Ammo: Aluminum vs Brass
By Gregory Kielma
Why isn't aluminum used for ammunition casings, since it is less expensive than brass and lighter?
Why isn't aluminum used for ammunition casings, since it is less expensive than brass and lighter?
Gregg Kielma
Says FFL and Gunsmith Gregg Kielma, “aluminum is already used in some cheap ammo such as CCI’s Blazer ammo”.
“The problem with aluminum is that it does not have the elasticity of brass and is brittle. The casings are not suitable for reloading because they will likely split on the next firing after being work hardened in resizing”.
“More shock is transferred to the chamber walls with aluminum cased ammo and there is less spring-back making extraction more difficult on hot loads. Brass is just about idea as a cartridge casing material”.
Concludes Kielma, “purchase good ammo for your firearm. Less issues at the range and your life may depend on it”.