Author Topic: Matching Cartridge Headstamps  (Read 1242 times)

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Offline lgm270

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Matching Cartridge Headstamps
« on: January 14, 2011, 01:23:24 PM »
I've heard that cartridge head stamps must match the caliber stamped on the rifle barrel.  I have also read that AI cartridges are used, such as 30-06 AI.

I'm considering a .375 H&H AI. I would prefer a standard H&H, but this is a re-bore and that is not possible. I wonder if regular .375 H&H rounds would pass African customs for use in a .375 H&H Imp.  How much matching must there be?   Do cartridge and barrel have to match exactly?  

I would consider a .375 Ruger, but brass seems to be hard to come by for this round. 

Offline JJHACK

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Re: Matching Cartridge Headstamps
« Reply #1 on: January 15, 2011, 10:17:19 AM »
The AI is no problem in RSA. The Head stamp does not have to match that close. If your using a good outfitter, the permits will be issued before you arrive and they won't even check the ammo. I issue all firearm permits to my hunters months before they arrive and you walk through customs and the permit process with an escort of mine fully trained in every aspect of this process. The Ruger 375 will be very difficult to find ammo for anywhere in Africa. It's a great American cartridge but the HH is still the king of all world wide big game hunting.
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Offline don heath

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Re: Matching Cartridge Headstamps
« Reply #2 on: January 17, 2011, 07:48:15 PM »
Wouldn't matter in Zimbabwe or Mozambique either

you can occasionally have a problem IF the caliber on the cases and the caliber on the paperwork doesn't match...eg the cases say .404 and the rifle (and paperwork) call it a .375 (the .404 necked down and blown out is a popular wildcat and there are two factory versions .375 Blaser and 9,5 x73 both of which can be formed from .404 brass).

Most common used to be .458 Lott...most of us used .416 rem cases before Norma and Hornady solved the brass supply problems. Living in Africa I never had a problem even with that and at a period when at every police roadblock they wanted to check the firearm ammo and paperwork.

Offline lgm270

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Re: Matching Cartridge Headstamps
« Reply #3 on: January 18, 2011, 05:51:39 AM »
Many thanks for your  informative replies.