Smyth Busters: Will Steel Cased Ammo Damage My Gun?
This video from Brownells, featuring Steve and Caleb, addresses the common concern about whether steel-cased ammunition can damage firearms. They explain that modern steel-cased ammo is generally safe for most platforms, including modern AR-15s and AK-47s, debunking myths about polymer coatings and corrosive primers. While steel cases can cause increased extractor wear and carbon blowback due to less efficient chamber sealing compared to brass, the cost savings on ammunition typically outweigh the minor maintenance costs of occasional extractor replacement. The video highlights that historical issues were often due to corrosive primers, not the steel cases themselves.













