Brass Annealing

What annealing does

Every time you fire a case the brass in the neck and shoulder gets harder. Work hardening. After a number of cycles the neck becomes so hard that it no longer springs back properly, neck tension varies, and eventually the case splits. Annealing heats the neck in a controlled manner until the brass softens again. The result: your neck tension stays the same load after load, and your cases last significantly longer.

For precision rifle that matters. Consistent neck tension means consistent muzzle velocity, and that shows up in your ES and SD.

AMP Annealer

The AMP Mark II DB Induction Annealer is what most serious reloaders use. Australian made, induction based, with AZTEC programmes per calibre. No flame, no guesswork. You select your calibre, press start, and every case receives exactly the same amount of energy. The AMP is not cheap, but the consistency you get in return is unmatched.

Want to process larger batches without feeding each case by hand? The AMP MATE Auto Feeder automates that. Cases go into the hopper and the MATE feeds them to the annealer one by one. You will need AMP pilots to position the case correctly in the annealer, available per calibre.

Derraco Ugly Annealer

Not everyone wants or can spend €1900 on an AMP. The Ugly Annealer from Derraco is a flame based system that rotates the case through a flame zone for consistent heating. Much more affordable than induction, and when set up properly it delivers good results. The bundle with torch and gas cylinder includes everything so you can start straight away.

Vulcano and Burstfire

The Vulcano Induction Annealer from Shooting Technology is an induction annealer priced between the Ugly Annealer and the AMP. Digital controls, no flame, precise temperature management. The Burstfire 2-in-1 Annealer & Case Prep combines annealing with case preparation in a single device.

Accessories

For the Ugly Annealer you need a torch and gas. We stock the Bernzomatic UL2317 torch and TX9 propane disposable cylinders. With TEMPILAQ temperature paint (399°C) you can verify whether you are reaching the correct temperature. Apply it to the case, anneal, and if the paint changes colour you have hit the target temperature. Simple but effective quality control.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start annealing?

Straight away, ideally. Many reloaders only start once they notice their neck tension becoming inconsistent, but the best approach is to anneal after every firing, or at minimum every two to three cycles. The earlier you start, the more uniform your brass stays over its entire lifespan.

Is the AMP worth the price difference over a flame annealer?

If you shoot precision rifle and want zero variation in your annealing process: yes. The AZTEC programmes are calibrated per calibre and eliminate human error. With a flame annealer you need to get the timing and flame setting right yourself. That can work well, but it requires more attention and discipline. The AMP takes that entirely out of the equation.

Can I accidentally soften the case head?

That is a valid concern. If you let the heat travel too far down you soften the brass in the base and shoulder. With an AMP that virtually does not happen because of the controlled energy delivery. With flame annealers it is important not to hold the case in the flame too long. A good rule of thumb: only the neck and the upper part of the shoulder should discolour. The base must stay cool.

Do I need TEMPILAQ?

For flame annealers, yes. It is the easiest way to verify you are reaching the right temperature. For induction annealers it is not necessary since they have their own calibration, but some reloaders still use it as an extra check on their first batches.

How many firings do cases last when annealed?

The difference is huge. Without annealing you can see cracks after five to eight cycles with intensive precision reloading. With consistent annealing many reloaders get twenty cycles or more from the same set of brass. That saves serious money, especially with expensive calibres like 6.5 Creedmoor or .338 Lapua.