Automated Annealing- Giraud or Bench-Source or...

[Modimo]

I just pulled the trigger on my Giraud Trimmer and am now looking at a streamlined annealing setup.

I reload:

.223
6.5 Grendel
6.8 SPC
7.62x39
.308
.338 LM

I plan on annealing in batches ranging from 100-500 rounds.

I have narrowed it down to the Giraud and Bench-Source:

Here is what I have read on both setups:

Giraud:
$450 + $90? (caliber change parts) +S/H
Great for large batch quantities
Excellent quality
Little risk since used equipment often holds close to new value
Setup for dialing in the different caliber parts/flame can take some time

Bench-Source:
$500 (doesn't require caliber change additional parts) + S/H + ? (I think Torch heads may be additional cost)
Easy for multiple calibers
Good quality reported
Absent of a 3rd party rigged case-feeder, you have to manually insert the cases into the feed wheel


At the end of the day, I am wanting to pay for one of these machines to minimize my actual time annealing. Prices will be quite similar between the two. Between the 6 calibers, I think the bench-source may be the easiest quickest solution (Bench-Source quicker setup + hand feeding case wheel annealing 100-500 rounds would be less time than the Giraud longer setup + quicker automated annealing).

I'm just hoping to get other's feedback who have experience with these machines.

Thanks!

[milotrain]

Graud. You can modify it to stripe your brass at the same time. You'll even be able to rent it.

[killshot44]

Bench-Source. Extremely well-built, just add two Benzo-Matic torch-heads and propane and you're annealing. 17 Hornet to 338 Lapua.

The twin torches encase the neck in flame from two sides shortening time needed and it has a superior method of turning the case in the flame.

Hand-feeding is not an issue (I often do 1,000+ runs for customers) as I think it's a bad idea to leave these machines unattended - tank pressures can and will vary during a long run so it pays to keep an eye on the torches anyway.

That's my .02, both a well-liked by those who own them.


I'd recommend getting familiar with flame size and dwell-lengths using junk brass - and learn to use Tempilaq! You really can't just eye-ball it.


PM me for more details or for instructions on running a 10lb tank instead of the little gas kegs.

[krwada]

Dang!

I just use a spark plug wrench chucked up to a hand drill along with a propane torch and a bucket of water.

Of course, Tempilaq is essential. It is not safe to eyeball it. After awhile; you can calibrate the time using the tempilaq and then anneal by time. Of course, you need to calibrate the flame in order to do this properly.

[kmullins]

Check out the Ballistic Edge Mfg. machines. I talked to him at length in person before purchasing and also showed him my first cases to see if they were done correctly. Included the Tempilaq as well. His design doesn't require different shellholders. I purchased the Model 360 and couldn't be happier.

[1HitaQuita]

I would like an auto trimmer but they're just out of my budget right now. I just use my drill press to trim brass in batch, then move over to my lyman case prep station.