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10/14/2014 5:04:35 PM EDT
I'm having problems with my 223 reloads developing case cracks in the neck when fired. I'm using 52 grain smk over Varget. They almost look more like they are burnt through. Any ideas?
10/14/2014 5:10:00 PM EDT
[#1]
Specifics on the load data? (Brass manufacturer, charge weight, COAL, loading method, etc.)



Number of times the brass has been fired?  



Pics to show the "burnt" look you mention?
10/14/2014 5:10:24 PM EDT
[#2]
What cases are you using? How hot are your loads?
How many times have the cases been fired? This could be an issue of needing to anneal the necks.
10/14/2014 5:21:38 PM EDT
[#3]
In my experience, case neck cracks are what eventually happens after multiple loadings. I'm aware that annealing would probably extend case life, but .223 brass is readily available and cheap enough that I don't plan to invest in annealing equipment. It seems that by the time case necks start cracking, primer pockets are also starting to loosen enough that it's time to scrap the cases.
10/14/2014 6:09:48 PM EDT
[#4]
Had 100 PMC brass from fired factory ammo. After 3 loadings, almost all have cracks in the middle of the necks. Looked like it burned   through.  I feel it comes from the FL die over working the brass, making it brittle. I reamed out the neck area of the die, seemed to help all brass.  Bought a 2nd die set and neck turned the brass to fit the new die. This seems to be the best method.  Or just buy a bushing die.
10/14/2014 10:01:47 PM EDT
[#5]
Normally case necks do not crack until cases are worn out.



Or you could anneal the necks if the primer pockets are still tight.
10/14/2014 11:23:46 PM EDT
[#6]
Agree with others. Turn them into 300BO cases if the rest looks ok (no head separation concerns - look/feel inside).
10/15/2014 12:02:52 AM EDT
[#7]
Varget is not a good powder choice with 52 gr bullets
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