The 350 Legend cartridge, with its potent performance and manageable recoil, has quickly gained popularity among shooters. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or just starting, understanding the nuances of reloading this cartridge is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy and consistent results. This comprehensive guide delves into the essential aspects of reloading 350 Legend ammunition, covering everything from choosing components to mastering the reloading process.
Choosing Your Components: The Foundation of Success
Selecting high-quality components is paramount for safe and reliable reloading. Cutting corners here can lead to inconsistent performance and potentially dangerous malfunctions. Let's examine the key components:
1. Cases: The Starting Point
Start with new, once-fired, or properly prepared brass cases. Inspect each case carefully for damage before using it. Significant damage, such as cracks or dents, should disqualify a case from use. Several reputable manufacturers produce 350 Legend brass, ensuring consistent quality and performance.
2. Primers: Igniting the Charge
Small rifle primers are the standard for 350 Legend. Using the correct primer type is non-negotiable for reliable ignition and consistent performance. Choose primers from trusted manufacturers known for their quality and reliability.
3. Powder: The Driving Force
Selecting the right powder is crucial for achieving the desired velocity and pressure within safe operating parameters. Consult reloading manuals specific to the 350 Legend cartridge for recommended powder types and charges. Always adhere to the manufacturer's load data; never exceed recommended maximum charges. Common powders used in 350 Legend loads often include Hodgdon's CFE BLK, Accurate Arms #9, and others.
4. Bullets: Achieving Accuracy
Bullet selection significantly impacts accuracy and performance. The 350 Legend performs well with a variety of bullet weights and designs, ranging from lighter, faster projectiles for varmints to heavier bullets for larger game. Consider the intended use of your ammunition when selecting bullet weight and type. Common bullet weights range from 147 grains to 180 grains, and bullet profiles may include flat-nosed, round-nosed, and hollow point designs.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you've gathered your components, follow these steps for safe and efficient reloading:
1. Case Preparation: Ensuring Consistency
Begin by cleaning and inspecting the brass cases. Remove any debris or residue from previous firings. Deburring the case mouths and flash holes will improve case life and feeding reliability. Sizing the cases ensures they are the correct dimensions for consistent loading. This process is typically done with a reloading press and appropriate sizing die.
2. Primer Seating: A Precise Operation
Using a primer seating tool, carefully seat the primers into the prepared cases. Ensure the primers are seated firmly but without excessive force. A poorly seated primer can lead to misfires or dangerous malfunctions.
3. Powder Charging: Accuracy is Key
Use a powder measure to dispense the precise amount of powder recommended in your chosen load data. Double-check the powder charge in each case to prevent overcharging, which can be dangerous. Consistent powder charges are crucial for accurate and repeatable results.
4. Bullet Seating: Ensuring Proper Alignment
Seat the bullets to the proper depth as specified in your reloading manual. Ensure the bullet is properly seated and aligned to prevent bullet deformation or inconsistent chambering. Use a bullet seating die on your press to ensure consistent bullet seating depth.
5. Crimping: Securing the Cartridge
Finally, crimp the case mouth to securely hold the bullet in place. Proper crimping prevents the bullet from moving during handling or firing. Over-crimping can damage the case, while under-crimping can lead to bullets becoming loose in the case.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Reloading ammunition carries inherent risks. Always prioritize safety:
- Consult reloading manuals: Never deviate from established loading data.
- Wear safety glasses: Eye protection is paramount to prevent injury from powder explosions or flying debris.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gunpowder fumes can be dangerous.
- Clean your workspace: Keep your reloading area clean and organized to avoid accidents.
- Store ammunition properly: Store reloaded ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Reloading 350 Legend ammunition offers significant cost savings and allows for precise customization of your ammunition. However, remember that safety should always be your top priority. Following these guidelines and using reliable components will ensure safe and successful reloading. Always refer to the manufacturer's load data for precise details.
