In an impressive display of durability and performance, I achieved a personal record for the number of firings with a single piece of Alpha Munitions 6 Dasher brass. This article will detail the process, the results, and the insights gained from this exhaustive stress test. Check it out!
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Setting the Stage
This year at Ultimate Reloader has been all about pushing limits and conducting rigorous experiments. From pressure tests (like pushing .308 Winchester brass to .300 Win Mag performance), to extreme torture tests (like .308 & 6GT), we’ve explored the boundaries of shooting and reloading components. Most recently, we turned our focus to 6 Dasher brass from Alpha Munitions to see just how far it could go under max load conditions. If you’re interested in each of those individual stories, check out the dedicated videos here as follows:
INSANE Performance: Pushing the 308 Win into 300 Win Mag Territory (Bat Machine, Alpha Munitions)
Alpha .308 Torture Test: How Many Firings On A Single Piece Of Brass?
DON’T TRY THIS: Pushing 6GT to the MAX (Alpha Munitions, Bat Machine)
Each of these experiments have pushed the limits. Let’s get into the next!
The Experiment Setup
The goal was simple: determine how many firings Alpha Munitions 6 Dasher brass could withstand at maximum load. Unlike previous tests, this time I incorporated annealing after each firing using the Annealing Made Perfect (AMP) Mark II annealer. The annealing process began by using Aztec technology to generate a precise code for optimal settings.
This involved sacrificing one case to reach its melting point without completely melting it, ensuring accurate parameters for subsequent annealing.
After annealing, the brass underwent a careful process:
- Lubrication: Case lube was applied to the inside of the neck and the outside of the body.
- Sizing: The sizer was adjusted to avoid overworking the brass.
- Cleaning and Priming: Excess lube was wiped off, and the case was reprimed.
- Charging and Seating: Powder was manually dispensed, and bullets were seated using a precise cartridge overall length (COAL) of 2.459 inches.
- Firing: The test shooting took place indoors due to inclement weather, ensuring consistent conditions.
Load Data and Process
For this experiment, I used a max load of 31.8 grains of Hodgdon Varget Powder paired with Berger 105-grain bullets. The brass started as a brand-new case, and each firing was meticulously documented with photos and measurements. Case length was monitored and trimmed as needed:
- Trim 1: 19 firings
- Trim 2: 36 firings
- Trim 3: 47 firings
- Trim 4: 68 firings
Throughout the experiment, I occasionally cleaned the necks with a Scotch-Brite pad and inspected for signs of fatigue or cracks.
The Results
The brass endured an astonishing 76 firings before failure occurred. The failure presented as a significant crack in the shoulder area, likely accompanied by minor gas leakage. Remarkably, this result represents a 62% increase in lifespan compared to non-annealed brass.
Key Observations:
- Primer Pocket Integrity: The primer pockets remained perfectly sealed across all 76 firings with no signs of loosening or failure.
- Minimal Shoulder Movement: By limiting shoulder bump to approximately 0.001 inches, brass working was kept to a minimum.
- Consistent Performance: Annealing contributed to consistent neck tension and easier sizing.
Implications and Insights
This experiment underscores the importance of quality components, meticulous attention to detail, and proper techniques such as annealing. Alpha Munitions brass, combined with a disciplined reloading process, proved to be a game-changer in terms of durability and reliability.
Looking Ahead
This test is part of our ongoing effort to explore the limits of reloading components and techniques. From live pressure measurements to advanced data acquisition systems, our experiments aim to push boundaries and deliver valuable insights to the reloading community.
Have you conducted similar tests? What are your experiences with brass longevity, annealing, and high-pressure loads? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s continue the discussion.
Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more groundbreaking experiments from Ultimate Reloader!
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Thanks,
Gavin Gear
