Graphite for neck lube

[Ron AKA]

I guess we all adopt our own twists to reloading methods. I started out using a container of #8 shot and graphite (from CTC). However, I found it did not provide a very uniform graphite film on the inside of the neck. So, I then changed the method slightly to use a nylon bore cleaning brush, and just dip the brush in the container of graphite and shot. I then brush a couple of strokes through the neck. I call it my cleaning and lubricating step. And of course I do this before the case is sized. While I use a bushing die, I also use an oversized expander ball to bring the neck ID out to a nice consistent size. Sizing from the outside only does not guarantee the neck inside is uniform if the neck thickness varies.

And last I do not worry about any residual graphite on the inside of the neck. Powder is lubricated with graphite in any case, and it will not stick to the very thin film of graphite left in the neck.

 

[rooster22]

Good question, here is how I handle it.
As a background, my usual way to lubricate the cases on the outside, is to roll a group of them on my lubricating pad, that has lubrication on/in it.
For the inside of the necks I take a bore brush of about the right diameter and very lightly roll it over my lubrication pad. A very minute amount of lubrication, usually automotive STP, sticks on the brush, nylon or brass, but when the brush is pushed in and out once of the neck, it lubricates it sufficiently, and one rolling on the pad will do quite a few necks. After the resizing ball goes through the neck, any extremely tiny amount of lube that is left can be completely ignored.

I just sized 40 casings, using graphite inside the mouth and out. The brass is 1F. I still got some stretching in the neck and had to trim. Thought good lub prevented stretching but wet lube or graphite still got stretching. I guess stretching is inevitable. I think I'll use wet lube on the next batch, or get a tumbler before I use graphite again. I"ll need a tumbler sooner or later I know.

 

[Jordan Smith]

I do something very similar to the Redding system, except that I just use a 35mm film container, filled up 3/4 with #7 shot, and then dump some powdered graphite in. Shake up and it's ready to go.

 

[22to45]

I clean the inside of my case necks with a bronze brush in a drill. I do not lube them, I do not have problems sizing or holding bullets.