Author Topic: Brass Forming (Read 413 times)

Patriot_1776 · « **on:** October 30, 2005, 01:33:31 PM »

I have a pile of 30-06 brass that has not been used in over a year, still a sealed bag as a matter of fact. I recently got a rifle chambered in 8mm Mauser, and to save some money on brass, is it possible to reform 30-06 brass into 8mm Mauser? I figured it would be possible by simply trimming the brass to proper length, then run it through a FL sizing die. But I wanted to make sure it would not cause problems with case capacity, pressure issues, or case dimension differences. Is it possible to make 'em?

I've not been shooting my 30-06 rifle anytime recently, so I'm not too concerned with the idea of reforming the brass or having headstamps different from the round actually being made. If it would be too much trouble to make them, or too much to worry about with case thickness/dimensions, then I'll just buy actual 8mm brass. Thanks for any input.

-Patriot

Mac11700 · « **Reply #1 on:** October 31, 2005, 03:47:37 AM »

If it's a 8x57 Mauser..you can..Taper expand the 06' case to .325"-.330" diameter.Run the case into a 8.57 die with the expander removed(this will set the shoulder back)Trim to 2.24" and full lenght size with the expander in place.
From Handloaders Manual of Cartridge Conversions....by...J Donnelley and B Townsley...pg 511)

Mac

Patriot_1776 · « **Reply #2 on:** October 31, 2005, 07:38:31 AM »

Great, thats good to hear! Another thing, what exactly do I "taper expand" the '06 cases with? I just want to ask so I won't ruin anything. Also, is there any need to anneal afterwards or any other case preparations besides those already covered?

-Patriot

John Traveler1 · « **Reply #3 on:** October 31, 2005, 09:57:31 PM »

You "taper expand" your case mouths to the larger size using a modified expander plug. I modified a .30 US M1 Carbine expander plug by turning the thick portion to .375" diameter on a lathe to expand .30-30 cases to .38-55.

The expander plug can be turned on a lathe, or even on a drill press or electric drill motor using a mill file. Just cut and measure until it is the right size, polish smooth with emery cloth, and use.

Case mouth annealing is a good idea, but probably not mandatory for going from .308" to .323".

Nobade · « **Reply #4 on:** November 01, 2005, 02:40:17 AM »

The way I do these is to use a Redding form/trim die for 8X57. Run the '06 case in all the way, saw off what sticks out, deburr, run into the 8X57 full length die, trim to length, and you're done. I like to use a fine tooth hacksaw to cut the cases off, it's quick and easy.