Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube Review

First Impressions of Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube

I’ve been reloading ammunition for over a decade, and neck tension has always been a critical factor in achieving consistent accuracy. It is one of those often overlooked details that can make or break a load. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various case neck lubes, some messy, some ineffective, and some downright counterproductive. My initial reaction to Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube was one of cautious optimism, hoping to find a product that simplifies the process without compromising performance.

What really pushed me to try this particular lube was the frustration of dealing with sticky sizing buttons. I wanted something that reduced friction without attracting powder and grime. I was tired of the oily residues that often ended up contaminating my powder charges. The Redding name carries weight in the reloading world, known for precision and quality, so I decided to give their dry neck lube a shot.

The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube comes in a simple, no-frills container. Upon opening, I was greeted with a fine, gray powder; it looked and felt much like graphite. The container feels solid, reassuring me of the product’s quality, and its compact size promises longevity, even with regular use. Compared to liquid lubes I’ve used, the dry format was immediately appealing from a cleanup perspective.

I considered other dry lubes like those from Hornady and RCBS. I chose the Redding product based on its reputation for consistency and the Redding brand’s overall commitment to quality reloading components. My first impression was favorable: this looked like a product designed with precision reloaders in mind. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube took place at my reloading bench, preparing .308 Winchester rounds for an upcoming precision rifle match. I applied a small amount of the lube to both the inside and outside of the case necks using a nylon brush. The application process was clean and easy. The case necks slipped onto the sizing button with noticeably less effort.

I experienced no squawking or sticking during the sizing process, a common issue with unlubricated or poorly lubricated cases. Even better, there was no noticeable residue left on the cases or in my sizing die. I worked through a batch of 50 cases and found the process significantly smoother and more consistent than with previous lubes I’d tried. The dry nature of the lube meant no worry about contaminating the powder, which was a major plus.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube continues to perform admirably. I’ve used it to reload a variety of calibers, from .223 Remington to .300 Winchester Magnum, with equally positive results. The durability of the lube is excellent. A small amount goes a long way, and I haven’t noticed any degradation in performance over time.

I’ve found cleaning to be a breeze. A simple wipe with a dry cloth is usually sufficient to remove any excess lube from the cases or dies. The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube has dramatically outperformed any of the liquid lubes I’ve used. It offers superior lubrication without the mess or the risk of powder contamination. It has become an indispensable part of my reloading process, leading to more consistent ammunition and less wear on my equipment.

Breaking Down the Features of Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube

Specifications

• The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube comes in a 1 oz. container. This seems small, but a little goes a long way, making it an incredibly cost-effective product.
• It is a graphite-based powder. This ensures minimal friction and prevents sticking during case neck sizing.
• The lube is designed for both inside and outside case neck application. This maximizes lubrication and reduces drag on the sizing button and die.
• It’s a dry lubricant, minimizing powder contamination risk. This is a crucial benefit for achieving consistent and reliable ammunition.
• It comes with a full lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from Redding. This underscores the Redding’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Performance & Functionality

The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube excels at its primary job: reducing friction during case neck sizing. It allows for smooth, consistent sizing, which is critical for achieving uniform neck tension. With this, you get increased accuracy and reduced bullet runout. It significantly reduces the force required to pull the expander button through the case neck, lessening the strain on your reloading equipment.

The dry nature of the lube prevents powder from sticking to the cases. This ensures consistent powder charges and avoids potential pressure spikes. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a case neck lube, offering a superior combination of performance, ease of use, and cleanliness. The consistency of the sizing process has improved dramatically since I started using it.

Design & Ergonomics

The container design is simple and functional. It’s easy to open and close, and the wide mouth allows for easy access to the lube with a brush or cotton swab. The lightweight nature of the powder makes it easy to apply a thin, even coating to the case necks. The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube design minimizes waste and ensures that the lube is used efficiently.

There’s practically no learning curve; application is straightforward and intuitive. It only takes a few seconds per case.

Durability & Maintenance

The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube itself doesn’t degrade over time if stored properly. The container is robust enough to withstand regular use without cracking or leaking. Minimal maintenance is required. Cleaning up any spilled powder is easy, further adding to the product’s convenience.

Accessories and Customization Options

No accessories are included with the Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube, as it is a standalone product. However, a small nylon brush or cotton swab is recommended for application. It works seamlessly with all types of reloading dies, regardless of brand. There are no specific modifications needed for it to function optimally.

Pros and Cons of Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube

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Who Should Buy Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube?

The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube is perfect for precision reloaders, competitive shooters, and anyone seeking to improve the consistency and accuracy of their handloads. It’s also ideal for high-volume reloaders who want a clean and efficient lubrication method. Anyone reloading bottleneck cartridges will benefit from using this lube.

This product may not be necessary for those who only reload straight-walled pistol cartridges, as neck tension is less critical in those applications. Someone completely new to reloading might prefer a liquid lube initially, as it can be easier to visualize coverage. Must-have accessories include a small nylon brush and a dedicated reloading bench for precision work.

Conclusion on Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube

The Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube is an exceptional product that delivers on its promises. It provides superior lubrication, minimizes powder contamination, and is incredibly easy to use. The price of $14.49 is more than justified, considering its performance and longevity. For me, it’s become an indispensable tool in my reloading process.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Redding Reloading Imperial Dry Case Neck Lube to anyone serious about reloading accurate and consistent ammunition. This product is a game-changer. If you are ready to take your reloading to the next level, give it a try; you won’t be disappointed.