loading the 460 S & W in an Encore

[irold]

Gentlemen :   The last batch of 460's I loaded ( 20 ) were loaded with 47 gr. of W-296 , pushing a 240 Horn XTP MAG, and  CCI 200 primers. Not a max load according to my manuals.  About half the cases separated a 1/4 inch or so above the rim. I had looked at and cleaned them before reloading, also needed about .006 off every case. I can't say for sure, but I think they've been trimmed at every reloading.  Anyone else having excessive stretching with the 460.  These cases were on their 4th  loading, Hornady cases.  No signs of excessive pressure either.  Any opinions ?  As usual , thanks !

[Grumulkin]

Actually, I've had about the same think happen in mine; incipient head separations.  I've never had this happen in a straight wall case before so I think it has something to do with the much higher pressure generated in the 460 S&W compared to other handgun cartridges.

I now run a paper clip with the end bent at a 90 degree angle down the inside of the cases after I've fired them.  If I feel a little irregularity or grove near the case head, they go into the trash and I've had no more problems.

[irold]

Thanks, Grum, I was a little baffled and concerned !  At least I'm not the only one to have this problem.  I'll try the paperclip trick.......Any idea how many loadings your getting from your cases ?  Wonder if a different case would be better...perhaps Starline ??   Thanks again,  Mike

[Grumulkin]

Actually, I use Starline brass.  It's my impression, that if loads are quite conservative, the brass will last longer but I didn't get a 460 S&W Mag. to be conservative.  I would say I get 4 or 5 loadings out of my brass.

There is another factor to consider that I haven't had a chance to test fully yet.  The 460 S&W case is quite long and one wouldn't have to full length resize it.  I'm going to dry not sizing the cases for so great a distance and see if that makes a difference.

[irold]

Thats a thought, I normally wouldn't think of neck sizing a straight walled case.  I'll have to get the mic's out and do some checking on a fired case.  Thanks for the info......Mike