This is in part due to the extra meat the extractor has to yank on as a byproduct of what is simply a larger cartridge. 223/5.56x45mm, and Kalashnikov-patterned rifles like the AK-74 that are shooting intermediate cartridges like the 5.45x39mm - rather than say, AKM and SKS rifles firing the larger 7.62x39mm. This is especially prevalent in older FALs in. This is because, in general, the tolerances are not as tight on these guns and they extract with much more force than most brass-cased ammo is designed to tolerate. These rifles can, if not properly tuned, rip the heads clean off of softer brass cases.

Now, take for example some of the surplus FALs lying around (yes I know the FAL is Belgian), or AKs rechambered for straight-walled cartridges. Now, most of the Western weapons you’re probably most familiar with ( AR-15 and AR-10s for example) use primarily straight-walled cartridges that extract with fairly light pressure. Of course, there’s also the issue of extraction. Once they expand they like to stay expanded - meaning you get only two, maybe three, safe uses out of the case before it has to be thrown away or recycled.45 Colt Reloads Steel-Cased Ammo Pros & Cons Steel (Might) Extract Better Steel cases can’t really be resized as easily. Dillon 550-B Reloading Pressīut for high-volume shooters and those who want to get the most bang for their buck (literally), this is something to consider. Practically, if you don’t intend to reload/handload your ammo anyway, this won’t be much of a concern for you. You can learn more about the reloading process here.

New winchester 9mm brass