RCBS CASE SLICK SPRAY LUBE

Optimizing Your Reloading Process: The Essential Role of Case Lubrication

For anyone involved in the precise art and science of metallic cartridge reloading, achieving consistently high-quality ammunition hinges on numerous factors. Among the most critical, yet often overlooked by newcomers, is the proper lubrication of cases before resizing. This isn't just about making the process smoother; it's fundamental to preventing catastrophic equipment damage, extending the life of your valuable brass, and ensuring the utmost safety and efficiency at your reloading bench. Whether you're a seasoned competitive shooter meticulously crafting match-grade ammunition, a hunter preparing reliable loads for the field, or a casual enthusiast enjoying the cost savings and customization of handloading, understanding and implementing effective case lubrication is paramount.

The Indispensable Necessity of Case Lubrication

Why is case lubrication so vital? When a fired metallic cartridge case is pushed into a resizing die, its brass walls are compressed back to their original dimensions, or even reshaped entirely, as in the case of wildcat cartridges or reformed brass. This process involves significant friction between the brass and the steel die. Without adequate lubrication, the consequences can be severe:

• Stuck Cases: The most dreaded scenario for any reloader. Insufficient lube can cause the brass case to seize tightly inside the resizing die. Removing a stuck case often requires specialized tools, significant effort, and can potentially damage the die or press, leading to costly downtime and repairs.
• Torn Rims: The shell holder grips the case rim to pull it from the die. If the case is stuck, the force exerted can rip the rim clean off, leaving the case body trapped.
• Dented Shoulders: While some issues like stuck cases are dramatic, others are more subtle but equally detrimental to ammunition quality. Uneven or insufficient lubrication can cause the case shoulder to collapse or dent during resizing, creating an unusable piece of brass and inconsistent ammunition.
• Excessive Force Required: Even if a case doesn't stick, poorly lubricated cases require significantly more force to resize. This not only makes the reloading process physically more demanding and fatiguing but also puts undue stress on your reloading press and dies, potentially shortening their lifespan.
• Accelerated Die Wear: Metal-on-metal friction without proper lubrication leads to abrasion. This wear can prematurely degrade the internal surface of your resizing dies, affecting concentricity and the consistency of your resized brass.

Proper lubrication transforms the resizing process from a laborious struggle into a smooth, effortless operation, safeguarding your equipment and ensuring the longevity of your brass.

Introducing RCBS Case Slick Spray Lube: Engineered for Excellence

Among the myriad of reloading lubricants available, the RCBS 9315 Case Slick Spray Lube 4 oz. Bottle stands out as a top-tier choice for reloaders seeking efficiency, reliability, and superior performance. RCBS, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in the reloading community for decades, engineered Case Slick with a specific focus on mitigating the challenges of case resizing.

What makes RCBS Case Slick an exceptional solution for modern reloaders?

• Exclusive Formulation for Unmatched Lubricity: At the heart of Case Slick's performance is its unique, proprietary blend. This advanced formula is specifically designed to minimize friction between the brass case and the steel resizing die. Rigorous testing has demonstrated that using RCBS Case Slick can reduce the force needed to resize common calibers, such as .308 Winchester cases, by an impressive 35 to 70 percent when compared to other conventional lubricants. This significant reduction in force not only makes the resizing process far less fatiguing for the reloader but also drastically reduces stress on your press and dies.
• Optimal Flow and Even Coverage: One of the common pitfalls with some lubricants is uneven application, leading to "dry spots" that can cause resistance or even stuck cases. RCBS Case Slick's formulation is designed to flow evenly and uniformly over the surface of the brass. This ensures complete coverage, eliminating the possibility of localized friction points and preventing issues like dented shoulders or cases binding in the die. The consistent film provides comprehensive protection for every square millimeter of the case body that enters the die.
• Prevents Dented Shoulders and Stuck Cases: The primary benefit of RCBS Case Slick's superior lubricity and even coverage is its effectiveness in preventing two of the most frustrating reloading mishaps: dented case shoulders and stuck cases. The smooth, consistent lubrication allows the brass to flow effortlessly into and out of the die, maintaining its structural integrity and shape.
• Convenient Spray Application: Unlike traditional pad or paste lubes that require individual application or rolling, Case Slick comes in a convenient 4 oz. spray bottle. This allows for quick, efficient, and consistent application to multiple cases simultaneously, significantly speeding up the brass preparation stage of your reloading process. Simply lay out your cases, give them a light, even spray, and they're ready for sizing.
• Long-Lasting and Non-Migrating: Once applied, Case Slick forms a durable, slick layer that doesn't easily rub off or migrate, ensuring consistent performance throughout your resizing session.
• Easy Cleanup: After resizing, RCBS Case Slick is designed to be easily removed during the tumbling or cleaning process, leaving your brass clean and ready for subsequent reloading steps.

Who Benefits from RCBS Case Slick Spray Lube?

This product is an invaluable asset for a wide range of reloaders:

• High-Volume Reloaders: If you process hundreds or thousands of cases in a session, the efficiency of a spray lube like Case Slick is a game-changer. The reduced effort per case accumulates into significant energy savings and faster turnaround times.
• Precision Shooters: For those demanding the highest accuracy from their ammunition, consistent resizing is critical. Case Slick's even coverage helps prevent inconsistencies that could affect bullet seating and overall cartridge concentricity.
• Beginner Reloaders: Learning to reload can be daunting. Using a high-quality, forgiving lubricant like Case Slick minimizes common pitfalls (like stuck cases) that can discourage new reloaders, making the initial experience much smoother and more enjoyable.
• Any Reloader Resizing Metallic Cartridges: Whether you're working with common pistol calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP, or popular rifle cartridges such as .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, or .30-06 Springfield, RCBS Case Slick offers superior performance for both full-length resizing and neck sizing operations.

How to Use RCBS Case Slick Spray Lube for Optimal Results

Using RCBS Case Slick Spray Lube is straightforward, but following a few best practices will maximize its effectiveness:

1. Prepare Your Brass: Ensure your brass is clean and dry. Tumbling (rotary or vibratory) and depriming are typically done before lubrication and sizing. If your cases are dirty or oily, the lube won't adhere or perform as effectively.
2. Arrange Cases: Lay out your cases on a clean, non-absorbent surface (such as a reloading tray or a flat piece of cardboard). For rifle cases, stand them upright; for pistol cases, they can be laid on their sides.
3. Apply the Lube: Hold the RCBS Case Slick bottle about 6-8 inches away from the cases. Apply a light, even mist to all cases. For rifle cases, focus on the body and shoulder. For pistol cases, a lighter, more general spray is usually sufficient. Avoid oversaturation; a thin, even coat is all that's needed. You should see a slight sheen, but not drips.
4. Allow to Dry (Briefly): Give the lubricant a few moments (30 seconds to a minute) to set slightly. This helps prevent the lubricant from transferring excessively to your hands or becoming uneven during handling.
5. Begin Resizing: Place a lubricated case into your shell holder and proceed with your resizing operation as normal. You will immediately notice the reduced effort required.
6. Rotate Cases (Optional but Recommended): For maximum consistency, particularly with rifle cases, some reloaders prefer to spray cases, allow them to sit, then roll them over and give them another light mist to ensure all sides are coated. This is especially useful for high-volume or precision reloading.
7. Post-Sizing Cleaning: After resizing, the cases should be cleaned to remove the lubricant. This is typically done by tumbling (dry media like corn cob or walnut, or wet tumbling with stainless steel pins). Removing the lube is important before subsequent steps like priming or powder charging, as residue can attract dirt or affect powder consistency.

The RCBS Advantage: A Legacy of Reloading Excellence

RCBS has been a cornerstone of the reloading community for over 75 years, earning a reputation for producing durable, reliable, and innovative equipment. Their commitment to quality is evident in every product, including the Case Slick Spray Lube. When you choose an RCBS product, you're not just buying a tool; you're investing in decades of engineering expertise and a dedication to the reloading craft. This product, like many others from RCBS, is designed to integrate seamlessly into your reloading workflow, providing performance that reloaders can trust. These high-quality reloading components and accessories are available from reputable dealers like DEGuns, ensuring you have access to the best tools for your reloading needs.

Addressing Common Reloading Challenges with RCBS Case Slick

Many common questions from reloaders revolve around efficiency, safety, and preventing common errors. RCBS Case Slick Spray Lube directly addresses several of these:

• "What's the best way to prevent a stuck case?" – The answer begins with effective lubrication. RCBS Case Slick significantly reduces the risk due to its superior lubricity and even coverage.
• "How can I make resizing thousands of cases less tiring?" – The 35-70% force reduction offered by Case Slick translates directly into less physical strain and faster processing times for high-volume reloaders.
• "My brass keeps denting at the shoulder during resizing. What am I doing wrong?" – Often, this is a lubrication issue. Uneven or insufficient lube causes the brass to bind, leading to collapse. Case Slick's uniform application eliminates these "dry spots."
• "Is a spray lube as effective as a pad or paste lube?" – RCBS Case Slick is formulated to be highly effective, offering comparable or superior performance to traditional methods while providing significant convenience benefits for faster application.

By incorporating RCBS Case Slick into your reloading routine, you're not just using a lubricant; you're adopting a solution that enhances efficiency, protects your valuable equipment, and ensures the consistent quality of your handloaded ammunition. It's a small investment that yields significant returns in terms of time saved, frustration avoided, and the overall enjoyment of the reloading hobby.

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