Trending Archives - Talking Guns


Mike MillsapDecember 13, 202412min95940

 

By Mike Millsap

Ammunition is a crucial component in firearms, and its casing plays a significant role in
determining the overall accuracy, reliability, and longevity of the firearm. When it comes to
centerfire ammunition, two of the most common materials for casings are brass and steel.
While steel-cased ammunition has become a popular, lower-cost option, brass-cased
ammunition continues to dominate the market, especially among enthusiasts, military
personnel, and law enforcement agencies. This article explores the reasons why brass-
cased ammunition is considered superior to steel-cased ammunition in most
circumstances.

Introduction: A Brief Overview of Steel vs. Brass-Cased Ammunition
Ammunition cases, or shell casings, are an essential part of any centerfire cartridge. These
casings house the primer, powder, and projectile, and play a critical role in the firing
process. Historically, brass has been the material of choice for cartridge casings, but in
recent years, manufacturers have begun to use steel as a cost-saving alternative.
Steel-cased ammunition is often favored by budget-conscious shooters due to its lower cost
compared to brass. This is particularly evident in calibers like 9mm, .223 Remington,
7.63×39, and .308 Winchester, where steel-cased ammo is widely available. However, brass
casings have maintained their popularity for several key reasons, including better
performance, durability, and compatibility with a wider variety of firearms.

This article will examine the various factors that contribute to the superiority of brass over
steel, including reliability, performance, ease of reloading, and the overall impact on
firearm longevity.

Material Properties: Comparing Brass and Steel
To understand why brass is generally considered superior to steel for ammunition cases, it
is important to look at the fundamental properties of both materials.

Brass: Composition and Characteristics
Brass is an alloy composed primarily of copper and zinc. It is widely used in ammunition
casings because it possesses a combination of desirable mechanical properties:
• Ductility: Brass is highly ductile, meaning it can be easily shaped without breaking.
This makes it ideal for manufacturing smooth and reliable casings.
• Corrosion Resistance: Brass resists corrosion better than steel, making it more
durable in different environmental conditions.

• Strength and Elasticity: Brass is strong enough to withstand the pressure
generated during firing, but it is also elastic, which means it can expand and contract
without cracking or warping.
• Workability: Brass is relatively easy to machine and form into complex shapes,
making it ideal for mass production of ammunition.

Steel: Composition and Characteristics
Steel, on the other hand, is an alloy made primarily of iron and carbon, with additional
elements such as chromium and manganese. Steel offers several advantages in terms of
strength and hardness but also has some inherent limitations when compared to brass:
• Hardness: Steel is harder than brass, which makes it more resistant to wear.
However, this can be a double-edged sword when used in ammunition cases.
• Brittleness: Steel tends to be more brittle than brass. While it can be very strong, it
is more likely to fracture or crack under extreme pressure or stress.
• Corrosion: Steel is more prone to rusting than brass, especially if it is not properly
coated with a protective layer such as lacquer or polymer.
• Less Ductility: Steel is less ductile than brass, meaning it is harder to shape and
form into the precise specifications required for ammunition cases.
Reliability: How Steel and Brass Perform in Firearms
One of the most important considerations when comparing steel-cased and brass-cased
ammunition is their reliability in firearms. Reliability refers to how well the ammunition
functions during shooting and how often it causes malfunctions, such as jams, misfeeds, or
failures to eject.

Feeding and Ejection
Brass casings are more reliable in feeding and ejecting from firearms due to their ductility
and elasticity. Brass expands when fired, creating a tight seal with the chamber and
preventing gases from leaking around the casing. This results in consistent pressure and a
smoother firing cycle. After firing, brass contracts, allowing it to easily be ejected from the
chamber without binding.

Steel-cased ammunition, however, does not expand and contract in the same way as brass.
Steel is less elastic, so it may not form as tight a seal in the chamber. This can lead to the
“sticking” of the casing inside the chamber, especially in firearms that are not well-
maintained or have tight tolerances. In addition, steel casings are often coated with a
lacquer or polymer finish to prevent rust, which can create additional friction and make
feeding and ejection less smooth.

As a result, steel-cased ammunition is more likely to experience feeding issues and failures
to eject. These malfunctions can be frustrating for shooters, especially in high-stress
situations where reliability is paramount.

Firing Consistency

The consistency of firing is critical for accuracy and performance. Brass casings tend to be
more consistent in terms of dimensions and pressure tolerance. This consistency
contributes to reliable ignition and uniform firing behavior, which is essential for
maintaining accuracy and reducing the likelihood of jams or misfires.

Steel-cased ammunition, while generally reliable, may suffer from less consistency due to
the variations in steel alloy composition, the coating used, and the manufacturing process.
As a result, shooters may experience more variation in the performance of steel-cased
ammo, especially in long-range shooting or high-volume shooting environments.

Impact on Firearm Longevity
The longevity of a firearm is another critical consideration when choosing between steel
and brass-cased ammunition. Over time, repeated use of certain types of ammunition can
affect the wear and tear on a firearm, particularly the chamber and extractor.

Wear and Tear on the Chamber
Brass is more gentle on a firearm’s chamber because it expands and contracts smoothly
during the firing process. The elasticity of brass allows it to create a tight seal in the
chamber without causing excessive friction. This minimizes the wear on the chamber walls
and reduces the risk of excessive buildup of carbon or other residues.
Steel, due to its hardness and brittleness, can cause more wear on the chamber over time.
As steel expands less than brass, it may not form as tight a seal, which can lead to the
buildup of carbon and other debris in the chamber. In addition, steel casings are more
likely to leave behind small fragments of material during the extraction process, leading to
more frequent chamber cleaning and maintenance.

Extractor and Ejector Damage
Steel-cased ammunition can also cause more wear and tear on a firearm’s extractor and
ejector mechanisms. Because steel is harder than brass, it can create more friction during
the extraction process. This additional friction can increase the likelihood of extractor
damage or failure, especially in semi-automatic firearms that require frequent extraction
cycles. Over time, this can lead to malfunctions and more expensive repairs.

In contrast, brass is less abrasive and less likely to cause damage to the extractor or ejector.
As a result, firearms that primarily use brass-cased ammunition generally experience fewer
maintenance issues in these areas.

Reloadability: The Cost Advantage of Brass
One of the key advantages of brass-cased ammunition is its reloadability. Reloading
involves cleaning and reusing spent brass cases to create new rounds. This is an
economical option for serious shooters who go through large quantities of ammunition.
The reloading process also allows for greater customization of ammunition, including
changes in bullet weight, powder charge, and primer type, which can improve performance
and accuracy.

Steel-cased ammunition, on the other hand, is typically not reloadable. This is due to the
hardness of steel and the coatings often applied to the casings. The steel is more difficult to
resize and reform after firing, and reloading it can be more time-consuming and costly.
Additionally, the coatings used on steel casings can make it difficult to clean the cases
effectively, further reducing their viability for reloading.

For shooters who prioritize cost savings and are willing to put in the effort to reload, brass
is the clear choice. While steel-cased ammo is initially cheaper, it offers little long-term
value for reloading purposes.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Another important consideration is the environmental impact of brass vs. steel
ammunition. Brass is a recyclable material, which means that spent brass casings can be
collected and reused in the production of new casings. This makes brass a more sustainable
choice in the long term, especially for shooters who recycle their spent casings.
Steel is also recyclable, but it is less commonly recycled for ammunition production due to
the added complexity of removing coatings and other contaminants. Additionally, the
mining and processing of steel have a higher environmental footprint compared to copper
and zinc, which are used in brass. Therefore, while both materials have some
environmental impact, brass is generally considered to be a more eco-friendly option.

Conclusion: Why Brass-Cased Ammunition Is the Superior Choice
While steel-cased ammunition offers a more affordable initial cost, brass-cased
ammunition is the superior choice in terms of reliability, performance, firearm longevity,
and reloadability. The ductility, corrosion resistance, and consistency of brass make it ideal
for ammunition casings, while steel’s hardness and brittleness introduce several
challenges, including increased wear on the firearm, feeding and ejection issues, and
limited reloading potential.

For shooters who prioritize long-term value, reduced maintenance, and the ability to
reload their ammunition, brass remains the gold standard. While steel-cased ammunition
may serve as a budget-friendly option for casual shooters or those looking to shoot high
volumes of ammunition, it falls short when compared to the overall benefits of brass.

References:
• McPherson, G. (2008). Fundamentals of Firearm Ballistics. Paladin Press.
• Hatcher, J.S. (1935). Hatcher’s Notebook: A Manual of Firearms Knowledge. Stackpole
Books.
• Brownells. (2021). The Basics of Reloading Ammunition. Brownells Guides.
• Tann, S. (2014). The Science of Ammunition: Case Materials and Ballistics. Springer.



Tony CieroSeptember 14, 20243min253740

The Beretta 1301

When it comes to modern semi auto shotguns, option overload is a thing. Prices range wildly, from entry level to a mortgage payment. Today we will discuss one option in particular that, while expensive, is stacked in the value department. The Beretta 1301 tactical.

When I was growing up, my grandfather was full of one off advice. One such anecdote went as such, “ if you’re buying a gas saver, always go Japanese. If you’re buying a working truck, buy American. If you’re buying a shotgun, can’t go wrong with Italian.” Many of these sayings I have found to carry merit, the last one especially so.

So what makes the 1301 tactical so much better than its peers? In short it’s an addition equation more than anything. Ergonomics, excellent. Aesthetics, that’s a check. Reliability, phenomenal. The same can be said about other shotguns at a lesser price point, but few have all of them.

My experience with the 1301 has been very good in my sample size of 1. The first thing I noticed upon the first handling of the gun was how light it was. Honestly I was not looking forward to shooting it due to the laws of physics. Light shotguns regularly equate to sore shoulders with a heavy firing schedule. However, I am happy to report that the recoil impulse was very smooth, extremely linear, and surprisingly soft considering weight. Color me surprised.

At this point in time, I have shot somewhere in the neighborhood of 3500 rounds of assorted ammunition through the 1301. I can count on one hand the number of stoppages I have experienced. I’ve run it dirty, in the cold, in the heat, and the 1301 chugs through it all unscathed. Basic cleaning and lubricating was the only  maintenance performed.

Aftermarket parts for the 1301 tactical are available and usually in stock. I particularly enjoy the Aridus Industries line of products, and have several parts on my shotgun. Be careful though, modifying this shotgun is addicting.

I have had many people ask me for my thoughts on the 1301 tactical. My opinion can be summed up quite simply, “buy with no reservations.” I have found it to be a lightning fast cycling, ultra reliable, and overall enjoyable shotgun to use. It has quickly become one of the firearms that always seems to find its way in my range bag when I leave the house.

 

 

Photography by Joe Lutrario

Written by Jim Sanford



Tony CieroJuly 14, 20242min180250

By now most of you have seen the Nero 556, Nero 9mm and Nero 762 from Walker Defense and how well they eliminate muzzle rise and felt recoil.

Did you know Talking Guns has been thoroughly testing the NERO 762 on one of our custom 300 Win Mag Bolt Action rifles?

While the results have been nothing short of incredible. Let me start by saying this was not something we were supposed to be doing, after running the Nero 762 on several different platforms, to include the SCAR17, PWS MK216, AERO AR-10 and a 7.62x39mm AR-15;  We thought it would only be appropriate to do something Walker didn’t expect or know about. The Nero was not run on Bolt Actions rifles before this, so we wanted to utilize a round that was much more powerful than the common 168 gr 308, that was currently being used for testing, you know, something that had a little more gusto. Naturally the 300 Win Mag is known for larger recoil and all around more robust round, but damn it’s a great round that with the right optics and platform, can really get out there and touch something, accurately and repeatedly.

The Nero 762 reduced felt recoil to that of an AR15 or so. It wasn’t even as much as an AR10 in felt impulse.

As you can see from the videos it really gives a straight back and level push with 2 of our shooters.

We tested the Nero 762 with Federal Premium 300 Win Mag ammo, loaded with the lead-free Barnes TSX monolithic 180-grain hollow-point bullet.

More info to follow on the Walker Defense Product line and the Nero 762.

 

 

 

Photography by Jason Mcdonald

Video and editing by Mike Kovacs



Tony CieroJanuary 29, 20247min118320

 

It really is too bad that Glock already consumed the model designation “22” in 1990 with the release of the Glock 22. Being a full sized frame variant of the famous model 17 (circa 1988) chambered in 40 S&W. Fast forward a scant 30 years and we see the release of the Glock model 44 chambered in 22 LR. The same missed opportunity for synergy goes down like the Glock 45 chambered in 9 MM and the Glock 40 chambered in 10 MM.

Glock has a well deserved reputation for innovation and reliability. They are also in a position to use their prowess and capability to stand the entire concept of a pistol on its head, again. The industry is ready for something like they saw in late 80’s. With their plastic frames and a design that has been built upon ever since.

Leading up to the 2020 release, as is typical of the industry, the hype and marking machine speak of “something new” coming from Glock. There was much teasing and build up starting mid 2019. The Glock 44 is billed as the next big thing. When unveiled and it is as a Gen 5 compact frame chambered in 22 LR the online reaction oscillated between let down and confusion.

Being open to new ideas, our initial judgment was withheld. The concept was studied and considered. Admittedly, it is a nice idea and it might have a place. Picture range day, with just one of those spiffy Glock factory cases. Inside is a Gen 5 model 19 and a Gen 5 model 44. Ammo needed is just a box of 9 MM and a couple bricks of 22 LR.

Spend a morning working on fundamentals of pistol marksmanship with the cheaper 22 ammo. Associate each pull of the trigger with only the recoil of a pea shooter. Then finish with some 9 MM to apply and gauge effectiveness of the training session. Since the ergonomics of the 22 LR pistol match the 9 MM. There are no training barriers to overcome or changes to manipulating the pistol. No recoil induced bad habits have been introduced. All this without even the need to change a holster.

However, does the experienced pistol shooter and long time Glock customer really need this? Consider an every day carry Glock 19 Gen 3. It has a couple of million miles on it and it is just starting to break in really nice. The user might have elected to skip a Gen 4 upgrade for a few reasons. The biggest of which is likely the fact that there is nothing wrong with the tool that they already had.

Also consider something like the Ruger Mark III pistol in 22 LR. There are also millions of these in circulation. Most fill the role of the fun gun on outings or range day with newbies. That newbie will often shoot a couple magazines though it. Then when asked if ready for something bigger, they give the affirmative and rarely look back.

Now after producing millions and millions of pistols, four previous generations, for 30 years. Glock has done a good job meeting the needs of experienced shooters. So the target audience to really jump onto the Glock 44 and maximize on this nice idea, are really going to be new shooters. While the new and inexperienced should be welcomed and given tools to succeed. Glock gave little consideration to their existing user base. Proof of this is seen in the feature set of the launch.

The Glock pistol mag is considered an icon. They are bomb proof, feed well, and set the bar for what a standard capacity magazine should be (15 rounds on a standard G19 mag). This is one reason why you see it cloned, often poorly, by other manufacturers. The form factor is often used in everything non-Glock. From the pistol caliber AR to something like the KelTec Sub2k.

However, the initial 44 release only sees a single stack 10 round mag with a new first, a thumb assisted follower. While Glock reports they are working on a higher capacity variant. It’s worth noting the physical area occupied by a G19 magazine (15 rounds of 9 MM). Will physically hold upwards of 30 rounds of 22 LR. There was no attempt shown to improve upon that round count. This really only keeps that “nice idea” afloat for the new shooters. There is a lot of room for innovation in this area but Glock chose not go above and beyond their competition or serve the more seasoned shooter.

Staying on theme, the rest of the unexciting initial release has no skus with barrel threading, Again, Glock reports that they will have one, but they are not on shelves today. There is no MOS (Modular Optic System) support. The only sighting system supported in the classic polymer sights with no enhanced options offered. Understand that with the slide top being polymer Glock only recommends polymer sights as installing metal ones might damage that polymer. While these issues might be resolved in future releases or in aftermarket. No attempt has been made to compel existing customers.

As expected, range time spent with the model 44 reveals that it is fun, just as expected. The lighter slide is easy to articulate, the magazine is easy to load. Ergonomics aside, the behavior of the polymer steel hybrid slide performs like any other blowback 22 LR. However it still manages to leave the shooter wondering where the innovation is. It is not found in the features, design, or performance. While there are some shooters who will benefit from his nice idea. It is simply too little too late for the majority.

 

Video by Mike Kovacs


Joseph-Lutrario-bjj-Talking-Guns-Talkingguns.net_.webp

Joe LutrarioJune 17, 20233min58560

 

Get “Back on the Mat” is what a fighter strives to do. It’s a place where self achievement and growth is measured through blood sweat and tears.  Yet the mat is not just a physical place, but a spiritual battleground as well. Yes, it’s a combative arena, a chessboard so to speak. However, there is another aspect, another dimension. A manifestation of a persona, an ideal. “An Avatar”.

 

It’s not just the physical fight or the pursuit of belts. It’s what transpires day after day on the mat, in the subconscious, and in the brain. Most will be called to this art for the obvious…the physical attributes, the knowledge of safety, security, the ability to fight. Yet those that dedicate time, effort, heart, and all of themselves to more failure than success come to the realization that this lifestyle truly is a journey through life, that without the knowledge, balance and confidence one learns, would be empty, lonely and superficial at the very least. 

Those that step on the mat consistently for years enter a safe place not of this world. It’s a world where the rules are plain to see and apply to everyone equally. A sanctuary where one can be alone with oneself, no stresses, or pressures from the daily, mundane rituals of the average life outside this realm. The ability to think without thinking, move without moving yet flowing without effort, is what draws these Avatars to this Eden on earth. It’s nothing short of an addiction to what can be in every aspect of one’s life.

 Simply put, the goal of this journey is to acquire enough knowledge, enough experience so one can take their Avatar off the mat and live by the laws of the idealistic world and utilize them in the world of the rest.

By Joe Lutrario

 

 

 

Photo by Mike Kovacs



Brian KovacsApril 22, 20231min290440

Talking Guns and www.talkingguns.net Founder Brian Kovacs appears on Newsmax TV to discuss the Constitutional Crisis unfolding day by day in the great state of Virginia.

We talk about the plans of Sheriff’s departments and civilian agencies, as well as the fact that the governor wants to disarm the state of basically all type of Firearms.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://talkingguns.net #talkingguns #conservative #constitution #rights #government #virginia #news #live #tvshows #tv #tvshow #tvseries #jonathangilliam #briankovacs

 



Joe LutrarioOctober 1, 20224min68910

It takes years of consistent work and effort. Once achieved, a new journey begins. The responsibility should be clear. Passing on the experience and knowledge to those who are on the journey and in need of a teacher. For some this may be a burden, others a delight. In reality it’s a lot of both.

It’s not nearly enough to just pass on technique, it’s not nearly enough to show what it takes to win a championship, it’s definitely not right to be a selfish player in a sport, and it certainly is unacceptable to just take the character, the knowledge and hide it away from all those who seek it. The only thing that’s acceptable is to be a commander, a coach and of course a teacher.

You see, Jiu Jitsu is a lifelong journey. It’s a “Triade”, a word from French origin meaning a trinity, a triangle. One side of the Triade is the self-defense aspect. Jiu Jitsu was developed as a means of self-protection. A way a person can defend themselves in a real life- threatening situation. We all know the stories of how Master Helio developed BJJ for people like himself. A smaller weaker person can be capable of fending off a much larger, stronger assailant. Without this angle there is no second one, which is the sport aspect of Jiu Jitsu. A way for one to test and hone their skills in a non-lethal manor. An arena where technique and sportsmanship come together to raise each other up and aide in the development of everyone’s “game”. That’s exactly what this angle is…a game.

These two angels sit atop of the third angle, a base which is called character. This base is the one that holds all three angles together. Not only does it prevent warriors and athletes from tearing each other a part, it teaches us how to be the best person we can be in all aspects of our lives. As we march through this sojourn we call BJJ, we learn from our training certain tools. Tools that teach us, prepare us and most importantly build us.  The base of this Triade gives us the experience and knowledge to be able to set the right example to all those who we come in contact with. It carries the load of enabling us to be the best commander and warrior, the best coach and the very best teacher of life’s values on and off the mat with the purest of heart. 

Without the proper AND equal development of each of these angles we lose the perfect, purest system of growth. As a Professor, it is our fundamental duty to ensure that each student grows and develops their own perfect Triade so they can some day pass that perfection on. Without the proper training in all three aspects of Jiu Jitsu one can never fully develop and what a selfish tragedy that would be.

 

Photo by Mike Kovacs



Joe LutrarioFebruary 22, 20225min50200

The BJJ academy has many “classrooms”, from the vestibules, the mats, to the locker-rooms. The people we meet in the vestibule are encouraging and delightful. The education we get on the mat is priceless. We all know the value of a great teacher and mentor. On a personal note, that is why I hold my professor, Milton Regis 6th degree black belt, in such high regards. Yet there is something enormous to say about the atmosphere and friendship that is built in the locker room.

When people struggle, sweat and face their fears together, there is a strong and special relationship that is formed. An intimate bond so to speak. Coming from a man that can’t remember what he ate for breakfast, let alone specific words spoken amongst a group of warriors, there is a deep feeling of peace, camaraderie, safety and vulnerability that one cannot ignore or forget.  

I have come to a point in my training where I finally realize that my opponent in front of me is not my only adversary. Just as a true warrior would never underestimate his physical obstacles, he would surely recognize and control the greatest obstacle of all…himself. We all can hear the little voice in our heads speaking to us before, during and after a fight. You know, the one that speaks volumes about how you “can’t do this and you can’t do that”. 

We can sit back deny, ignore or flat out lie to ourselves and others, but that won’t change the fact that it is our own worst enemy…and the most powerful one at that. Just as we come to master the basics of our game, we must also come to master the enemy within. This is a worthy and inevitable fight that all of us must conquer at one point in order to be successful. Only when one rises above and controls the demons of self doubt and self pity, can he grow to be the best he can be. Let me take it further, not just successfully grow on the mat, but to grow to extreme heights in all aspects of their lives. 

This is a battle that needs to be fought not alone, for the enemy within is too deceiving and too strong. Don’t misunderstand me, it can and will be defeated. It will be conquered as a team. A legion of warriors, training and learning together on the mat. Meeting in the vestibules, exchanging handshakes and subtle hugs. Most importantly, it shall be defeated in the locker-rooms. Here, here is where we are at our strongest. Outside the pit of anguish which we call our minds, in the midst’s of fighters, real friends who understand, share, encourage and most important believe in each other. Here is where lifelong bonds and pacts are made. Not just simply from voice boxes, but from ones gut and heart. The faith and belief we have in each other squelches the screams of self doubt. We hear only the whispers of our fellow fighters..Our friends. 

All people are born champions. However, it is only those who get tempered, molded and forged by the heat of battle that come to realize who they are and what they can achieve. We all reach the inevitability of this fight…rest assured my friends, I will be there standing side by side fighting with you, just as I pray that you stand beside me.

 

Photo by Mike Kovacs


Kioto-Southwest-BJJ-talking-guns-talkingguns.net_.webp

Tony CieroSeptember 2, 20213min63090

 

Anacondas are members of the boa constrictor family of snakes. Thus meaning they kill their prey by quickly striking and controlling their victim until it is too exhausted to fight, and their prey begins to suffocate. The will of the sufferer has been broken. 

Anacondas rely on stealth and the element of surprise to catch their unsuspecting prey. This jungle predator keeps its victim at bay, by controlling their actions while frustrating and exhausting its adversary. Taking advantage of its opponent’s weary and defeated attitude, the Anaconda methodically goes on the offensive and with precision; it only alerts its victim of their demise at a time when it’s too late.

 Like the Anacondas of the jungle, the great BJJ practitioner is a disciplined attacker. He is confident, patient and ready to attack at the most opportune moment. He quickly strikes, controls his opponent, matching move for move looking for the slightest light out of the tiniest window of opportunity given by his challenger or maybe even created by his own masterful mind. The BJJ artist acknowledges his adversary as a competent and dangerous foe. He engages in an active game of combat chess, exploding with bursts of speed and agility, while conserving energy and exalting exceptional deceit and precision.

The fighter is aware that in any given moment the tide can be turned. He realizes he must control the tempo. Too much wasted strength… too tired to continue. Too much hesitation…. he loses the race. The charmed grappler exalts a streaming flow between attacks and control leading to the final objective….submission.

The patient, free flowing contest on the mat is a way of life engrained in the champion fighter beginning at a time when the mat appeared to be nothing less than a jungle crawling with Anacondas and other fearless predators.