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Posted: 11/15/2005 3:15:50 PM EDT
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I was practicing at the range at the 200 for highpower using Fed GMM 69 grainers. I had a stoppage, which cleared easy enough, and I kept going. At the end of the day, I picked up two cases missing primers. Found one next to my position on the ground, the other was in my lower. I had no problems with blow-back around the charging handle, and the rest of the ammo didn't have any flat primers or strange marks. Both the primers dropped right in the primer pockets with almost no effort - the pockets were really loose. This is factory new ammo that has been stored in my closet (no excessive heat or humidity). Any ideas on what would cause this? I have never had it happen before. Any help appreciated. |
| This is odd for factory-new ammo. I have experienced primer pockets get loose on Federal brass after being reloaded a time or two, but never heard of it with new brass. My advice would be to call Federal and tell them what happened. It can't hurt and you might just get some free ammo out of it. MJD |
Well, I took this advice. I called Federal. They got back with me immediately. I talked to one of their tech guys. He told me to box up the remaining 420 rounds I had, and ship it to them for a replacement. They pay shipping both ways. Gotta say, I am really pleased with their service. They told me the ammo made a few years back (like mine) has had minor issues, and they didn't try to make any excuses. They just said they'd fix the problem. Outstanding. And thanks for the advice. I was just gonna keep shooting the stuff and hope for the best - thinking it was just my problem. |
No, they explained it to me both by e-mail, and a guy calling me personally on the phone (go figure - a real person - I didn't know anyone had those anymore). They told me that they had gotten complaints of certain lot numbers manufactured in certain years that had this problem (late 90's). They gave me the numbers - I went home and checked, and viola - the bad lots. They said the problem was fixed years ago, and I just kinda stopped shooting very much so didn't run into the problem. They told me to send it in, and they sent the replacements free, plus some extra for my trouble. They said the change in the brass solved the problem, and if I had any more problems, to let them know. Overall, I was very impressed with their service. |
The check's in the mail!  Thanks, though. I'd have eaten those rounds: not real assertive when it comes to stuff breaking - I usually just go buy something else. Guess I'm kind of a pansie. 
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Well, I cleaned off my desk at work since then (in the shredder). I do know that he said they were manufactured in '95 and '96 if that helps. Since I sent the ammo in, and I always throw away the boxes as I take out the ammo, I am of little use. Sorry. I suck - I know. |
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I saw that happen in .308 GM once, too in a Rem 700. Primer blew out and there was no powder in the round. It sounded like a .22 short BB cap and left the bullet lodged in the back of the barrel. Federal cartridge QC is not as good under Blount industries. They've forced some obvious shortcuts on them and their ammo is not as good as it used to be. I once saw a Federal target shotshell whose primer hole was off center and near the edge of the shotshell rim. The round was a factory loaded trap shot shell. Either a Gold Medal or a Top Gun. |
Ummmm Errrrrr Blount sold Federal to ATK nearly five years ago.( March of 2001 was the announced sale) As to short cuts. ATK has spent more on quality than either of the last two owners. I won't say combined... but it might be closer than you think. I would sure like to see pictures of that shot shell. |
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Actually my last response was unkind. I apologize. Some folks are lead to be believe they have the most current, bleeding edge information. It isn't their fault that they get it from gun shop commandos. I'm not trying to put anyone on the spot. I am, however tired of responding to the same ten year-old questions. It seems that everyone wants to bash something.... ok... bash at will. Please try to be more current. I really can't tell you what happened 5-10 years ago... I can give you today's pulse. |
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