30-30 brass

[stoneman]

I have some brass that i cleaned and wanted to know if these were still safe to reload, a few have scratches and discoloration. The discolored brass is smooth to the touch.

[Hick]

I've never encountered any problem with discolored 30-30 brass. The main worry, of course, is case weakening due to corrosion. As long as the discoloration is only surface level-- not corrosion, I don't worry about it.

[rancher1913]

if you feel pitting you might want to pitch it but if it feels smooth then they are fine.

[popper]

Shot a few like that a few days ago, no problem. I hadn't seen that discoloration before. Toss pink and green.

[runfiverun]

the black is zinc oxidization.
green is copper corrosion.

[upnorthwis]

I take a special delight in loading the nastiest brass I can find. Then go to a match to show them that it's not all about clean brass, it's about shooting.

[725]

Just inspect the brass and look for obvious failures. Split neck, splitting shoulder, etc. I usually check suspect brass with a "feeler". Take a coat hanger and cut a straight piece 6" / 8" long. Bend a "L" shaped end by securing in a vise and beating to a 90 degree shape. Grind a sharp wedge flat point in the same direction as a "hoe". Make it 1/8 th or 1/4 inch long. Use that tool to scrape the inside of the case. Should feel smooth all the way to the web. Usually when cases are ready to let go, the area just ahead of the base of the case starts to thin. When it does, it will feel rough. If it's rough, toss the case.

[stoneman]

Thanks everyone for your input, i will put it all to good use.