Elevate Your Ammunition: Unlocking Peak Precision with the Redding Bushing .296 Titanium

For the dedicated handloader, the pursuit of perfection in ammunition crafting is a journey of meticulous detail and uncompromising standards. Every component, every measurement, and every process contributes to the ultimate goal: superior accuracy and consistency downrange. Within this world of precision reloading, the Redding Bushing .296 Titanium stands out as a critical tool, engineered to help competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and serious hunters achieve unprecedented levels of performance from their custom ammunition.

This highly specialized Redding bushing is not just another piece of reloading equipment; it's a precision instrument designed to exert highly consistent neck tension on cartridge cases, a fundamental factor in ammunition accuracy. If you're striving to eliminate flyers, tighten your groups, and ensure every shot performs exactly as intended, understanding and utilizing advanced tools like this titanium bushing is paramount. It answers the crucial question: "How can I achieve the most consistent and accurate ammunition possible?"

Understanding the Core: What is a Neck Sizing Bushing?

Before delving into the specifics of the Redding .296 Titanium bushing, it’s essential to grasp the role of a neck sizing bushing in the reloading process. When a rifle cartridge is fired, the case expands to fit the chamber. To reuse this brass, the case must be resized. While full-length sizing dies resize the entire case, neck sizing dies (or bushing full-length dies) focus specifically on the case neck.

The neck of a cartridge case holds the bullet. The tightness with which the case neck grips the bullet—known as neck tension—is critically important. Consistent neck tension ensures that each bullet is held with the same force, leading to a uniform release of the bullet when fired. This uniformity directly translates to consistent muzzle velocity, reduced vertical stringing, and ultimately, tighter groups on target. An improperly sized neck can lead to wildly varying neck tension, resulting in unpredictable bullet release and degraded accuracy.

A bushing die uses interchangeable bushings, like the Redding .296 Titanium, to size the case neck to a precise diameter. This allows the reloader to fine-tune the amount of neck tension for specific brass, bullets, and desired shooting performance, far beyond what fixed-die systems can offer. It’s a level of control that transforms good ammunition into exceptional ammunition.

The Redding Bushing .296 Titanium: Engineered for Excellence

The Redding Bushing .296 Titanium is a testament to Redding's commitment to precision engineering and quality. Crafted from robust steel and then coated with an advanced Titanium Nitride (TiN) finish, this bushing offers a unique combination of durability, low friction, and consistent performance. The .296 designation refers to the internal diameter of the bushing in inches, meaning it will size the outside diameter of a cartridge case neck down to approximately .296 inches, before the bullet is seated.

Who is this product for?

• Precision Handloaders: Those who measure every dimension and seek to minimize variations in their ammunition.
• Competitive Shooters: Participants in disciplines like F-Class, Benchrest, PRS, ELR, and Palma, where a fraction of an inch can determine victory or defeat.
• Long-Range Enthusiasts: Shooters consistently engaging targets at 600 yards and beyond, where even minor inconsistencies are magnified.
• Varmint Hunters: Requiring pinpoint accuracy for ethical and effective pest control at extended ranges.
• Reloaders seeking to extend brass life: The reduced friction and precise sizing minimize stress on the case necks, increasing the number of times a case can be reloaded.

What problem does it solve?

The Redding .296 Titanium bushing directly addresses the challenge of achieving consistent and optimal neck tension, which is a common hurdle for many reloaders. Without precise control over neck tension, factors like bullet runout (how much the bullet deviates from the centerline of the case) and variations in bullet pull force can severely impact accuracy. This bushing provides the tool to:

• Eliminate variations in neck tension: Ensuring each round has the same bullet-gripping force.
• Minimize bullet runout: Promoting better bullet alignment with the bore for straighter flight.
• Enhance overall ammunition consistency: Leading to tighter groups and predictable performance.
• Reduce brass fatigue: The smooth, low-friction sizing process prolongs the life of valuable cartridge cases.

The Advantage of Titanium Nitride (TiN) Coating

The choice of materials and coatings in reloading tools profoundly impacts their performance and longevity. Redding's use of Titanium Nitride (TiN) for their bushings is a significant upgrade over standard steel bushings. TiN is a ceramic material known for its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, and lubricity.

Key Benefits of the TiN Coating:

1. Reduced Friction: The incredibly smooth and slick surface of the TiN coating minimizes the force required to size the case neck. This makes the resizing process smoother and more consistent, reducing the chances of galling or scratching the brass.
2. Extended Bushing Life: TiN is significantly harder than steel, meaning the bushing itself will resist wear and tear for a much longer period, maintaining its precise internal dimensions over thousands of sizing operations.
3. Enhanced Case Life: Less friction during sizing means less stress and stretching on the brass case neck. This significantly extends the usable life of your valuable cartridge cases, reducing the frequency of annealing or needing to discard brass due to fatigue.
4. Consistency in Sizing: The low-friction nature of the TiN allows for more uniform sizing passes, contributing directly to the desired consistency in neck tension from one cartridge to the next.
5. Corrosion Resistance: The TiN coating provides an additional layer of protection against rust and corrosion, ensuring the bushing remains in top condition even with prolonged use.

These advantages collectively contribute to a reloading experience that is not only more efficient but also produces superior results, justifying the investment for any serious handloader.

Selecting the Right Bushing: More Than Just a Number

Choosing the correct bushing size is a critical step in precision reloading and often causes confusion for new users. The .296" bushing is just one size in a wide array offered by Redding. The ideal bushing size for your cartridge is determined by two main factors:

1. Your Loaded Neck Diameter: Measure the outside diameter of a factory loaded round, or a carefully hand-loaded round that has the bullet seated.
2. Desired Neck Tension: This is the amount of 'squeeze' the case neck exerts on the bullet. Most precision reloaders aim for .001" to .003" of neck tension. A good starting point is often .002".

Here's a simplified method to determine your optimal bushing size:

1. Step 1: Measure a Loaded Round. Take several of your fully assembled, loaded rounds (with the bullet seated) and measure the outside diameter of the case neck at its widest point using a high-quality micrometer. Average these measurements. Let's say this averages to X inches.
2. Step 2: Determine Desired Tension. Decide how much neck tension you want. For example, if you want .002" of neck tension.
3. Step 3: Calculate Bushing Size. Subtract your desired neck tension from your average loaded neck diameter. So, your ideal bushing size would be X - 0.002".

For instance, if your loaded neck diameter with a .224" bullet in a .223 Rem case is typically .248", and you desire .002" tension, your target bushing size would be .248" - .002" = .246". In this hypothetical example, the .296 bushing would be too large, highlighting the need for precise measurement for your specific components.

The .296 bushing size implies a specific application. It might be suited for cartridges with very thin neck walls using certain bullet diameters, or for specialized wildcat cartridges. It could also be used for resizing cases down significantly for a particular forming operation. The key is that the methodology for selecting it remains the same: measure your components and subtract the desired tension.

Real-World Scenarios: Where the .296 Bushing Shines

While the exact application of a .296 bushing depends on the reloader's specific brass and bullet combination, its inherent qualities make it indispensable for scenarios demanding ultimate precision:

• Custom Cartridge Development: For gunsmiths and advanced reloaders developing wildcat cartridges or optimizing existing calibers with unique brass or bullets, having a wide range of bushing sizes like the .296 allows for precise control over neck dimensions that fixed dies simply cannot provide.
• Optimizing Thin-Walled Brass: Some high-quality brass manufacturers produce cases with thinner neck walls. These often require larger bushings (relative to their bullet diameter) to achieve the desired neck tension, preventing excessive working of the brass.
• Specific Bullet Types: Certain bullet designs, particularly those for extreme long-range, may benefit from very specific neck tension values, which the interchangeable bushing system can deliver.
• Load Development for Extreme Accuracy: When chasing the tightest possible groups, reloaders often experiment with minute variations in neck tension. The .296 bushing, like others in the Redding line, allows for this granular adjustment, enabling you to dial in the perfect load for your rifle.

The versatility of Redding's bushing system, supported by the durability and low-friction properties of the Titanium Nitride coating, means that reloaders can precisely tailor their ammunition to extract every ounce of accuracy from their firearms.

Benefits for the Dedicated Handloader

Integrating the Redding Bushing .296 Titanium into your reloading regimen offers a multitude of tangible advantages:

• Superior Accuracy: Consistently optimized neck tension is a direct contributor to tighter groups and reduced standard deviation in velocity.
• Extended Brass Life: The smooth, low-friction Titanium Nitride coating minimizes work-hardening and stretching of case necks, allowing for more reloading cycles from your valuable brass.
• Reduced Bullet Runout: Achieving uniform neck tension helps ensure the bullet is perfectly aligned with the case, reducing the wobble or eccentricity that can degrade accuracy.
• Greater Consistency: Every round benefits from the same precise sizing, leading to predictable performance shot after shot.
• Time-Saving Efficiency: While precision reloading requires attention, the reliability and ease of use of a high-quality bushing like this minimize frustration and maximize productivity.
• Protection of Investment: Protecting your reloading dies and brass from unnecessary wear and tear.

Compatibility with Redding Reloading Dies

The Redding Bushing .296 Titanium is designed to be fully compatible with Redding's renowned line of bushing-style dies. These include:

• Redding Type S Bushing Neck Sizing Dies: Specifically designed for neck sizing only, preserving the fire-formed body of the case for maximum concentricity in your chamber.
• Redding Type S Bushing Full Length Sizing Dies: Offers the precision of bushing neck sizing combined with full-length sizing of the case body, ideal for semi-automatic rifles or when cases need to be resized to fit multiple chambers.
• Redding Competition Bushing Neck Sizing Dies: These dies represent the pinnacle of neck sizing technology, offering even greater concentricity and precision for the most demanding competitive shooters.

When paired with these precision dies, the .296 Titanium bushing becomes part of an unstoppable system for producing world-class ammunition.

Tips for Optimal Performance

To maximize the benefits of your Redding Bushing .296 Titanium, consider these expert tips:

• Measure Consistently: Always use a high-quality micrometer to measure case neck wall thickness and loaded neck diameters. Consistency in measurement is key.
• Lubricate Properly: Even with the low-friction TiN coating, a very light application of a high-quality case neck lube is recommended for smooth operation and to further extend brass life. Avoid excessive lubrication, which can cause dimpling or hydraulic issues.
• Clean Regularly: Keep your bushing clean of brass shavings and lubricant residue. A quick wipe down after each session will maintain its optimal performance.
• Store Carefully: Store your bushing in a protected environment to prevent damage or corrosion.
• Experiment with Tension: Don't be afraid to try slightly different bushing sizes (if you have them) to fine-tune your neck tension. A difference of .001" can sometimes yield surprising results in group size.
• Anneal Brass: For ultimate consistency and to extend case life, especially with bottleneck rifle cartridges, regularly annealing your brass case necks can prevent work-hardening and promote uniform sizing.

Maintenance and Longevity

The Titanium Nitride coating on the Redding .296 Bushing significantly enhances its durability and reduces maintenance needs. However, even the highest quality tools benefit from proper care:

• Post-Use Cleaning: After each reloading session, remove the bushing from the die. Wipe down the exterior and interior with a clean, dry cloth to remove any brass dust or lubricant residue.
• Inspect for Wear: Periodically inspect the inside diameter for any signs of wear or scratches. While TiN is extremely hard, inspecting ensures peak performance.
• Storage: Store the bushing in its original packaging or a dedicated small container to protect the precision-machined surfaces from impacts or contamination. A light coating of rust preventative oil is a good practice if storing for extended periods in humid environments, although the TiN coating offers significant protection.

With proper care, your Redding Bushing .296 Titanium will deliver precise and consistent performance for countless reloading cycles, making it a truly long-term investment in your shooting accuracy.

Conclusion

The pursuit of accuracy in shooting is an unending quest, and for the serious handloader, tools like the Redding Bushing .296 Titanium are indispensable allies. By offering unparalleled precision in neck sizing, superior durability through its Titanium Nitride coating, and seamless integration with Redding's renowned die systems, this bushing empowers reloaders to craft ammunition that consistently performs at the highest levels. It solves the critical problem of inconsistent neck tension and runout, providing a pathway to tighter groups, greater confidence, and an overall more rewarding shooting experience. Invest in the tools that championship shooters trust; invest in Redding. Find your Redding Bushing .296 Titanium and other precision reloading supplies at DEGuns.com.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail	Benefit
Material	Hardened Steel with TiN Coating	Exceptional durability & reduced friction
Diameter	.296 inches (Internal)	Precise neck sizing control
Manufacturer	Redding Reloading Equipment	Trusted brand for precision tools
UPC	611760762963	Unique product identifier
Compatibility	Redding Bushing Dies	Seamless integration with Redding systems