Smyth Busters: Will Steel Cased Ammo Damage My Gun?

Published on August 4, 2020
Duration: 6:53

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.

Quick Summary

Modern steel-cased ammunition is generally safe for most firearms, including AR-15s and AK-47s. While older issues were often due to corrosive primers, modern steel cases may cause slightly more extractor wear and carbon blowback due to less malleability, but this is typically minor and manageable through routine maintenance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Steel Case Myth
  2. 00:21Common Myths and Debates
  3. 01:27Historical Context: Corrosive Primers
  4. 02:12Metallurgy and Barrel Wear
  5. 03:34Extractor Wear and Chamber Sealing
  6. 04:45Platform Compatibility
  7. 06:06Conclusion and Maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can steel-cased ammunition damage my AR-15 or AK-47?

Modern steel-cased ammunition is generally safe for most firearms, including AR-15s and AK-47s. While older issues were often due to corrosive primers, modern steel cases may cause slightly more extractor wear and carbon blowback due to less malleability, but this is typically minor and manageable through routine maintenance.

What is the historical reason for concerns about steel-cased ammo?

Concerns about steel-cased ammunition damaging firearms often stem from historical issues with older imported surplus ammunition. These rounds frequently used corrosive primers, which, if not cleaned properly, would cause rust and damage to the firearm's bore and chamber, leading to the steel case being wrongly blamed.

Does steel-cased ammo wear out barrels faster?

Steel cases themselves do not typically erode barrels. However, the bimetal jackets on some bullets used in steel-cased ammunition can cause slightly faster barrel wear than pure copper jackets, especially under extreme heat conditions not encountered in normal shooting scenarios.

Is steel-cased ammo reliable in modern firearms?

Yes, modern steel-cased ammunition is generally reliable in modern firearms. While older AR-15 models sometimes had issues, contemporary AR-15s and AK-47 platforms are designed to handle steel-cased ammunition effectively. Even newer 9mm steel-cased options from brands like Winchester are reported to run reliably.

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