First Impressions of Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of cleaning and maintenance products. I’ve experimented with everything from ultrasonic cleaners to elaborate solvent baths. But when I stumbled upon Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit, I was intrigued by its simplicity and affordability.
I was looking for a cost-effective, eco-friendly media to clean my brass casings after a long day at the range. Tired of harsh chemicals and the never-ending quest for spotless brass, I hoped this might be the answer. Upon receiving the 6 lb. box, my initial impression was good. The media appeared clean and uniform in size, suggesting quality control from Berry’s Manufacturing.
Compared to walnut media, which is another common choice, the corn media felt a bit lighter and perhaps less aggressive. I’ve also used crushed pecan shells in the past, which created so much dust it was ridiculous. Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit seemed like a good middle ground. My first impression was cautiously optimistic – hoping for effective cleaning without excessive dust or damage to my brass.
Real-World Testing: Putting Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit after a particularly dusty day at the outdoor range. I was processing about 500 rounds of mixed-caliber brass, ranging from 9mm to .223. Using a vibratory tumbler, I added the brass and media, letting it run for three hours.
The tumbler sat on my workbench in the garage, which, admittedly, is not the most climate-controlled environment. The garage was relatively dry, but the ambient temperature hovered around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. I was pleased to see that even after this initial run, the Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit produced a noticeable shine on the brass. There was a modest amount of dust, but significantly less than I’d experienced with other media types.
Initially, I was concerned that the 14/20 grit size might be too coarse, but it proved effective at removing carbon fouling without excessive abrasion. After the three-hour tumble, the brass was noticeably cleaner than when it went in, making the primers easily removeable. I did have to wipe some of the cases with a microfiber cloth, though, to clear away any stubborn debris that was still stuck on the sides.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and multiple tumbling sessions, the Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit continues to perform reliably. I estimate I’ve cleaned roughly 3,000 cases with the same batch of media. While it’s definitely showing signs of darkening from accumulated dirt and residue, it’s still effectively cleaning brass.
There is a gradual breakdown of the media over time, leading to a slight increase in dust production. However, this is easily managed with a simple sifting screen. One thing to keep in mind is that the breakdown of the media happens a lot slower than other media types. Maintenance is minimal; I simply add a capful of brass polish to the tumbler every few cycles to enhance the cleaning action.
Compared to previous experiences with walnut media, which tended to aggressively polish the brass to a mirror shine but also left a fine residue, the Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit offers a gentler, more consistent clean. It’s not perfect, but the results are more than satisfactory for the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit
Specifications
The Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit is specifically designed for cleaning and polishing brass casings. It is made from ground corncob, a natural and biodegradable material.
- Grit Size: 14/20: This refers to the particle size of the media, with 14/20 indicating a relatively medium grit size suitable for general-purpose cleaning. The number represents the mesh size of the screen used to grade the media.
- Weight: 6 lbs: The media comes in a 6-pound box, which is a decent quantity for reloading enthusiasts.
- Material: Ground Corncob: Corncob is absorbent and relatively soft, making it effective at removing dirt and residue without excessive abrasion.
- Biodegradable: A huge plus for environmentally conscious reloaders, allowing for responsible disposal.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the cleaning performance and longevity of the media. The 14/20 grit provides a good balance between cleaning power and gentleness, preventing damage to the brass while effectively removing fouling. The 6 lb quantity offers ample media for numerous reloading sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit excels at removing carbon fouling, powder residue, and other contaminants from brass casings. It’s not as aggressive as walnut media, so it may require slightly longer tumbling times to achieve the desired level of cleanliness.
- Strengths: Effective at removing light to medium fouling, generates minimal dust, eco-friendly, and relatively inexpensive.
- Weaknesses: May require longer tumbling times for heavily soiled brass, less effective on stubborn stains compared to more aggressive media.
Overall, the Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit meets my expectations for a cost-effective and environmentally friendly cleaning media. It doesn’t produce a mirror shine, but it provides a thorough cleaning that prepares the brass for reloading.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit is straightforward. It’s simply ground corncob, packaged in a cardboard box.
- Build Quality: The media itself appears uniform in size and free from contaminants.
- User-Friendly: There’s virtually no learning curve. Just pour it into your tumbler and go.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit can last for numerous reloading sessions. Regular sifting to remove debris and the occasional addition of brass polish will extend its lifespan.
- Durability: Expect to clean several thousand cases before needing to replace the media.
- Maintenance: Sifting and adding polish as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit doesn’t come with any accessories per se, but it’s highly compatible with various brass polishing compounds and additives. These can be used to enhance the cleaning action and achieve a brighter shine.
Popular options include:
- Brass Polish: Added to the tumbler to accelerate the cleaning process and impart a shine.
- Case Polish: Specifically formulated to protect brass casings from tarnishing.
The media is also compatible with most vibratory tumblers designed for brass cleaning, making it a versatile choice for reloaders.
Pros and Cons of Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit
Pros
- Effective at removing light to medium fouling.
- Eco-friendly and biodegradable.
- Relatively inexpensive.
- Generates minimal dust compared to other media.
- Provides a gentle clean, preventing excessive abrasion of brass.
Cons
- May require longer tumbling times for heavily soiled brass.
- Less effective on stubborn stains compared to more aggressive media.
- Does not impart as high a shine as some other media.
Who Should Buy Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit?
The Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit is perfect for:
- Reloaders seeking a cost-effective and environmentally friendly cleaning solution.
- Those who prioritize gentle cleaning to prevent damage to brass casings.
- Reloaders who want a media that generates minimal dust.
Who should skip this product?
- Reloaders seeking a mirror shine on their brass in the shortest possible time.
- Those dealing with heavily tarnished or corroded brass.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Brass polish compound.
- Sifting screen for removing debris.
Conclusion on Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit
The Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit offers a solid and reliable solution for cleaning brass casings. It’s not the flashiest or most aggressive media on the market, but it delivers consistent results at an affordable price.
At $26.19 for a 6 lb box, the price is definitely justified, especially considering the eco-friendly nature of the product. I would personally recommend it to any reloader looking for a dependable and environmentally conscious cleaning media.
Give Berry’s Manufacturing Corn Media 14/20 Grit a try. You might be surprised at how effective and hassle-free it is.