Reloading ammunition is a rewarding hobby, but it's also a meticulous process. One crucial step often overlooked is brass cleaning. While dry tumbling works, wet tumbling offers superior cleaning power, leaving your brass gleaming and ready for reuse. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of wet tumblers for reloading, covering everything from choosing the right equipment to achieving optimal results.
Why Choose Wet Tumbling?
Wet tumbling surpasses dry tumbling in several key areas:
- Superior Cleaning: Wet tumbling utilizes a media and cleaning solution to effectively remove carbon, dirt, and other contaminants embedded deep within the casing. Dry tumbling often leaves behind residue, especially in the primer pockets.
- Brighter Brass: The chemical action of the cleaning solution polishes the brass, leaving it with a significantly brighter shine than dry tumbling methods. This is not just aesthetic; shiny brass is easier to inspect for flaws.
- Improved Lube Removal: Wet tumbling is particularly effective at removing sizing and lubricating compounds, ensuring consistent performance during reloading.
- Less Media Wear: While you'll still need to replace the media eventually, wet tumbling often results in less wear and tear compared to dry tumbling, extending its lifespan.
Selecting Your Wet Tumbler: Key Considerations
The market offers a variety of wet tumblers, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right one depends on your needs and budget. Here's a breakdown of essential factors:
Capacity:
Consider how much brass you typically process at once. Smaller tumblers are great for occasional reloaders, while larger models are ideal for high-volume shooters.
Motor Power & Durability:
A robust motor ensures consistent and efficient tumbling. Look for tumblers with durable construction to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Ease of Use and Cleaning:
Choose a tumbler that's easy to load, unload, and clean. Some models have features like quick-release lids or removable containers that simplify the process.
Noise Level:
Wet tumblers can be noisy. Consider the noise level, especially if you plan to use it in a shared space or during evenings.
The Wet Tumbling Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparation:
- Gather your materials: This includes your wet tumbler, cleaning media (typically stainless steel pins or corncob media), a cleaning solution (specifically formulated for brass cleaning), and your brass casings.
- Inspect your brass: Remove any severely damaged or deformed cases.
2. Loading the Tumbler:
- Add the media: The manufacturer's instructions will specify the media-to-brass ratio. Generally, you want enough media to ensure the brass is thoroughly cleaned and moving freely.
- Add the cleaning solution: Follow the manufacturer's recommended amount of cleaning solution. Too little won't clean effectively, while too much can be wasteful or even damage the brass.
- Add the brass: Place your prepared brass casings into the tumbler.
3. Tumbling:
- Set the timer: The tumbling time varies depending on the solution and the amount of dirt on the brass. Start with the manufacturer's recommended time and adjust as needed.
- Run the tumbler: Let the tumbler do its work!
4. Post-Tumbling:
- Drain the solution: Carefully empty the cleaning solution.
- Rinse the brass: Rinse the brass thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. This is crucial to prevent residue from affecting your reloading process.
- Dry the brass: Allow the brass to air dry completely or use a towel to dry it thoroughly.
5. Inspection:
- Examine the brass: Inspect each casing for any remaining dirt, damage, or defects.
Cleaning Solutions and Media: Making the Right Choices
The effectiveness of your wet tumbling depends heavily on the cleaning solution and media you use.
Cleaning Solutions:
Many commercially available solutions are specifically formulated for brass cleaning. They typically contain mild acids and detergents that effectively remove dirt and tarnish.
Media:
- Stainless Steel Pins: These are a popular choice for their durability and cleaning power.
- Corncob Media: A more environmentally friendly option, corncob media is gentler on the brass but might not be as effective for heavily soiled cases.
Troubleshooting Common Wet Tumbling Issues
- Brass not getting clean: Check the media-to-brass ratio, tumbling time, and the concentration of your cleaning solution. Try a different cleaning solution if needed.
- Media breaking down too quickly: This could be due to using abrasive media or an excessively aggressive cleaning solution.
- Tumbler not working properly: Inspect the motor, power cord, and other components.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can master the art of wet tumbling and enjoy the benefits of clean, shiny, and perfectly prepared brass for your reloading endeavors. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific equipment.
