The .35 Remington, a classic cartridge known for its power and versatility, remains a favorite among hunters and shooters. While factory ammunition offers convenience, reloading your own .35 Remington ammunition presents significant advantages: cost savings, the ability to tailor loads to your specific firearm, and the satisfaction of crafting your own precision rounds. This guide explores the essentials of .35 Remington reloading, covering safety, components, and techniques to help you achieve optimal accuracy and performance.
Understanding .35 Remington Reloading Components
Before diving into the process, let's familiarize ourselves with the key components:
- Cases: Properly prepared cases are crucial. This includes cleaning, resizing, and trimming to ensure consistent chambering and reliable ignition. Inspect each case for cracks or damage before use.
- Powder: Choosing the right powder is critical for both safety and performance. Consult your reloading manual for recommended powder types and charges for your specific bullet weight and firearm. Never exceed the maximum recommended charge. Common powders for the .35 Remington include IMR-4198, IMR-4895, and H4895.
- Primers: Small rifle primers are typically used in .35 Remington reloading. Use primers specifically designed for rifle cartridges. Handle primers with care to avoid accidental detonation.
- Bullets: A variety of bullet weights and designs are available for the .35 Remington, ranging from 150 grains to 250 grains. The choice of bullet will depend on your intended use, whether hunting deer or target shooting. Consider bullet construction (jacketed, soft point, etc.) based on your needs.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Reloading involves several precise steps. Accuracy and safety are paramount at every stage.
- Case Preparation: Clean, resize, and trim your cases to uniform length. This ensures consistent performance and prevents problems in your firearm.
- Powder Measurement: Use a precise powder measure to dispense the correct powder charge according to your chosen load data. Double-check each charge to ensure accuracy. Inconsistencies in powder charge can lead to dangerous pressure spikes.
- Primer Seating: Carefully seat primers using a primer seating tool. Avoid damaging the primer cups.
- Bullet Seating: Seat bullets to the correct depth using a bullet seating die. Consistent bullet seating depth ensures accuracy and consistent bullet performance.
- Crimping: Crimp the case mouth to secure the bullet and prevent it from moving during recoil.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Reloading is inherently dangerous if not handled properly. Always prioritize safety:
- Consult a Reloading Manual: Use a reliable reloading manual specifically for the .35 Remington cartridge. Follow the recommended load data precisely.
- Wear Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection: Protect your eyes and ears from potential hazards.
- Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Gunpowder produces fumes; ensure proper ventilation.
- Never Exceed Maximum Recommended Loads: Overloading cartridges can lead to catastrophic firearm failure.
- Store Ammunition Properly: Store loaded ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets.
Finding the Right Load for Your Rifle
Experimentation is part of the process. Once you've mastered the basics, you can fine-tune your loads to optimize accuracy and performance. Start with the minimum recommended load from your manual and gradually increase the charge, carefully recording your results. Pay close attention to your firearm's behavior. Excessive recoil or unusual sounds could indicate a problem with your load.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Rewards of Reloading
Reloading your own .35 Remington ammunition offers significant benefits, from cost savings to the ability to create custom loads precisely tailored to your needs. However, remember that safety is paramount. By following these steps and exercising caution, you can safely and effectively reload your own ammunition and enjoy the rewards of superior accuracy and performance. Remember to always consult your reloading manual and adhere to its guidelines for safe and successful reloading.
