Case annealing, Equipment needed – Hornady Annealing Kit User Manual
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CASE ANNEALING
Never apply heat to any loaded cartridge or primed case. Always verify that
all cases you intend to anneal are empty and unprimed. Do not assume
an indented primer is spent. It could have been a misfire. When heated
sufficiently, such primer will detonate, ejecting the cup with dangerous
force. Examine all cases to be annealed. Discard any case with cracks
or splits, enlarged primer pockets, serious dents, corrosion, or excessive
thinning between the body and the web. Do not anneal cases within one inch
of the case head. Annealing in this area removes necessary strength and
hardness required for cartridge performance and shooter safety. Never use
any case suspected of case head annealing crush and discard any such case
immediately.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
• Power screwdriver or variable speed electric drill (1/4" hex drive).
• Propane torch 1/2" or 5/8" diameter tip preferred.
• Flat and stable work area of sufficient size, free of flammable objects
and supplies.
• Large bench vise (optional for clamping the propane torch).
• Largemouth container (such as a three pound coffee can) with sufficient
water to completely immerse all annealed cases.
• Sufficient light to allow observation of color change in temperature
sensing material.
• Safety glasses.
• Heat resistant gloves.