Remington Nylon 66 rifles, while not currently in production, maintain a dedicated following among enthusiasts and collectors. Their unique design and relatively simple action make them appealing, but reloading ammunition for these rifles requires careful attention to detail. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Remington Nylon 66 loading, covering everything from choosing the right components to ensuring safe and accurate reloading practices.
Understanding the Remington Nylon 66 Cartridge
The Remington Nylon 66 typically fires .22 Short, .22 Long Rifle, and sometimes .22 Long cartridges. It's crucial to understand that this rifle utilizes a tubular magazine, meaning cartridges are stacked end-to-end. This necessitates careful consideration when choosing ammunition and reloading components. Never load pointed or hollow-point bullets into a tubular magazine. The potential for accidental primer detonation is extremely high. Round-nosed bullets are essential for safe operation.
Choosing the Right Components
- Cases: While Remington once manufactured cases specifically for their Nylon 66, finding these might prove challenging. Many reloaders successfully use standard .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle cases from reputable manufacturers. Ensure your cases are clean, free from damage, and properly sized before reloading.
- Primers: Standard small pistol primers are used for all three calibers. Again, sourcing high-quality primers from a trusted manufacturer is vital.
- Powder: The low pressures involved in .22 LR reloading allow for a range of suitable powders. Consult loading manuals for recommended powder types and charges. Always start at the minimum recommended charge and work your way up gradually, carefully observing pressure signs.
- Bullets: Round-nosed lead bullets are the safest and most commonly used for reloading .22 LR ammunition for the Nylon 66. Pay close attention to bullet weight and diameter to ensure proper fit and function.
The Reloading Process: Step-by-Step
The reloading process for the Nylon 66 is similar to other rimfire cartridges but demands meticulous attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
-
Case Preparation: Clean and inspect your cases. Remove any debris or imperfections. Sizing is generally not necessary for .22 LR cases, but some reloaders prefer to lightly deburr the case mouth.
-
Primer Seating: Use a dedicated primer seating tool to seat the primers firmly and squarely. Avoid damaging the primers during this process.
-
Powder Charging: Use a powder measure to dispense the precise amount of powder recommended in your chosen loading manual. Double-check the powder charge before proceeding to the next step. Consistency is paramount in reloading. Inaccurate powder charges can lead to dangerous pressure increases or malfunctions.
-
Bullet Seating: Use a bullet seating die to seat the bullet firmly into the case mouth. Ensure the bullet is seated squarely and at the correct depth.
-
Crimping (Optional): Some reloaders choose to crimp the case mouth to secure the bullet. This is generally not necessary for .22 LR, but some may find it beneficial for added stability.
Safety Precautions: Absolute Musts
- Always consult a reputable reloading manual before starting any reloading project. Never guess at powder charges or other specifications.
- Work in a clean, well-ventilated area.
- Wear appropriate safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Never mix different types of ammunition or components.
- Store ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets.
- Regularly inspect your equipment for wear and tear.
Conclusion
Reloading for the Remington Nylon 66 can be a rewarding experience, allowing for the creation of highly accurate and affordable ammunition. However, it is crucial to prioritize safety and adhere to all recommended procedures. Remember, proper technique, attention to detail, and a responsible approach are paramount when reloading any ammunition, especially for firearms with tubular magazines like the Remington Nylon 66. Always consult reliable reloading manuals and resources. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional reloading advice.
