.38 Special R-P Mid Range Brass?

[PBSmith]

I've got some R-P .38 Special brass cases that have a single cannellure or ring of serration marks about 1/4" (one quarter inch) down from the case mouth. Are these wadcutter or mid range cases?

If not, were they intended for loading with another specific type of bullet?

[skeettx]

Only one cannellure?

Most 148 grain Target Rem ammo has two

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/594084/remington-target-ammunition-38-special-148-grain-target-master-wadcutter-box-of-50

The regular 158 grain lead round nose ammo has one cannellure

http://www.sportsmanswarehouse.com/sportsmans/Remington-UMC-38-Special-158-gr-Lead-RN-Handgun-Ammo/productDetail/Handgun-Ammunition/prod9999007835/cat100130

[PBSmith]

Thanks, skeet. I believe you answered my question. Yes, my brass has only one cannellure, and looks just like the link you posted for 158-grain round nose Remington ammo.

Next question: does this single cannellure indicate the depth to which a 158-grain round nose bullet should be seated? Or is it simply a way Remington distinguishes different cases?

[skeettx]

LeadSmith
The factory cannellure is helpful in keeping the bullet from moving forward to lock the cylinder or back to compress the load.
In reality it is not really needed in most situations, a good crimp will do the same thing.

Just forget the cannellure and load and shoot the brass.

Mike

[tazman]

skeettx is correct.

[SSGOldfart]

I've got some R-P .38 Special brass cases that have a single cannellure or ring of serration marks about 1/4" (one quarter inch) down from the case mouth. Are these wadcutter or mid range cases?

If not, were they intended for loading with another specific type of bullet?

Both but mostly used for full wadcutters

[bedbugbilly]

Most of what I shoot in my 38s is "range brass" and I see these often. I just ignore it. Load them to the correct OAL and shoot 'em. I've loaded just about everything in them - RN, WC, SWC. I just put aa mild to moderate roll crimp and they are good to go.