To Anneal or Not to Anneal That is the Question

[Shanghai Jack]

I have a BUNCH of 45-120 brass from all different makers and fired in multiple guns- even some made from 45 Bell basic. Question is to prep the brass should I

Should I
(1) anneal then size
(2) size then anneal
(3) anneal, size, re-anneal
(4) do something else

Awaiting education.

Thanks

[ACC]

1

acc

[Delkal]

Anneal then size. Then shoot the cases for a while.

you don't have to reanneal every time they are loaded.

[Castaway]

Depending on how many times they’ve been sized, I size again then anneal if you’re sure they won’t split. If in doubt, anneal, then size

[country gent]

With the assumed age of your brass I would anneal and size. Age hardening is a thing and can be worse than actual use. I would anneal the brass then at least every 2-3 firings after. Especially if your planning on true black powder loading.

With loading of true black powder most factory brass need annealing often to maintain consistent release and sealing of the chamber to case.

[rr2241tx]

Anneal each time. Your brass will last longer, seal your chamber better, and release more consistently.

[stubshaft]

#3 for me.