[CYANIDEGENOCIDE]

not understanding a whole lot about reloading can someone tell me if one could make .500 magnum brass from 7.62x54r brass?

[dmazur]

Well, just looking at dimensional drawings shows that there are these differences -


7.62x54R has a much smaller base diameter than .500 S&W
7.62x54R has a larger rim diameter than .500 S&W


Basically, the 7.62x54R appears to be a classic rimmed cartridge and the .500 S&W appears to be "semi-rimmed".

Considering the extreme difference in diameter, I don't know how you would go about trying to make it match the .500 S&W specs. Fireforming wouldn't be advisable.

Why not just buy the correct brass?

[navyretired 1]

Trying to make brass when that brass is readily available is not the way to learn the art of case forming. But asking is the way to find out.

[CYANIDEGENOCIDE]

i knew there were reasons why, but i didn't know them. Thanks for the answers

[Strongbad]

Even if you could do it, you wouldn't want to. The 500 S&W runs at a higher pressure.

[zxcvbob]

I looked at the cartridge drawings and it looks doable to me. But it doesn't look like a good idea...