Reloading your own ammunition isn’t just a hobby—it’s an art form. For those who use the 35 Remington, selecting the right brass can make all the difference between a smooth reload and a frustrating experience. But how do you know which brass is the best for your needs? This guide will break it all down for you, step by step, so you can maximize your reloading efficiency and get the most out of your 35 Remington rifle.
Understanding 35 Remington Brass
Before we dive into the specifics of choosing the best brass, let’s take a moment to understand what makes the 35 Remington cartridge so special. First introduced in the early 20th century, the 35 remington brass was designed as a powerful round for medium to large game hunting. Its popularity has endured, particularly among lever-action rifle enthusiasts.
Though not as commonly used as some modern calibers, the 35 Remington continues to be a favorite for those who appreciate its unique blend of power and performance. That’s why getting the right brass is essential for reloading enthusiasts who want to keep their cartridges in top shape.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Brass
Selecting the right brass isn’t just about grabbing the first box you see. There are several factors that will determine the quality and longevity of your brass, each of which plays a critical role in your reloading success.
Material Quality
The quality of the brass itself is paramount. Brass with higher copper content is generally more malleable and durable, while brass with lower copper content may become brittle over time. Always opt for high-quality brass from reputable manufacturers to ensure longevity.
Durability and Longevity
Durability refers to how well the brass holds up over multiple reloads. If you’re planning on reloading your cartridges many times, you’ll want brass that can stand up to repeated resizing and firing without cracking or deforming.
Case Capacity and Consistency
Uniformity is key when it comes to reloading. Brass with consistent case capacities ensures that each cartridge will perform the same way, shot after shot. Inconsistent brass can lead to varying pressures and, ultimately, inconsistent accuracy.
Primer Pocket Quality
The primer pocket is the heart of your brass. If it’s not machined correctly, or if it deforms over time, you’re going to have issues seating primers properly. This is another reason why high-quality brass is worth the investment.
Headstamp Clarity
While headstamp clarity might seem like a minor detail, it’s actually quite important. Clear headstamps make it easier to identify your brass and ensure that you’re reloading the correct caliber.
Top Brands for 35 Remington Brass
Now that we know what to look for in brass, let’s explore some of the top brands offering 35 Remington brass. Each of these manufacturers has its own strengths, so it’s worth taking the time to understand what each one brings to the table.
Remington
Remington is a well-known name in the ammunition world, and for good reason. Their brass is known for its consistency and durability. Remington brass is often the go-to for those who prefer to stick with the original manufacturer.
Hornady
Hornady is another top player in the reloading world. Their 35 Remington brass is highly regarded for its precise manufacturing and excellent performance. Many reloaders find Hornady brass to be a step up in quality, especially for those who demand top-tier performance.
Starline
Starline is often considered the gold standard for reloading brass. Known for their stringent quality control and excellent materials, Starline brass is a favorite among experienced reloaders who prioritize consistency and longevity.
Remington 35 Brass Overview
When it comes to Remington’s own brass, the quality is generally good, but there can be some variability. Some reloaders report that the brass can be slightly softer than other brands, which may lead to a shorter lifespan. However, many others have had great success with Remington brass, praising its reliability and availability.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Widely available, reliable, good quality for the price.
- Cons: Some users report a slightly shorter lifespan compared to other brands.
User Reviews
Users generally praise Remington brass for its reliability and affordability, making it a solid choice for reloaders on a budget. However, more advanced reloaders may opt for other brands if they require brass that can handle multiple reloads without issues.
Hornady 35 Remington Brass Overview
Hornady’s 35 Remington brass is known for its precision and consistency. Hornady has a reputation for producing top-notch reloading components, and their brass is no exception. It’s slightly more expensive than some other options, but many reloaders feel that the investment is worth it for the added performance.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Precision manufacturing, consistent case capacity, excellent quality.
- Cons: Higher price point.
User Reviews
Hornady brass is frequently praised for its high quality and consistency. Many reloaders find that it outperforms other brands, especially when it comes to longevity and accuracy.
Starline 35 Remington Brass Overview
Starline is known for its exceptional brass, and their 35 Remington offering is no different. Many experienced reloaders consider Starline to be the best choice for those who want to maximize their reloading efficiency. Starline brass tends to be more expensive, but it often outlasts the competition in terms of durability and consistency.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: High durability, excellent consistency, long lifespan.
- Cons: Higher price compared to other brands.
User Reviews
Starline brass receives glowing reviews for its durability and consistency. Users who prioritize quality over cost often choose Starline, particularly for high-volume reloading where longevity is crucial.
Tips for Maximizing Reloading Efficiency
Maximizing your reloading efficiency isn’t just about choosing the right brass—it’s about how you treat that brass throughout the reloading process. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your 35 Remington brass.
Proper Cleaning and Maintenance of Brass
One of the easiest ways to ensure that your brass lasts as long as possible is to clean it properly. Whether you use a tumbler, ultrasonic cleaner, or hand-cleaning methods, keeping your brass free from dirt and debris will prevent damage during resizing and reloading.