Brass Annealing

Why annealing is crucial for serious reloading

Each time a shell is fired, the brass hardens through a process known as work-hardening. This hardening process occurs primarily in the case neck and shoulder, the parts that undergo the most deformation during the firing and reloading process. After several reloading cycles, the brass becomes so hard and rigid that it loses its flexibility and becomes prone to cracking.

Brass annealing solves this problem by restoring the crystal structure of the brass. Through controlled heating, the metal becomes softer and more flexible, regaining its original properties. This results in:

• Significantly longer life of your cases
• More consistent neck tension for better accuracy
• Reduced springback after sizing
• More even gas density
• More reliable projectile placement

For reloaders striving for maximum precision, annealing is not an option but a necessity. The process ensures more consistent ballistic performance and allows you to get more reloading cycles out of your shells before they need to be replaced.

Different annealing techniques and their benefits

Traditional annealing with burner

The traditional method of annealing sleeves uses a direct flame to heat the sleeve neck in a controlled manner. Derraco Engineering' s Ugly Annealer represents an advanced evolution of this traditional technique. This clever device rotates the sleeve through a flame zone for a precisely defined time, ensuring consistent results without risk of overheating.

The Ugly Annealer + Solder Burner and Gas Cylinder bundle offers a complete solution for reloaders who want to get started annealing right away. This bundle includes everything you need: the annealer itself, Bernzomatic' s UL2317 Soldering Burner and a TX9 Propane disposable cylinder from Bernzomatic. This combination ensures controlled, reliable heating of your sleeve necks.

Advantages of traditional annealing:

• Lower purchase cost compared to induction systems
• Simple operation without complex settings
• Visual feedback during the annealing process
• No electrical components that can fail
• Easy portability, ideal for use in different locations

Advanced induction annealing

For reloaders seeking the highest level of precision and control, induction annealers offer the ultimate solution. The Mark II DB Induction Annealer represents state-of-the-art technology in this field. Instead of a flame, this system uses electromagnetic induction to heat the case neck precisely and consistently, without risk of overheating.

The Vulcano induction Annealer offers similar advanced technology at a more accessible price. This system delivers precise, repeatable results with digital control over the annealing process.

To expand your induction-annealing capabilities, Pilot for the AMP Annealer are available, allowing you to process different cases sizes with optimal alignment and heat transfer.

Benefits of induction-annealing:

• Extremely precise temperature control
• Perfectly reproducible results
• No open flame, safer in use
• Programmable settings for different sleeve types
• Faster processing of large quantities of sleeves
• More even heat distribution across the sleeve neck

Proper use of annealers for optimal results

Important principles for successful annealing

Although annealing cases improves significantly, the process requires care and attention to detail. Here are the key principles for successful annealing:

• Consistency is critical - ensure identical heating time for all cases
• Focus on the case neck and avoid overheating the case bottom
• Start with clean, dry cases for best results
• Allow cases to cool completely after annealing
• Anneal cases preferably before sizing to gain maximum benefit
• Keep a log of annealing cycles per batch of tubes

Tips for different calibers and cartridge types

Different cases types and calibers respond differently to the annealing process:

• Smaller calibers (.223, 6mm) often benefit more from regular annealing
• Larger cores with thicker necks (.308, .30-06) may require longer heating times
• Nickel-plated sleeves have different heating characteristics than standard brass
• Premium match sleeves deserve extra care during the annealing process
• Military surplus sleeves (often already hardened by manufacturing processes) may particularly benefit from annealing

How do you choose the right annealer for your needs?

There are several factors to consider when selecting the right annealer:

• Budget: Traditional systems such as the Ugly Annealer offer excellent value, while induction systems such as the Mark II DB and Vulcano offer more advanced technology at a higher price point
• Volume: For larger quantities of tubes, induction systems often offer higher processing speeds
• Precision requirements: For benchrest, F-class and extreme long-range shooting, induction systems offer optimal consistency
• Versatility: Consider if you want to anneal different calibers and check compatibility
• Ease of use: Induction systems often offer more automation and programmable settings

Increase the performance and life of your ammunition with professional annealing

At Hop.com, we understand that annealing can be a game-changer for serious reloaders. By investing in quality cartridge annealing equipment, you'll not only improve the consistency and accuracy of your ammunition, but you'll also save in the long run by extending the life of your cartridges.

Whether you are a competition shooter striving for sub-MOA precision, a hunter who needs reliable ammunition in all conditions, or an enthusiastic reloader who wants to get the most out of his reloading process - we have the annealing equipment to fit your specific needs and budget.

Browse our range of annealers and accessories, and make the move to professionally annealed shells for superior ammunition performance.