Reloading ammunition has become a popular hobby nowadays. From something that was only performed by experts to now being a hobby of many shooting enthusiasts, ammo reloading practice has transformed over the years. And why wouldn’t it be? This allows shooters to save truckloads of money, helps them work as per their preferences, and, most importantly, gives better accuracy.
While there are many things that are important in reloading, like primer for 223, primer pocket, reloading dies, and many more. But one essential tool in the reloading process that we can’t miss out on is the decapping tool, especially for primers. However, using this tool improperly can result in some big mistakes and sometimes safety hazards, too. Today, in this blog, we are going to discuss some common mistakes that people make while decapping.
Mistakes To Avoid When Using The Tool For Decapping:
Failing To Wear Safety Glasses
When it comes to reloading, safety should be your first priority. One common mistake people make is neglecting to wear safety glasses while using a decapping tool. Decapping involves removing the spent primers, which can potentially cause small metal fragments or debris to fly off. These little fragments can injure your eyes if you are not wearing the proper gear for eye protection. Hence, it is essential to wear safety glasses or goggles every time you are performing the decapping process.
Using Improperly Sized Decapping Pin
If you are an enthusiast, then you probably know that decapping pins come in various sizes. That’s because the different sizes accommodate different calibers and primer types. Using an improperly sized decapping pin can lead to issues such as bent or broken pins. This can render the tool useless. When working specifically with primers, it’s important to ensure that you use the correct size decapping pins for the specific primer to avoid any future complications in reloading.
Insufficient Lubrication of The Cases
Another common mistake individuals make is failing to give sufficient lubrication to the cases before decapping. Lubrication is imperative to ensure smooth and effortless decapping. People fail to understand that without proper lubrication to the cases, the decapping pin can get stuck or cause excessive friction. This results in damaged cases or broken pins. Therefore, it’s important to apply an appropriate amount of case lubricant before using this tool.
Applying Excessive Force
You might not know, but using excessive force when decapping can lead to some serious issues. Some of them include broken pins, damaged cases, and misaligned primer pockets. Decapping is a process that requires a controlled and gentle motion that people often don’t follow. They apply too much force, which leads to the pen bending or snapping. As a result, it damaged both the tool and the case as well. So, take your time and learn to apply a steady, moderate amount of force to avoid these problems.
Not Inspecting Cases For Obstructions
Another common mistake most reloaders make is neglecting to inspect the cases for any obstructions. Before decapping, it’s very important to inspect each case for any obstructions that may impede the decapping process. With obstructions, we mean dirt, debris, or remnants of the previous primer. All these things can cause the pin to get stuck or break when in use. Therefore, it is very important to inspect each case very carefully and remove any obstructions before proceeding with the decapping process.
Overusing or Neglecting Maintenance
Like any tool, a decapping tool also requires regular maintenance if you want to ensure optimal performance. Over time, the debris and residue from the dies accumulate on the decapping pin, which affects its ability to function properly. As a result, you will not find better efficiency and accuracy. You must regularly clean and inspect the decapping tool, paying close attention to the pin and ensuring it moves smoothly. Overusing a worn-out tool can lead to inconsistent results and potential safety issues. Keep an eye on the condition of your decapping tool and replace any worn or damaged parts promptly.
Final Words!
You can ensure a smooth and efficient reloading process by avoiding these common mistakes when using a decapping tool. Properly decapped cases are crucial for producing high-quality ammunition, especially when working with primer for 223. Remember to prioritize safety, use the correct tools and techniques, and maintain your decapping tool for optimal performance.
Arman Ali, respects both business and technology. He enjoys writing about new business and technical developments. He has previously written content for numerous SaaS and IT organizations. He also enjoys reading about emerging technical trends and advances.
