Texas brand brass

[vulcan]

I was given 100 nickel .357 "Texas" headstamp (new) cases, On the 2nd loading I had 7 split necks . The loads were mild 6.5grs unique & 158gr Berry bullets which showed no pressure signs & fired normal. I'm not familiar with this headstamp, what gives? I didn't over expand the cases either,Just enough for bullet to clear the mouth. BTW is 8 loadings about average for any brand .357 brass? I normally toss them after 8 loadings. Thanks

 

[Johnny Guest]

Well, that explains it - - -

- - -The "Texas" headstamp brass is intended only for distribution to, and loading within, the Lone Star State. Climatic and latitudinal variations more than 100 miles outside the borders are known to cause problems. Ammunition loaded within proper boundries may be shot elsewhere.

Seriously, though--I wish it was that simple. I seem to recall that Midway used to offer such brass. I have no idea who actually manufactured it for them.

Your load certainly sounds mild enough. You've already stated you didn't overexpand. Might you have been putting too vigorous a crimp in place? A really nice roll crimp does look nice, but may overwork brass, especially if it was not properly annealed after forming. After the second firing, you might want to re-anneal the cases

Two methods: If you're a bullet caster, hold the fired case with pliers and insert the case mouth into molten lead for a few seconds. Then drop it into a bucket of water.

Other way: stand cases mouth upward in a shallow pan of water, covering them to within a half-inch of the mouth. Heat well with a propane torch, then tip them over into the water.

I realize this is a lot of trouble for the remaining cases. You may just want to toss 'em as they split.

Best,
Johnny

 

[WESHOOT2]

I HAVE SOME

I think (but can't prove) that it's Remington.

When going to the top (or over) suggest new Starline. In wheels.