Brass Life

[dunraven]

My 6XC brass probably has 20-25 firings. It's tumbled clean and Bench Source-annealed after every firing. It's used in PRS and various long range competitions. Is there a point where it should be 'retired' even if it shows no outward defects? Thx.

 

[jr600yd]

When the primer pockets expand to much.

 

[Bob L.]

When the primer pockets expand to much.

This. Unfortunately, about 20-25 firings is about all I can get out my 6BRX brass. I do exactly the same as you do for brass prep.

 

[jepp2]

Is there a point where it should be 'retired' even if it shows no outward defects?

Since I don't know your resizing practices and how much you set the shoulder back, are you checking for incipient case head separation? I use a paper clip with a bent end and you can feel the thinning inside the case before you see the bright ring on the outside.

My experience has been that if your loads aren't enlarging the primer pocket, they will not over time. If they are, you will not be getting the brass life you are.

 

[Zero333]

Checking inside the case with a paperclip as stated is good but I sacrifice a piece and cut it length wise for a visual inspection.