Finding the right brass for your 22-250 Remington is crucial for consistent accuracy and reliable performance. This in-depth guide focuses on 22-250 small primer brass, covering everything from its characteristics to sourcing, preparation, and optimal use. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just starting, this information will help you make informed decisions about your ammunition.
Understanding 22-250 Small Primer Brass
The .22-250 Remington cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and impressive long-range accuracy, making it a popular choice for varmint hunting and long-range shooting. A key component of successful reloading is using high-quality brass, and the choice between large and small rifle primers significantly impacts performance. This article specifically targets the nuances of 22-250 small primer brass.
Advantages of Small Primer Brass
- Increased Case Capacity: While seemingly minor, the space occupied by the primer is slightly less with small rifle primers, leading to a negligible increase in case capacity. This can result in slightly higher velocities, especially with faster burning powders.
- Improved Primer Seating: Some reloaders find small rifle primers easier to seat consistently, reducing the risk of misfires or inconsistent ignition. This is subjective and depends on the reloader's equipment and technique.
- Availability: While large primer 22-250 brass is available, small primer brass is often more readily sourced from various manufacturers.
Disadvantages of Small Primer Brass (Minor Considerations)
- Primer Availability: While generally readily available, certain specialized small rifle primers might be harder to find during periods of high demand.
- Potential for Damage: The smaller primer pocket can be more susceptible to damage during resizing if not done carefully. However, this risk is minimal with proper technique and equipment.
Sourcing 22-250 Small Primer Brass
High-quality brass is the foundation of successful reloading. You have several options for obtaining 22-250 small primer brass:
- New Brass: Purchasing new brass from reputable manufacturers like Starline, Norma, or Lapua ensures consistency and quality. This is the most expensive option but offers the longest lifespan.
- Once-Fired Brass: Buying once-fired brass from online retailers or at shooting ranges is a cost-effective alternative. Inspect it carefully for damage before purchasing.
- Recycling/Repurposing: Experienced reloaders often resize and repurpose their own brass, extending its lifespan significantly. This is an environmentally friendly and economical approach.
Preparing 22-250 Small Primer Brass for Reloading
Before you can load your 22-250 small primer brass, several preparatory steps are crucial:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the brass to remove any residue from previous firings. This prevents contamination and ensures consistent results. Use a quality brass cleaning solution and a suitable tumbler.
- Inspection: Carefully inspect each case for dents, cracks, or other damage. Discard any damaged brass.
- Sizing: Resize the brass using a properly adjusted resizing die to ensure proper headspace and consistent chambering. This is critical for safe and accurate reloading.
- Trimming: Trim cases to the correct length to maintain consistent cartridge overall length (COL). Inconsistent case lengths can lead to accuracy problems.
- Deburring: Deburr the case mouths and flash holes to remove any sharp edges that can damage your reloading dies or cause problems during priming.
Optimal Use of 22-250 Small Primer Brass
The specific powder, bullet, and primer combination you choose will significantly affect your results. Experimentation is key to finding the best load for your specific rifle. Here's what to consider:
- Powder Selection: Choose a powder appropriate for your bullet weight and desired velocity. Consult reloading manuals for safe load data. Popular powders for the 22-250 include Varget, IMR 4064, and H335.
- Bullet Selection: Select bullets that match your intended use. Varmints typically call for lighter bullets (e.g., 40-55 grain), whereas longer-range shooting might benefit from heavier bullets (e.g., 60-70 grain).
- Primer Selection: While we're focused on small rifle primers, choose a quality brand known for reliable ignition. CCI, Federal, and Winchester are popular choices.
- Chronograph Testing: After developing a load, use a chronograph to measure velocity and ensure consistency. This is crucial for safe and accurate shooting.
Case Studies & Data (Illustrative – Replace with actual data)
| Powder | Bullet Weight (gr) | Velocity (fps) (Approximate) | SD (fps) (Approximate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varget | 55 | 3200 | 15 | Accurate, low recoil |
| IMR 4064 | 50 | 3400 | 20 | Higher velocity, more recoil |
| H335 | 40 | 3600 | 25 | Very high velocity, potential for increased wear |
(Note: This table is illustrative and should not be used for actual reloading. Always consult a reputable reloading manual for safe load data.)
Conclusion
Choosing and preparing 22-250 small primer brass correctly is essential for achieving optimal accuracy and performance with your .22-250 Remington. By carefully selecting your brass, performing thorough cleaning and preparation, and selecting the correct components and powder charges, you can ensure consistent and safe reloading for your shooting endeavors. Remember to always consult reloading manuals and prioritize safety.