The Importance of Clean Brass
Brass casings, the fundamental building blocks of ammunition, endure a harsh existence. Subjected to the intense pressures of combustion, they accumulate residue, carbon, and other debris that can compromise both the performance and the safety of your reloads. To ensure the longevity of your brass and the accuracy of your rounds, thorough cleaning is paramount. While numerous methods exist for this task, wet tumbling offers a superior approach. This guide delves into the world of wet tumblers for reloading, providing a complete overview of their benefits, operation, selection, and maintenance. It’s a thorough look at how this process elevates your reloading game.
The Superiority of Wet Tumbling
Wet tumblers represent a significant upgrade over older methods. This technique uses water, a specialized cleaning solution, and small stainless steel pins to scrub the interior and exterior of brass casings, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning that other methods often cannot achieve. The combination of liquid, agitation, and the abrasive action of stainless steel pins works in harmony to deliver remarkable results. This method excels in the removal of stubborn carbon deposits, powder residue, and corrosion, restoring brass to a gleaming, near-new condition. The method is particularly effective in dislodging contaminants deep within the casing, including those around the primer pocket.
Enhanced Reloading Consistency and Accuracy
Beyond aesthetic appeal, the deep cleaning action of wet tumblers significantly enhances the consistency of your reloads. When brass is consistently clean, reloading dies and other components can work with greater uniformity. This consistency directly translates to more predictable bullet seating, reduced variations in chamber pressures, and ultimately, improved accuracy on the range. For competitive shooters and those who demand the utmost precision, wet tumbling offers a significant advantage. It is the key ingredient in chasing sub-MOA groupings.
Primer Pocket Perfection
One of the most significant benefits of wet tumbling is its ability to thoroughly clean primer pockets. Clean primer pockets are essential for reliable and consistent primer ignition. Carbon buildup, commonly found in primer pockets, can hinder the seating of the primer, affecting its contact with the anvil and leading to inconsistent ignition. Wet tumbling, with its ability to reach deep inside the casings and into the primer pockets with the stainless steel pins, removes these carbon deposits. It means more consistent, reliable performance from every round.
Brass Lubrication Benefit
The cleaning solutions used in wet tumblers often have a lubricating effect. The soap or detergents included in these special formulas can help in reducing the friction during resizing. This is especially beneficial, making the resizing process smoother and easier on your reloading equipment and your brass. Properly lubricated brass also leads to less wear and tear on your reloading dies, extending their lifespan.
Different Types of Wet Tumblers
Although the principle of wet tumbling remains consistent, the equipment used can differ. It’s important to choose the right model for your needs. Here are some common wet tumbler types:
The Rotary Tumbler: The Workhorse of Brass Cleaning
Rotary tumblers are the most prevalent type of wet tumbler. They operate on a simple yet highly effective principle: a rotating drum agitates the water, cleaning solution, brass casings, and stainless steel pins. The constant tumbling action ensures that every surface of the brass is exposed to the cleaning process. These systems effectively clean the interior and exterior of brass, getting into every nook and cranny.
These machines generally offer quiet operation, which is a huge bonus for those reloading in a home environment. Although cleaning times are longer than some other methods, the thorough results typically justify the wait.
Choosing the Right Wet Tumbler
When selecting a wet tumbler, several factors must be considered:
Capacity: The Amount You Need
The capacity of the tumbler will directly influence the amount of brass you can clean in a single batch. Assess your reloading volume to determine the appropriate size. A smaller unit may be fine for casual plinking while someone who reloads on a large scale will want a higher capacity machine.
Features
Some tumblers offer added features such as timers and speed control, providing greater control over the cleaning process. Some are digital and programmable for different needs.
Budget
Wet tumblers range in price. Set a budget and identify the features you need before buying. Remember to factor in the cost of stainless steel pins, cleaning solutions, and other supplies.
Sonic Cleaners: An Alternative
Ultrasonic cleaners represent a completely different approach. These devices utilize high-frequency sound waves that create microscopic bubbles in the cleaning solution. The bubbles implode against the brass, dislodging dirt and debris. Ultrasonic cleaners clean your brass quickly. However, they are less effective at cleaning the interior of the cases, particularly primer pockets.
Getting Started: Tools and the Steps
The initial investment in wet tumbling equipment is modest. However, the rewards in terms of brass cleanliness and reloading consistency are significant. Here is a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Necessary Equipment and Supplies
The core components of your wet tumbling setup include:
- The Wet Tumbler Itself
- Stainless Steel Pins: These tiny, stainless steel pins are crucial for effective cleaning. They act as the abrasive agent, scrubbing away contaminants.
- Cleaning Solution: Specialized solutions for brass cleaning are available, which are formulated to remove carbon, dissolve residues, and leave the brass looking pristine.
- Water: Distilled water is generally recommended for the best results.
- A Container
- Separation Equipment: A magnetic separator is highly recommended to retrieve the stainless steel pins from the brass after tumbling.
- Rubber Gloves: This is an option, but if you plan to handle the cleaning solution frequently, this is a good idea.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Wet Tumbling Process
Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve optimal results:
- Prepare the Brass: Deprime the brass casings first. Remove any loose debris.
- Load the Brass: Place the brass casings into the tumbler. Avoid overcrowding the tumbler, as this reduces cleaning efficiency.
- Add the Cleaning Solution: Add the appropriate amount of water and cleaning solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Add the Pins: Pour in the stainless steel pins.
- Tumble: Run the tumbler for the recommended duration. Times vary.
- Separate the Brass and Pins: Use a magnetic separator to remove the pins.
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the brass with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution residue.
- Dry: Allow the brass to dry completely. Use an oven set to a low temperature or a food dehydrator to speed up the drying process.
Safety First
Reloading, in general, has safety precautions. Wet tumbling is no exception. Always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the cleaning solution, as some chemicals can be irritating to the skin and eyes.
Wet Tumbling vs. Dry Tumbling
Another cleaning method is dry tumbling. Let’s compare both:
Dry Tumbling: How It Works
Dry tumbling utilizes abrasive media, such as crushed walnut shells or corn cob, to polish and clean brass. While effective for removing surface debris and polishing, dry tumbling often falls short in removing residue from inside cases. Dry tumbling may be a decent option if your cases are already mostly clean.
Wet Tumbling vs. Dry Tumbling: A Head-to-Head
Wet tumbling wins out in this competition in several key areas.
- Cleaning Performance: Wet tumbling delivers superior cleaning, removing more contaminants.
- Cleaning Speed: Dry tumbling is much faster.
- Cost: The upfront costs of both systems are similar. The long-term costs of wet tumbling are generally lower because media needs to be replaced more frequently.
- Mess and Convenience: Wet tumbling is somewhat messy. Dry tumbling can generate significant dust.
- Noise Level: Wet tumblers are generally quieter. Dry tumblers can be noisy.
- Dust Control: Dry tumbling generates significant dust, which can be problematic. Wet tumbling does not.
When to Consider Dry Tumbling
There is a role for dry tumbling. If time is a factor, and you want a quick polish for your brass, dry tumbling may be appropriate. However, for maximum cleanliness, wet tumbling is preferable.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even the best processes can encounter problems. Here are solutions:
- The Brass Isn’t Cleaning Properly: Ensure you’re using the correct amount of cleaning solution. Don’t overload the tumbler. Extend the tumbling time.
- Rust/Discoloration: Thoroughly dry your brass after cleaning. Store brass in a dry environment.
- Pins are Stuck: Don’t overfill.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance will ensure that your wet tumbler lasts for years and provides consistent results.
- Keep the Tumbler Clean
- Maintain Stainless Steel Pins
- Inspect for Wear and Tear
In Conclusion
Wet tumblers for reloading represent a significant step forward in the cleaning process. The benefits are clear: superior cleaning, enhanced reloading consistency, and improved accuracy. The investment is modest compared to the results. For reloaders who value precision and quality, wet tumbling offers a compelling solution.
Now that you have a full understanding of wet tumbling, it’s time to explore your options and choose the best wet tumbler for your reloading needs. Enjoy the process and the benefits that follow.
