Save Money with Fire Forming Brass for Ackley Improved Cartridges

Save Money with Fire Forming Brass for Ackley Improved Cartridges

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Economics of Shooting Sports
3. Understanding Fire Forming Brass 3.1. Cream of Wheat Method
4. The Process of Fire Forming Brass 4.1. Choosing the Right Brass 4.2. Selecting the Powder and Filler 4.3. Chambering the Case 4.4. Packing and Sealing with Poly Fill
5. Overcoming Misfires and Case Movement 5.1. Creating a False Shoulder 5.2. Expanding and Sizing the Neck
6. The Benefits of the Ackley Improved Cartridges 6.1. Increased Case Capacity and Velocity 6.2. Minimizing Throat Erosion and Case Stretch
7. The Cost-Efficiency of Fire Forming
8. Field Testing the Fire Formed Cases
9. Conclusion

Introduction

Economics play a significant role in determining the affordability of shooting sports and hobbies. With the price of essential components like powder, primers, and bullets on the rise, many enthusiasts are exploring alternative methods to enjoy their favorite activities without breaking the bank. One such method is fire forming brass, particularly for Ackley Improved cartridges. In this article, we will Delve into the process of fire forming brass using the cream of wheat method, discuss the benefits of Ackley Improved cartridges, and highlight the cost-efficiency of fire forming. So, let's dive in and explore this fascinating technique.

The Economics of Shooting Sports

Shooting sports and hobbies have always been a passion for many individuals. However, in recent times, the cost of participating in these activities has seen a significant surge. The price of essential components like powder, primers, and bullets has skyrocketed, leading to increased expenses for shooters. This sudden surge in prices has been attributed to panic buying and supply chain disruptions. As a result, many enthusiasts are seeking cost-effective alternatives that allow them to Continue enjoying their shooting sports without draining their wallets.

Understanding Fire Forming Brass

3.1. Cream of Wheat Method

Fire forming brass is a technique used to Shape virgin brass to match the shoulder of a particular cartridge. One popular fire forming method is the cream of wheat method. In this method, a fast-burning powder, such as Unique Pistol Powder, is combined with an inert filler, which is cream of wheat. The cream of wheat helps keep the powder in place when chambering the case horizontally. To prevent spillage, a Poly fill, a filler commonly used for pillows, is used to pack the case. The poly fill effectively seals the contents, ensuring a secure fit.

The Process of Fire Forming Brass

4.1. Choosing the Right Brass

To begin the fire forming process, it is essential to select the appropriate brass. Virgin brass, such as Lapua 260 Remington brass, is commonly used. The chosen brass should have the desired Dimensions for the Ackley Improved cartridge, usually featuring a shoulder angle ranging from 40 to 42 degrees.

4.2. Selecting the Powder and Filler

A fast-burning powder, such as Unique Pistol Powder, is the preferred choice for the fire forming process. The cream of wheat acts as an inert filler, aiding in shaping the brass to match the Ackley Improved shoulder.

4.3. Chambering the Case

When chambering the case, it is important to remember that it will be turned horizontally to fit into the chamber. This position helps facilitate the fire forming process. The case should be carefully inserted to prevent spillage of the powder and cream of wheat.

4.4. Packing and Sealing with Poly Fill

To secure the powder and cream of wheat inside the case, a poly fill is used. The poly fill is packed on top of the cream of wheat, ensuring it stays in place. Any excess poly fill that sticks out can be carefully singed off using a lighter. This process effectively seals the contents, preparing the case for fire forming.

Overcoming Misfires and Case Movement

5.1. Creating a False Shoulder

During the fire forming process, misfires can occur when the firing Pin contacts the primer and moves the case forward in the chamber. To prevent this, a false shoulder is created. This false shoulder serves as a hard stop, preventing the case from moving forward when the firing pin strikes the primer. To create a false shoulder, an expanding die and an expanding mandrel can be used to size the neck of the case incrementally until it fits snugly in the chamber.

5.2. Expanding and Sizing the Neck

Using a bushing bump die with a suitable bushing, such as a 6.5mm (0.264 nominal) case neck sized to 7mm (0.284 nominal), the neck of the case is sized down. This step ensures that the case chambers properly in the rifle. By incrementally sizing the neck, the false shoulder is formed, preventing case movement during Ignition.

The Benefits of the Ackley Improved Cartridges

6.1. Increased Case Capacity and Velocity

The primary benefit of using Ackley Improved cartridges is the increased case capacity, which leads to higher velocity. By removing the body taper from the parent cartridge, Ackley Improved cartridges offer improved performance and ballistic characteristics. The relatively sharp or abrupt shoulder angle of Ackley Improved cartridges facilitates the efficient transfer of hot gases, resulting in increased Muzzle velocity.

6.2. Minimizing Throat Erosion and Case Stretch

Another AdVantage of Ackley Improved cartridges is the reduction in throat erosion and case stretch. The sharp shoulder of these cartridges helps mitigate the erosion caused by hot gases escaping through the throat. Additionally, Ackley Improved cartridges exhibit minimal case stretch, particularly with medium to mild loads. This characteristic allows shooters to reuse their brass for an extended period, translating to cost savings in the long run.

The Cost-Efficiency of Fire Forming

Fire forming brass using the cream of wheat method offers shooters a cost-effective solution. Instead of purchasing expensive ready-made cartridges, shooters can convert their existing brass to match the Ackley Improved specifications. By utilizing affordable components such as powder, cream of wheat, and poly fill, shooters can enjoy the benefits of upgraded cartridges without incurring substantial expenses.

Field Testing the Fire Formed Cases

To ensure the success of the fire forming process, field testing is essential. Field testing involves firing the fire-formed cases to observe their performance and confirm the accuracy of the shoulder formation. By shooting these cases, shooters can assess the sharpness of the shoulders and make any necessary adjustments before proceeding with reloading.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fire forming brass using the cream of wheat method and exploring the benefits of Ackley Improved cartridges offer shooters a cost-effective solution in an increasingly expensive shooting sports market. By understanding the process of fire forming, overcoming misfires and case movement, and appreciating the advantages of Ackley Improved cartridges, shooters can continue pursuing their hobbies without breaking the bank. So, next time You find yourself faced with rising prices, consider the economical and rewarding option of fire forming your brass for improved performance.

Highlights:

• Fire forming brass allows shooters to shape their brass to match the shoulder of a specific cartridge, such as the Ackley Improved.
• The cream of wheat method is a popular technique for fire forming, utilizing fast-burning powder, cream of wheat filler, and poly fill to securely pack and seal the case.
• Creating a false shoulder prevents misfires and case movement during ignition, ensuring successful fire forming.
• Ackley Improved cartridges offer increased case capacity, higher velocity, reduced throat erosion, and minimal case stretch, making them a desirable option for shooters.
• Fire forming brass is a cost-efficient alternative to purchasing expensive ready-made cartridges, providing both performance and savings.

FAQ:

Q: Can fire forming brass be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing cartridges? A: Yes, fire forming brass allows shooters to convert their existing brass to match a specific cartridge, such as the Ackley Improved, saving them from buying expensive ready-made cartridges.

Q: What is the cream of wheat method for fire forming brass? A: The cream of wheat method involves combining fast-burning powder with cream of wheat filler to shape the brass shoulder. This method is cost-effective and widely used among shooters.

Q: How can misfires and case movement be prevented during the fire forming process? A: Creating a false shoulder serves as a hard stop to prevent misfires and case movement. By incrementally sizing the neck of the case, the false shoulder is formed, ensuring a secure fit in the chamber.

Q: What are the benefits of using Ackley Improved cartridges? A: Ackley Improved cartridges offer increased case capacity, resulting in higher velocity. They also minimize throat erosion and case stretch, making them a desirable option for shooters.

Q: Is fire forming brass a suitable technique for cost-conscious shooters? A: Yes, fire forming brass provides cost-conscious shooters with an economical solution. By utilizing affordable components and converting existing brass, shooters can enjoy improved performance without breaking the bank.