Ugly Annealer Derraco - A reliable gas annealer with hopper system
The Ugly Annealer from Derraco Engineering is a robust gas-powered brass annealer that makes case annealing accessible to every reloader. Unlike simple manual methods, this machine features an automatic hopper system that allows continuous case feeding without loading each case individually. This makes the annealing process not only faster but significantly more consistent.
The housing is manufactured from #201 stainless steel, a material that withstands the heat generated during annealing and provides years of reliable service. The transparent front panel is not cheap acrylic but impact-resistant polycarbonate. This material is nearly bulletproof and costs three times as much as standard plastic. The reasoning behind this choice is straightforward: durability. The acrylic prototype broke when dropped, while this machine survives such impacts without issue.
Caliber flexibility without additional costs
What sets the Ugly Annealer apart from many competitors is the complete set of CNC-machined caliber inserts included as standard. You receive five conversion inserts for the most common caliber families: .223 Remington, 7.62x39mm, .308 Winchester, .300 Win Mag, and .338 Lapua Magnum. For .50 BMG cases, simply use the machine without any insert. This prepares you for virtually any caliber you might want to reload, from compact .223 cases to larger magnum cartridges.
The minimal clearance in the inserts ensures the flame distributes evenly around the case neck. This results in uniform heat distribution and prevents hot spots that can occur with less precisely manufactured annealers.
Rotation wheels built to last
The included aluminum rotation wheels are heat resistant and coated with nickel containing natural diamond grit. This coating functions as a permanent non-slip surface, ensuring cases rotate reliably and at constant speed through the flame zone. You receive two wheel sizes: 15mm and 25mm. The thinner wheel is ideal for short cases like 6mm BR or .300 Blackout, while the 25mm wheel suits most standard rifle cases.
Adjustable torch holder
The CNC-machined torch holder is compatible with common gas pencil torches with an outer diameter of 12.70mm to 13.0mm. This includes most commercially available soldering torches such as those from Bernzomatic. The clamp is easily adjustable, allowing you to position the flame precisely relative to the case neck.
Practical use
After initial setup, operating the Ugly Annealer is straightforward. Fill the hopper with cases of the same caliber, select the appropriate insert, set the rotation speed based on your caliber and brass type, and let the machine do its work. The digital speed controller with LED readout makes it easy to find and replicate the correct heating time.
For optimal results, you can use temperature indicators like Tempilaq to verify you are reaching the correct annealing temperature. Once dialed in for a particular caliber, you only need to adjust the speed when switching to different brass types or calibers.
Specifications
- Housing material: #201 stainless steel
- Front panel: Impact-resistant polycarbonate
- Included caliber inserts: 5 pieces (.223 Rem, 7.62x39mm, .308 Win, .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua Mag)
- .50 BMG: Compatible without insert
- Rotation wheels: 2 pieces (15mm and 25mm), aluminum with nickel-diamond coating
- Torch holder: CNC-machined, compatible with OD 12.70mm-13.0mm torches
- Motor lifespan: Minimum 300,000 cases or 500 hours runtime
- Included: Allen key set, spare parts, universal gas bottle holder, brass ramp, accessory pouch, user manual, power adapter
- Not included: Gas torch and gas cylinder (available separately or as bundle)
- Manufacturer: Derraco Engineering (Australia)
