mixing brass

[aldar]

does using a brand of brass other than whats called for in certain reloading data make a difference? what are your thoughts on using mixed lots of brass for reloading? does using another brand of brass than whats called for change the load specs in anyway? is there any brand/type of brass to stay away from? will be reloading for CF rifle only and was just wondering about these things, and have'nt found any answers yet

[bigjeepman]

I think the best rule of thumb is to never mix brass in reloading. I use all Winchester brass so I never have to worry about other brass with different capacities resulting in possible pressure issues.

[stimpylu32]

For my CF rifles i keep the brass to one brand per cal. , my 223 and 218 Bee i use Win.

And for my 22-250 , 270 , 47/70 and 450 Marlin i use Rem. all of my pistol are midway brass only because i got a deal on a BUNCH of it years ago .

Yes , mixing brass can make a diffrence , more so when using max or near max loads , the case cap. will change from one brand case to another , some only slightly but it can make a diffrence .

stimpy

[beemanbeme]

Your best accuracy usually comes from grouping the brass into like groups.  Unless you're motoring you rig at or near the top end, your only loss will be in accuracy.  In truth, the loss in accuracy is often so small as to be a non-factor in a hunting rifle but sometimes it can be pretty dramatic. Only your rifle can let you know.
As far as using components other than what is called for in the particular receipe, most folks do that.  They have a certain bullet or primer or case that they prefer (or that's what they have on hand) and they substitute.  But they do a start low and work up approach to the receipe. A good rule of thumb is anytime you change a component, back off 10% or so and start over with a new work up.
Often you will find that a change in components will change the POI and the powder "sweet spot".

[Zcarp2]

For low pressure plinking rounds, all my pistol brass is mixed.  I do separate 9mm and 380 due to smaller case capacities and higher pressure.

Rifle hunting brass is segrated for accuracy.  Low pressure practice loads have all been worked up to the same load level.  Mid to low level and I don't see any significance difference in different head stamps at 50 yards.

In short, for high pressure loads - I would segrate and work up loads.  For low pressure, plinking loads, everything works.  Most of my plinking is with 45 ACP and 44 Magnum light loadings.  Large case capacities and lower pressure.  

Try it and see.

[Catfish]

If you through in mil. brass into the mix it can make things dangerious. I use to shooy a .270 that I would load up with upto 64 grns of 4831, but with formed mil 06 brass the cases would only hold 58 to 59 grns. of 4831. I no that is extreem and that the formed brass was a big part of the wide vereation, but even with some comersial brass I could only get 62 grns.