TIP 1.
I know of few handloaders who anneal their cartridge cases prior to reloading. Case life can be extended many times by proper neck annealing.
When should I start annealing cases?
Usually when a few fired rounds have cracked necks. The purpose of annealing is to soften the case necks slightly and stop them splitting.
How is annealing carried out?
The usual method is to stand cases in a shallow tray of water (about 2/3’s of the case is submerged) and apply a gas torch flame in a rotary motion around each neck until they are heated to a cherry red colour. Then tip the case over into the water.
Another method is to use a lead melting pot set to 216 degrees Celsius. With the lead melted and in its fluid state, pick up each case by the head, dip the mouth and shoulder in light oil, then immerse the neck and shoulder in molten lead for 5 to 6 seconds. Pull the case out quickly and give it a quick flick to remove any lead clinging to the inside. Then drop the case in cold water. That’s it!
