The .460 S&W is a formidable cartridge, known for its sheer power and stopping capability. Reloading your own .460 S&W ammunition offers significant advantages, from cost savings to the ability to tailor loads to your specific firearm and shooting style. However, it's crucial to understand the safety precautions and precise techniques involved before embarking on this endeavor. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of reloading .460 S&W bullets, focusing on safety, precision, and best practices.
Safety First: Essential Precautions for .460 S&W Reloading
Before even considering the reloading process, prioritize safety. The .460 S&W is a high-pressure cartridge, and any mistakes can lead to catastrophic consequences. Here's a non-exhaustive list of safety essentials:
- Proper Eye and Hearing Protection: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection. The recoil from a .460 S&W is substantial, and the noise levels are equally significant.
- Clean Workspace: Maintain a clean and organized reloading bench. Stray powder or bullet components can lead to malfunctions.
- Accurate Scales and Measures: Invest in high-quality reloading scales and measures capable of precise measurements. Inconsistent powder charges are a major safety risk.
- Understand Your Equipment: Thoroughly understand the operation and limitations of your reloading press, dies, and other equipment before you begin.
- Start Low, Work Up: When developing loads, begin with minimum charge weights recommended by reputable sources like the bullet manufacturer and gradually increase charges while carefully monitoring pressure signs. Never exceed maximum recommended loads.
- Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your equipment, dies, and cases for damage or wear.
- Consult Manuals: Always refer to the reloading manuals provided by your powder manufacturer and bullet manufacturer. These manuals are your primary source of information for safe and effective reloading.
Choosing Your Components: Bullets, Powder, and Primers
Selecting the right components is paramount for safe and effective reloading.
Bullets:
The .460 S&W accommodates a wide range of bullet weights and styles, from jacketed hollow points for self-defense to heavier, full-metal-jacket rounds for hunting. Consider the intended purpose of your ammunition when selecting bullets. Pay close attention to the bullet's overall length to ensure proper seating in the case.
Powder:
Choosing the right powder is critical. Use only powders specifically recommended for the .460 S&W cartridge in your reloading manual. Incorrect powder selection can lead to dangerous pressure spikes. Popular choices often include slow-burning powders designed for high-pressure cartridges.
Primers:
Large rifle primers are typically used for .460 S&W reloading. Use only primers that are specifically designed for rifle cartridges and are compatible with your chosen powder.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The specific steps may vary slightly depending on your reloading press and dies, but the general process remains consistent:
- Case Preparation: Clean, deprime, and resize your cases. Ensure they are free from any debris or damage.
- Powder Charging: Accurately measure and charge the correct amount of powder into each case. Double-check each charge to avoid errors.
- Seating Primers: Carefully seat the primers using a primer seating tool.
- Bullet Seating: Carefully seat and crimp the bullet using the appropriate die. Ensure the bullet is seated firmly and squarely.
- Inspection: Thoroughly inspect each completed round for defects.
Developing Your Own Loads: A Cautious Approach
Developing custom loads is a rewarding aspect of reloading, but it requires meticulous attention to detail and a cautious approach. Begin with the minimum recommended load data and gradually increase charge weights, meticulously documenting your results, including pressure signs and accuracy. Always consult reloading manuals and pay close attention to pressure signs such as flattened primers or excessively hard bolt lift.
Conclusion: Responsible Reloading for the .460 S&W
Reloading .460 S&W ammunition can be a rewarding and cost-effective practice, allowing you to customize your loads for specific applications. However, it demands unwavering attention to safety and precision. By diligently following safety guidelines, carefully selecting components, and meticulously following the reloading process, you can confidently and safely reload this powerful cartridge. Remember that safety should always be your paramount concern. If you have any doubts or uncertainties, seek guidance from experienced reloaders before proceeding.
