Cleaning brass casings is a crucial part of the reloading process. Dirty brass can lead to malfunctions and inconsistent performance. While dry tumbling offers a convenient option, wet tumbling provides a superior clean, removing even the most stubborn fouling and corrosion. This comprehensive guide dives deep into wet tumblers for reloading, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and how to use them effectively.
Understanding Wet Tumbling
Wet tumbling uses a rotating container filled with brass casings, cleaning media (usually corncob media), water, and a cleaning solution. The tumbling action scrubs the brass clean, while the solution dissolves dirt and grime. This process is far more effective than dry tumbling at removing carbon build-up, powder residue, and even stubborn corrosion.
Advantages of Wet Tumblers
- Superior Cleaning: Wet tumbling consistently delivers cleaner brass than dry tumbling. It's especially effective at removing deeply embedded carbon and other contaminants.
- Removes Corrosion: Wet tumbling solutions can actively combat corrosion, extending the life of your brass.
- Handles Larger Volumes: Wet tumblers can typically handle a larger volume of brass than dry tumblers in a single cycle.
- Improved Lube Removal: Wet tumbling helps remove residual case lube, essential for consistent resizing.
Disadvantages of Wet Tumblers
- More Messy: Wet tumbling involves water and cleaning solutions, requiring careful cleanup.
- Longer Process: Wet tumbling typically takes longer than dry tumbling to complete a cleaning cycle.
- Initial Investment: Wet tumblers usually have a higher upfront cost compared to dry tumblers.
- Requires Proper Disposal: Used cleaning solutions and media require proper disposal to avoid environmental issues.
Choosing the Right Wet Tumbler
The market offers a variety of wet tumblers, each with its own features and price point. Key factors to consider include:
- Capacity: Consider the volume of brass you typically clean. Larger tumblers handle more brass but require more space and use more cleaning solution.
- Motor Power: A more powerful motor ensures efficient tumbling and thorough cleaning.
- Noise Level: Some tumblers are quieter than others. Consider the noise level if you plan to use it in a shared space.
- Features: Some models offer features like automatic shutoff, adjustable timer settings, and different cleaning media options.
Popular Wet Tumbler Brands and Models
Several reputable brands offer high-quality wet tumblers:
- Frankford Arsenal: Known for their robust and reliable designs.
- Thumler's: A long-standing brand with a wide selection of models.
- Vibratory Finishing Equipment: Offer industrial-grade tumblers for high-volume cleaning.
(Note: Specific model recommendations should be based on individual needs and budget. Research reviews before purchasing.)
The Wet Tumbling Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparation:
- Gather your supplies: Wet tumbler, brass casings, cleaning media (corncob or plastic), cleaning solution (e.g., Lemi Shine, Simple Green), water, and a suitable container for drying.
- Sort and inspect your brass: Remove any severely damaged or deformed cases.
2. Loading the Tumbler:
- Add cleaning media: Fill the tumbler about half full with your chosen cleaning media.
- Add brass: Carefully add your brass casings to the tumbler.
- Add cleaning solution: Add your chosen cleaning solution according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Add water: Add enough water to adequately cover the brass and media.
3. Tumbling:
- Start the tumbler: Run the tumbler for the recommended time (usually 2-4 hours). Experiment to find the optimal time for your setup.
4. Post-Tumbling:
- Drain and rinse: Carefully drain the cleaning solution and rinse the brass thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry the brass: Allow the brass to air dry completely, or use a towel to dry them.
5. Final Inspection:
- Inspect the brass for any remaining dirt or debris. If necessary, repeat the process or manually clean any stubborn spots.
Table: Comparing Different Wet Tumbling Media
| Media Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Corncob | Biodegradable, relatively inexpensive | Can break down, may require more frequent changes |
| Plastic (pins) | Durable, long-lasting | Can scratch brass if used aggressively |
| Stainless Steel | Very durable, long-lasting | More expensive, can scratch brass if too aggressive |
Safety Precautions
- Always wear safety glasses: Prevent accidental eye injury from splashing cleaning solution.
- Use proper ventilation: Some cleaning solutions can produce fumes. Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Dispose of cleaning solution and media properly: Follow local regulations for disposal of used materials.
Case Study: Improving Brass Cleaning Efficiency
A competitive shooter experienced inconsistent results due to inconsistently cleaned brass. After switching to wet tumbling with a Frankford Arsenal tumbler and Lemi Shine solution, he reported a significant improvement in accuracy and reliability. He noted the superior cleaning ability of wet tumbling removed more embedded carbon and improved the overall quality of his reloaded ammunition.
Conclusion
Wet tumbling offers significant advantages over dry tumbling, particularly regarding cleaning power and corrosion removal. While requiring a larger initial investment and more careful cleanup, the superior results justify the effort for serious reloaders. By carefully selecting the right tumbler, media, and cleaning solution, you can significantly improve the quality and consistency of your reloaded ammunition. Remember to always prioritize safety and proper disposal of used materials.