Number of Reloads per Case

[retired_diver]

I would think the nickel cases split earlier because they have less brass in them. I would think if they nickel plate the brass in order to be the same outside diameter the brass would be thinner. Not sure and have never measured by peeling the plating off.

that may be, but they still do not show any signs of failure. I have 400 rounds of 44mag and haven't purchased new since 1982. Back then since the 629 was my only gun, I shot 250-300 rounds a month thru it reloaded and shot some more. Now I shoot that many a year since i moved to semi-autos. But, still reloading that same brass.

 

[HCH]

Do split cases and/or loose primer pockets result in any potential for flame cutting of the firearm?

 

[rwsmith]

I don't know....

Target loads are easy on cases, 20 reloads or more ..........

You will not get to much mileage out of maximum loads in most cases,................... like these 38 specials, for example.

I think I could get a few more loadings out of those.

 

[Nevada Ed]

I was thinking the same thing............
but I could not find my Duct Tape !!

One thing I do use near the end of a case's life is a black felt pen. One mark on the back rim means a small crack or split.
A line all the way across the base means to toss it when done.

I also "Ink" my shotgun brass when a hull starts to get a weak crimp or pin holes in the folding areas.
Poor crimps cause a load to loose velocity....... not a good thing.

 

[Skyhunter]

When I bought my first .41 mag. back in 1971, I also purchased 4 boxes of Remington ammo (it was all they had!).
I've since bought more brass, but I'm still using those same 4 boxes and nary a failure. Keeping in mind, most loads for the .41 mag are with the Keith cast SWC and loaded to +/-1,000 fps. Never needed anything hotter and I've never had to shoot something twice with that load and bullet.

 

[rwsmith]

Until

Pistols - load until there is obviously something wrong with the case

Bottleneck cartridges - be more careful because damage can be insidious.

 

[Amp]

Yep keep loading till they say they quit. PMC nickel plated quit before some. The brass will let you know when its done.