Annealing question

[JustC]

OK, I built my annealing machine and began to play with the torch to see just how to do this. I varied my time and appearance of the cases and have some questions.

1. When you say just to heat the neck until it jusssst turns maroon in color, I assume this is the very hint of a glow ???which is what I did on the number 5 case in the pic.

2. of these cases, which appears to be the closest to correctly?

3. if the cases don't start to change colors, can I assume that they were not affected and could be then re-heated to acheive the correct color,condition)?

4. please comment on these cases if you see anything I need to be aware of.

Thanks

cases are from those heated the least, to the final case that I got to jussssst barely start to show the slightest very dull glow.

 

[kitsap]

JustC,

Your last case looks the best from the color standpoint. The concept of a "hint of glow" is very dependent on the ambient light where you are doing the work. If it is bright artificial or sun light the hint of a glow will most likely be after the case is too hot. I have found it best to work in a dimly lit area to catch the first sign of the maroon/red glow. Make sure you have thoroughly read the article by Harris/Light HERE,

The only sure way to gauge your success is the feel of the neck when you rub the anealed case between your fingers. When you have got it right you will know it, no mistake. It also appears you could go further down on the case shoulder based on the color of your pictures.

 

[odinohi]

Just wondering, How did you build your machine? I've been tossing the idea around. Thanks, OD

 

[JamesnTN]

actually the last one in the pic looks as if it had gotten too much heat. I was told if you see the brass begin to glow it got too hot. I do all mine by hand in the bathroom with the light out and I just learn to watch the flame on my torch and if you do this long enough you'll see the brass turn just before the glow.

 

[chuckw2]

Guys,
How can you tell by looking at the case that it is time to anneal?

Chuck

 

[BarryL]

I doubt you can tell by looking, at least I cant. I tell by groups opening up and they feel inconsistant when seating the bullets.

 

[JamesnTN]

on my match brass I typically anneal my cases after 5 firings then I go thru and trim them back as well.