How to Fix Dented Rifle Cases

Unfortunately, this cartridge case cannot be saved.

One of the difficulties of reloading ammo for autoloading rifles is their tendency to dent the fired cases during the trip out of the ejection port. Then, of course, there is the fact that you must chase the cases down to where they have been scattered all over the ground, perhaps stepping on a few in the process.
Fortunately, you don't have to throw those dented cases away. The soft brass is easy to repair during the course of reloading.

Things You'll Need

• Needle-nose pliers
• Reloading dies, including full-length sizer
• Case lube
• Lube pad
• Clean cloth

Instructions

1. Open the mouth of the case with the needle-nose pliers. Get both points inside and twist them around to make the case mouth as round as possible.

2. Roll the dented cases on a well-lubed pad. Make sure to get some lube in the mouth of the case, too.

3. Adjust the sizing die to full-length size the cases. To do this, fully raise the ram on your press, thread the die in until it contacts the shellholder, then lower the ram and screw the die in an additional quarter turn. This may not make them look perfect but it will ensure that they will chamber properly.

4. Reload the cases. When you fire them again, any remaining dents will disappear as the cases are fireformed.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear eye protection when reloading.

• Inspect all cases for splits and hairline cracks and discard any you find with such damage.

References

• The ABC's Of Reloading; Dean A. Grennell; 1974