How to Reload the 35 Whelen AI

In 1922, James V. Howe of Springfield Armory necked down the potent .400 Whelen to a .35, giving the round superior ballistic numbers to the .30-06. The .35 Whelen is a powerful round capable of putting forth 250 grain spitzers at 2500 fps. Because of this edge on the .30-06, the Whelen has a small but secure following. The .35 Whelen is capable of taking all American game, including dangerous game.

Things You'll Need

  • Reloading press
  • Oiled pad
  • .35 Whelen shells
  • Shell holder for .35 Whelen
  • Reloading dies for .35 Whelen
  • H335 powder
  • Powder scale
  • Powder dispenser
  • .35 Whelen 180 grain Speer Bullet
  • Primers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set the press on a level surface, and clamp it down.

    • 2

      Rub the shell that is to be reloaded on the oiled pad, making sure to avoid oiling the shoulder of the casing.

    • 3

      Insert the .35 Whelen shell holder into the bottom of the press. This will allow the press to accommodate the .35 Whelen shell.

    • 4

      Take one .35 Whelen shell and center it in the shell holder. Load the primer seater with primers and gently press one primer into each available shell.

    • 5

      Using the powder scale, measure sixty-one grains of H335 powder. Deposit exactly this amount, using the powder dispenser, into each shell. Be sure to consult updated Speer reloading data to ensure the proper grain deposit.

    • 6

      Load the die set onto the press, screwing it in securely.

    • 7

      Press and seat a 180 grain Speer bullet into each shell by centering a bullet into each shell and firmly pulling down on the press handle so each bullet is seated effectively. Be sure to consult updated Speer reloading data to ensure the proper bullet depth.