Question-Different way- How many reloads?

[edwardware]

Thinking about maybe one more loading and starting a new batch on their trip to 6 loadings. And sending this batch to recycler.

Thoughts from you all?

Why? How'zabout you keep loading them. . .

Or at least load one or two until they split for The Science (tm).

 

[41 Mag]

In my years of loading both handgun and rifles most of the brass I've trashed has been from expanded pockets or a split.

For the most part the semi auto cases have either split or I've found the neck tension just goes away. I figured this is simple from over working the cases during sizing and getting brittle or work hardened and springing back more than usual.

 

[orionengnr]

Anecdotally, I have read multiple threads where people have reloaded .38 Spl and .45 ACP cartridges until (as jmorris says) the headstamp is worn off without splitting the case mouth or loosening the primer pocket. This tells me that a low-pressure, straight-wall case is very under-stressed and may be re-used almost indefinitely.

Up the pressure a bit (9mm, .40, .357) and the wear rate goes up somewhat. Still, probably a whole lot more than 10 re-uses are available.

Go to a necked case (rifle round or .357 Sig) and the dynamic changes significantly. Now you may be in the 3-5 use category.

I reload mostly .45acp and .45LC, a smaller number of 10mm and .380 acp, and a recent up-tick in .38 and .357. I have a good supply of brass but honestly tend to re-load, re-shoot, re-clean and re-re-load the same 300-500 cases for each chambering without even thinking about dipping into my reserve supply.

This thread has given me something to think about. Probably won't worry about the low pressure rounds, but .380, 9mm, 10mm and .357 I may either rotate my stock more actively or count reloads and retire them after a certain (as yet undetermined) number.

Thanks for the discussion and the food for thought. One of the many reasons I frequent THR.