.30-06 brass--M2 vs. commercial

[PhilA]

As I work my way into reloading, I want to eventually reload .30-06 for my Garand. So I've been saving my surplus Greek M2 brass for that purpose.

I also have about 50 of my Dad's old .30-06 casings from the 70s that I'd love to reload for my Garand and shoot them on special occasions to honor my father's memory.

What I've noticed, though, is that the extractor groove on the M2 casings is much wider than the groove on Dad's old commercial brass.

So my question(s): Can commercial brass with a narrower extraction groove be used in a Garand? And if not, is there a special tool/cutter that will widen those grooves?

 

[Rico567]

I've shot both military and commercial brass in my Garand without a hitch. The larger issue is the internal case volume. Military cases have thicker brass than commercial = smaller internal volume = higher pressures given the same amount of powder. Most reloading data is worked up using commercial brass. I'd be careful working up loads with that military brass.

 

[rg1]

The Greek HXP cases I have does have a little wider extraction groove than my RP and Win brass. No problems for your Garand. If a case will slide into your shellholder then no problem. Stay with Garand powders such as 4895 or 4064. Just make sure your 70's brass is good to load. A salute to your Dad. I shoot my Grandpas and then Dad's 22 rifle with some of Dad's old ammo once in a while to remember the good old days.