Originally Posted by
megasupermagnum
I've used all the calibers I listed in post #51. I have not done too much with the 357 magnum or 45 acp brass, ond only tried 444 marlin once. I have used it quite a bit in 41 and 44 magnum. The caliber I've used the most by far is 327 federal.
327 federal I've gone to sorting the brass based on how hard it expands, it is quite a problem. While it does last, it does not perform. The thickness is not a problem in this caliber. The 444 marlin I tried to form into 309 JDJ, which was a disaster. The stuff doesn't size down at all. I ended up having to anneal every single piece of brass, then sizing down in steps. Remington brass, which was stupid expensive, you can size down in one step, with no annealing. Now I know why it costs more. I honestly have not had any problems in 41 magnum. That batch seems to be good. 44 magnum seems consistent, but WOW does it size and expand hard. The first time I used a NOE expander in them without lube, it is a miracle I didn't rip the rim off.
I won't pretend like everything else is all roses. I can't make the claim for long range rifles, but for handguns, I have had NONE of these problems with Winchester, Federal, or Hornady brass. I've had nothing but great luck with Remington too, and some people hate that stuff. I'd say Starline is likely right in there with the generic brands, S&B, Magtech, etc.
It works, it's cheap, but I'd rather have something else.