Approximately $70.52 billion of the nation’s total economic activity in 2021 was attributable to the firearms and ammunition industry. This fact alone is evidence that Americans love their guns.

The biggest player in the industry is firearm sales. Rifle brass, more specifically, rifle ammunition, is a more serious issue than it appears.

It’s important to know your brass and where it comes from so that you can protect yourself from bad ammunition. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about rifle brass, from quality control standards to brands that offer the best.

What Is Rifle Brass

When brass is manufactured for use in firearms, the primary alloying element is copper. This gives the brass a high level of corrosion resistance and ductility. The percentage of copper in brass can range from 70% to 90%.

The other elements in brass include zinc, lead, iron, aluminum, and manganese. The amount of each element added to the brass alloy affects the properties of the brass. For example, adding more zinc makes the brass harder and more wear resistant.

The Different Types of Rifle Brass

The type of brass you need will depend on the type of rifle you have as well as the caliber of the ammunition you intend to use. The types include:

Bolt-Action Rifle

If you have a bolt-action rifle, you will need to purchase brass that is specific to that type of rifle.

There are many different types and brands of brass available, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase. You will also need to purchase brass that is compatible with that caliber.

Lever-Action Rifle

Lever-action rifles are a type of rifle that uses a lever to chamber a round. The brass for these types of rifles is usually found in the same place as other types of rifle brass.

However, it is important to make sure that the brass is the correct size for your rifle. Lever action rifles typically use either .30-30 or .35 caliber brass.

Once-Fired Brass

Once-fired brass is brass that has been used once and then collected. It is generally less expensive than new brass, but it may have minor blemishes or imperfections. If you shoot frequently, you will need more brass.

Centerfire Brass

This type of brass is generally used in rifles that are chambered for cartridges with a primer in the center of the case head. It’s the most common and what you’ll find most often at gun stores. It’s used in most rifles and is reloadable.

Rimfire Brass

Rimfire brass is less common and is only used in a few rifles. It’s not reloadable.

How to Shop for Rifle Brass

There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for rifle brass. Here’s what to know:

Manufacturer

When selecting brass, you should also consider the manufacturer. Some manufacturers produce brass that is of a higher quality than others.

For example, Lapua brass is known for its excellent quality and consistency. Once you find a brand of brass that you like, stick with it for the best results.

Price

Keep in mind that brass can vary greatly in price, so be sure to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. However, it’s important to remember that cheaper is not always better.

In fact, some of the cheaper brands may not be following the firearm safety rules.

It’s important to do your research and find a reputable brand that offers quality brass at a fair price. Ultimately, it’s important to find brass that is the right size, well-made, and reasonably priced.

Purpose of the Brass

Rifle brass can be used for several purposes, including target practice, plinking, or even hunting.

The most important factor to consider when purchasing rifle brass is the quality of the brass. Lower-quality brass is more likely to be damaged or deformed, which can lead to misfires.

The Quantity You Need

If you’re just starting shooting range, you won’t need a large quantity of brass. Depending on how often you shoot, you may need a larger amount of brass. If you’re just starting, a smaller amount will suffice.

Places to Find Brass

There are several places to find brass, including gun stores, online retailers, and even some sporting goods stores. Many gun stores carry a wide selection of brass reloading supplies, and they can usually order anything that you need.

Another great place to look for brass reloading supplies is online. Many online retailers sell rifle reloading supplies, and they often have great deals on brass bullets. Visit this page for a great collection.

Free of Defects and Scratches

Look for the brass to be free of defects and scratches. While minor scratches may not seem like a big deal, they can actually cause problems down the line.

If you are unsure about anything, it is always best to consult with a professional before making a purchase.

Storing Your Brass

When shopping for rifle brass, it’s important to know how you will be storing it. Think about the amount of brass you’ll need to store. The most important thing to remember is to keep your brass clean and dry.

Caliber

It’s important to select the right caliber for your needs, as this will determine how effective your rifle is at the long shooting range. If you’re looking for a rifle that’s effective at long range, then you’ll want to choose a caliber that’s designed for this purpose.

Check for Any Deformities

As you sort through brass, look for any deformities that might affect function or accuracy. damaged case mouths, dents, or cracks can all lead to problems down the line. Once you’ve found a good batch of brass, it’s time to start cleaning it.

Get the Most Out of Your Rifle Brass Shopping

If you’re looking to get into reloading rifle brass, these are the things you should know. With a little knowledge and effort, you can start reloading your rifle brass and customizing your ammo to your specific needs.

For more informative articles, be sure to check out the rest of our blog.