444 case length question

[Catalina25]

Awhile back I was gifted a box of Hornady factory loaded rounds, 265 grn flex tips, for my 444 Marlin and recently shot them up. Today, as I was about to reload the spent cases I noticed that they are a little shorter than, say, my collection of 444 RP brass. Searching the net I found the answer as to why they are so. But what I'd like to know is, are they safe to reload with a standard bullet, I prefer the regular Hornady 265 FP. Or is their shorter lenght an issue.

 

[hydraulicman]

Hmmm I would say the shorter length is a non-issue

The cartridge does not headspace of the case mouth.

I would make up a dummy round and see how it fits/ cycles in the chamber

 

[Catalina25]

I tend to agree with you H-man that it's a non-issue and I have made up a dummy and it does cycle. Maybe if no one responds in the negative I'll load a few up, starting with a lower velocity. See whats what.

 

[hydraulicman]

interesting that they would be short. I was loading .357 magnum yesterday and noticed one or two of fifty CBC brass (from a box of 50 I shot a long time ago )

was a little shorter than the rest. I just loaded them up like the rest.

 

[joustin]

LeveRevolution ammo is longer due to the flex tip, the cases are trimmed shorter to accommodate the difference.

 

[NCsmitty]

The only issue will be the crimp that you apply. You'll probably have to adjust the die to compensate.
They will work fine.



NCsmitty

 

[Catalina25]

I'll load and shoot, should I find anything remarkable I'll be sure to post. Thanks for your input, it is much appreciated.

 

[Catalina25]

I just received an email from Hornady saying not to reload brass used for flex tip with anything other than flex tips. It would seem that the slightly shorter case will create to much pressure. I'm guessing it's kind of like loading 357's in a 38 case.

 

[LAR V]

I just use the sam OAL as I use with normal brass so the internal volume remains the same. Crimping is the problem due to the crimp groove location. You can't use a Lee FCD due to the shorter brass. I usually use LE brass to load cast lee 430-310 bullets that are meant for 44 mag. The rear crimp groove is in just the right place. I use a 44 mag crimp die and crimp by feel.

 

[FROGO207]

To save the hassle sell off the Hornaday brass and use the $$ to get more of the std length 444 brass. Easier than making a mistake or a KABOOM.