Reloading your own ammunition can save money and give you better control over your shooting performance. If you’re using a .223 or 5.56 caliber rifle, one of the best ways to get started is by buying once fired brass. But not all once fired brass is the same.
Choosing good quality brass is important for safety, accuracy, and reloading success. In this article, we’ll go over five easy tips to help you pick the best .223/5.56 once fired brass.
1. Know the Difference Between .223 and 5.56
First, it’s important to know that .223 and 5.56 are very similar, but not exactly the same. The 5.56 NATO round is usually loaded to higher pressure and has slightly different chamber measurements. However, once fired brass from either can usually be used for reloading if prepared properly.
Just make sure you use the correct dies and check for pressure signs when you reload. It’s okay to mix them, but for best results, some reloaders prefer to sort them by headstamp and caliber.
2. Check the Condition of the Brass
Before buying, always check the condition of the brass. Good .223/5.56 once fired brass should not be cracked, crushed, or badly deformed. A little dirt or tarnish is okay because it can be cleaned. However, if the necks are split or the case body is damaged, that brass should not be reused.
Look for sellers who inspect their brass before selling it or who mention that the brass has been machine-sorted or visually checked.
3. Watch Out for Crimped Primers
Military 5.56 brass often has crimped primers, which means the primer pocket has a small ring around it that holds the primer in place. This crimp needs to be removed before you can insert a new primer. It’s not hard to do, but it adds an extra step.
If you’re just starting out or want to save time, look for brass that has already had the primer pockets swaged or reamed. Sellers will often note this in the product description.
4. Look for Clean Brass
While you can clean brass yourself at home, it’s nice to buy brass that’s already clean. Some sellers tumble their .223/5.56 once fired brass so it’s shiny and ready for reloading. Clean brass saves time and lets you better inspect for any damage.
If it’s polished or wet-tumbled with stainless steel media, that’s even better because it will usually look like new.
5. Buy .223/5.56 ONCE FIRED BRASS for sale from Trusted Sellers
There are lots of places online that offer .223/5.56 ONCE FIRED BRASS for sale, but it’s best to buy from sellers with good reviews and clear product descriptions. A trusted seller will tell you how many times the brass was fired, what kind of source it came from (military, police, range pickups), and if the primer pockets were cleaned.
When you search for .223/5.56 once fired brass for sale, look for suppliers who stand behind their product and offer returns if needed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right once fired brass makes a big difference in your reloading experience. By checking the condition, understanding primer crimps, and buying from trusted sellers, you can make sure your reloading process is safe and smooth.
Always keep an eye out for .223/5.56 once fired brass for sale from reliable sources so you can get great quality at a good price. With these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to reloading like a pro.