M1a

[JD594]

I am new to loading rifle ammo. I just bought a M1A and would like to reload 308. I was told that I would only be able to load 308 brass 3 or 4 times only because a 308 is hard on brass. Can anybody give me any info. on this subject.

Thanks JD.

Information

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[Bob Womack]

Moved to Ammunition and Reloading, where it can benefit from more exposure to those involved in the process.

Bob

[Gun Surfer]

The M1A is hard on brass. From my experience you can expect to get 4-6 reloads, depending upon how hot you load, the brass, the particular rifle, etc. Some people including me have tried the RCBS X-Die, which if you follow instructions should prolong the life of your brass. I got 10 reloads using an M1A, but I had to use a Body Die on the 10th time to get the cases to within specifications. Some shooters will recommend against using an X-Die. I suggest that you research it well before you go that route. You definitely need to full length resize your brass every reload for a semi-auto, often followed by the need to trim the brass.

You should have some basic equipment for this type of reloading, including a Wilson or Dillon Case Gage for ensuring that your resized cases are within proper chamber specifications, and perhaps something to check for incipient case head separation, like an RCBS or other tool for that, or learn the "paper clip" method. Of course you need a case trimmer. Also, a primer pocket cleaner, Hornady makes a great one for use with a drill. You have to make sure that your primers are seated to the proper depth, high primers can get you a "Kaboom" in the M1A.

[Got-R-Did]

Gun Surfer said it as well as could be stated. Well Done Sir.
Got-R-Did