only to have primers that won’t seat properly, or worse, get damaged in the process? It’s a common experience, and it’s a hurdle that can quickly turn a relaxing reloading session into a tedious chore. Luckily, there are solutions available, and one of the most respected and reliable tools for the job is the RCBS Military Crimp Remover. This article will be your comprehensive guide, covering everything you need to know about this essential tool, from understanding crimps to mastering its use and determining if it’s the right choice for your reloading needs. Before diving into the specifics of the RCBS Military Crimp Remover, let’s clarify the basics: What exactly is a primer pocket crimp, and why is it even there? The answer lies in the history and purpose of military ammunition. Military rounds are designed for reliability and performance under demanding conditions. To ensure this, the primer is firmly seated in the pocket, resisting the forces of firing and rough handling. To achieve this secure seating, ammunition manufacturers crimp the brass around the primer pocket. This crimp is a small ring of metal that is pushed inward, locking the primer in place. It’s a robust solution, designed to prevent primers from backing out under recoil or during rough handling, crucial for combat scenarios. Now, when it comes to reloading, this crimp presents a significant challenge. Trying to seat a new primer into a crimped pocket without addressing the crimp is a recipe for disaster. The primer will either fail to seat, be damaged, or worse, deform the primer pocket, making it unsuitable for future reloading. Successfully reloading military brass requires a tool that can efficiently and effectively remove this crimp, preparing the pocket for a fresh primer. This is where the RCBS Military Crimp Remover becomes a valuable asset to the reloader.
Introducing the RCBS Military Crimp Remover: A Closer Look
The RCBS Military Crimp Remover is a purpose-built tool designed to address the challenges posed by primer pocket crimps. It is a well-regarded solution for those who regularly process military brass. The tool itself is, at its heart, a reamer or a swaging tool. Depending on the model, it works by either reaming out the crimp material or by swaging the brass to open the primer pocket. The RCBS Military Crimp Remover is commonly designed to mount in your reloading press, allowing you to integrate the crimp removal step seamlessly into your reloading workflow. The basic design is typically straightforward, which adds to its reliability. A cutting head, or the reamer, is made of hardened steel, designed to withstand the wear and tear of removing crimps from countless brass cases. This head is engineered to create a perfectly sized pocket for optimal primer seating. The tool typically features a robust handle or attachment mechanism to connect to your reloading press, and it’s usually constructed with durability in mind. The tool itself is built with the expectation that reloaders will be handling large amounts of cases.
Mastering the Technique: A Step-by-Step Guide
Using the RCBS Military Crimp Remover is a relatively simple process, but following the steps correctly will ensure optimal results. Before you start, it’s always a good idea to have a clean work area. The crimp removal process works best on brass that has been cleaned, ideally in a tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner. This removes any debris that could hinder the tool’s performance or contaminate your reloading components.
Setup is Key
First, attach the RCBS Military Crimp Remover to your reloading press. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for secure mounting.
Fine-tuning
Depending on the press and the tool, you may need to adjust the depth to ensure that the reamer/swager makes proper contact with the crimp without removing too much material. Too much can weaken the primer pocket, while too little will still leave a partial crimp. Careful adjustment, using a few scrap cases initially, will ensure a perfect result.
The Operation
Place a brass case in the press, aligning the primer pocket with the tool.
Engage the Tool
Slowly and smoothly lower the press handle, guiding the case onto the reamer or into the swaging head. The key is consistent and controlled pressure, allowing the tool to do its job.
Assess the Results
Carefully remove the case from the press. Inspect the primer pocket. There should be no remaining trace of the crimp, and the pocket should be uniform in size and smooth. It’s a good practice to run a primer into the pocket to make sure it seats properly. If it seats with minimal resistance and is flush with the case head, you’ve achieved the perfect result.
Repeat
Repeat the process for each case. Consistent and methodical operation is key. With practice, you’ll develop a rhythm that makes the process quick and efficient.
Benefits of the RCBS Military Crimp Remover
Choosing the right tool for the job is crucial, and the RCBS Military Crimp Remover offers several advantages for reloaders:
Efficiency
Compared to manual crimp removal tools, which can be incredibly time-consuming, the RCBS tool streamlines the process. You can process many cases in a short period, leading to faster reloading times and more time spent shooting.
Precision
The reamer or swaging head is designed to create a consistently sized primer pocket. This precision is crucial for proper primer seating and ensuring reliable ignition. A well-prepared primer pocket provides a consistent depth for primer seating, and provides consistent performance.
User-Friendly
The RCBS Military Crimp Remover is generally easy to use, even for reloaders who are new to the process. The straightforward design and clear instructions make it easy to learn and use effectively.
Built to Last
RCBS products are often known for their durability, and the Military Crimp Remover is no exception. With proper care, the tool can provide years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for any reloader who works with military brass.
Cost-Effective
While not the cheapest tool on the market, the RCBS Military Crimp Remover offers a balance between performance and value. Its efficiency and durability make it a good investment for the serious reloader. Compared to the time spent using less efficient methods, it pays for itself quickly.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While the RCBS Military Crimp Remover is a popular choice, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks:
User Error
While the tool is easy to use, it’s possible to over-ream or over-swage the primer pocket if you are not careful. This can weaken the pocket or make it too large for the primer. It’s crucial to be precise with the adjustments and the operation of the tool.
Material Matters
The RCBS Military Crimp Remover is primarily designed for military brass. While it can sometimes be used on commercial brass with crimped primers, it’s primarily optimized for military cases. If you primarily reload commercial brass, other tools might be more suitable.
Specific Calibers
While the RCBS Military Crimp Remover is available in a variety of calibers, it’s not universal. Check for compatibility with your specific cartridge before making a purchase.
Alternatives to the RCBS Military Crimp Remover
While the RCBS Military Crimp Remover is a popular choice, the reloading market offers various alternatives to address primer pocket crimps:
Hand-held Crimp Removal Tools
These tools, usually equipped with a reamer, allow you to remove the crimp manually. While they are a low-cost option, they are significantly slower than using a press-mounted tool.
Case Trimming Tools with Crimp Removal Function
Some case trimmers include a dedicated function for removing primer pocket crimps. This can be a good option if you already use a case trimmer.
Swaging Tools
Swaging tools use a different method to remove the crimp. They open up the pocket without removing any material. These tools can be effective but sometimes require careful adjustment to achieve the desired results.
Who Should Own the RCBS Military Crimp Remover?
The RCBS Military Crimp Remover is an ideal tool for specific reloaders:
Military Brass Users
The primary target audience is reloaders who frequently work with military surplus brass.
Volume Reloaders
The tool is well-suited for reloaders who process large volumes of cases. The efficiency it provides makes it a worthwhile investment.
Precision Reloaders
Reloaders who value consistency and accuracy will appreciate the tool’s ability to produce uniformly sized primer pockets.
Those Seeking Efficiency
The tool saves a significant amount of time compared to other methods.
Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Tool in Top Shape
To ensure the longevity and performance of your RCBS Military Crimp Remover, simple maintenance is essential:
Regular Cleaning
After each reloading session, clean the tool to remove any brass shavings or other debris. Use a brush and solvent to wipe down the cutting head and other parts.
Proper Storage
When not in use, store the tool in a clean and dry environment.
Inspection
Regularly inspect the reamer or swaging head for wear or damage.
Conclusion: The Right Choice for Military Brass Reloading
The RCBS Military Crimp Remover offers a reliable and efficient solution for dealing with the primer pocket crimps found on military brass. Its ease of use, precision, and durability make it a valuable asset for any reloader. While alternatives exist, the RCBS Military Crimp Remover stands out for its combination of functionality, and value. Whether you are a seasoned reloader or just starting, if you work with military brass, the RCBS Military Crimp Remover is a tool you should definitely consider. It will significantly improve your reloading experience. Now, remove the frustration and buy yourself an RCBS Military Crimp Remover and get back to what matters: reloading!
