What is a recommended action before beginning load development in reloading?

Before beginning load development in reloading, verifying that there are no crimps in the case is a recommended action because case crimps can affect the consistency of the ammunition being produced. A crimp refers to the mechanism used to secure the bullet in the case, which can vary depending on the type of loading process utilized (such as crimped cases for military ammunition). If there is a crimp present that has not been addressed properly, it can create inconsistencies in bullet seating depth or tension, which can lead to variations in pressure and performance during firing. Ensuring that no crimps are present allows for more accurate load development and helps maintain uniformity across the rounds being tested.

While cleaning all brass thoroughly is important for ensuring the cleanliness and reliability of your ammunition, it does not specifically address the potential issues related to case crimps. The other options also have their merits, but they do not directly impact the initial parameters set for load development as significantly as verifying the absence of crimps. For instance, purchasing new primers for every batch might not be necessary depending on the condition of the existing primers, and loading all bullets to maximum specifications could lead to dangerous pressures if not carefully monitored.