HSM Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count Review

Everything You Need to Know About the Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count

Reloading ammunition is a passion and a necessity for serious shooters like myself, allowing for customized loads and significant cost savings. The Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count promises a reliable source of brass for my reloading projects, and I was eager to assess its quality and consistency. After years of scavenging brass at ranges and meticulously sorting through mixed lots, the allure of a consistent batch of once-fired .40 S&W brass was strong.

I’ve spent years meticulously crafting ammunition for everything from competitive shooting to personal defense, so brass quality is paramount. My go-to brass has always been new Starline, but the cost adds up. I’m always on the lookout for a more economical, but still high-quality, option. The Hsm Ammunition name is known for reasonable quality, so it seemed like a worthwhile purchase.

Upon receiving the package, the first thing I noticed was the clean appearance of the brass. It was surprisingly uniform in color and relatively free of the dents and dings I often find in range-collected brass. Compared to a mixed bag of range brass I had been sorting through, these cases were visibly cleaner and more consistent. My initial thought was cautious optimism – could this be the reliable source of brass I’ve been searching for?

Real-World Testing: Putting Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved prepping and reloading 50 of the cases for a range session. I used my standard reloading process: cleaning, resizing, belling the case mouth, priming, charging with powder, and seating the bullet. The brass fed smoothly into my resizing die, indicating consistent dimensions. I did notice a slight variance in case length after resizing, but it was within acceptable tolerances.

At the range, the reloads performed flawlessly in my Glock 22. Accuracy was consistent with my established reloads using new brass. There were no signs of excessive pressure or case bulging. I did notice that some of the cases seemed a little soft after firing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and multiple reloading cycles, the Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count held up reasonably well. I experienced a few case splits after the third reloading, which is not unexpected for once-fired brass. The brass was easy to clean in my vibratory tumbler. The primer pockets remained relatively tight, even after multiple firings.

Compared to some of the mixed brass I’ve used in the past, this brass provided a more consistent and predictable reloading experience. While it didn’t quite reach the durability of new brass, it certainly outperformed the average range pickup brass. Overall, I was satisfied with the reliability and performance, especially considering the cost savings.

Breaking Down the Features of Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count

Specifications

The Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count consists of 100 pieces of once-fired, unprimed .40 S&W brass casings. These cases are designed for reloading .40 S&W ammunition and are made from standard brass alloy. The approximate dimensions of the package are 1.75 x 2.75 x 5.25 inches, with a height of 1.75 inches.

• Caliber: .40 S&W
• Quantity: 100 cases
• Condition: Once-fired, unprimed
• Material: Brass alloy
• Dimensions: 1.75 x 2.75 x 5.25 inches

These specifications are important because they directly impact the reloading process and the performance of the finished ammunition. The consistency in caliber is crucial for proper chambering and firing. The once-fired condition suggests the brass has undergone one firing cycle, which can affect its work hardening and potential lifespan.

Performance & Functionality

The Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count performs its intended function of providing reloadable brass for .40 S&W ammunition. The cases are generally consistent in dimensions and weight, which aids in achieving consistent reloads. The performance is slightly below that of new brass, particularly regarding the number of reloading cycles possible before case failure.

The primary strength is the cost savings compared to new brass. The main weakness is the reduced lifespan and potential for inconsistencies compared to new, unfired brass. For high-volume shooters, the Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count meets expectations as an economical alternative to new brass, provided you are prepared for a slightly shorter lifespan.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is standard for .40 S&W brass casings. The brass is of average quality and consistency for once-fired casings. The weight is typical for .40 S&W brass, providing good balance during reloading.

The brass is easy to handle during the reloading process. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this brass. However, it’s essential to inspect each case carefully for signs of damage or excessive wear before reloading.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count is less than that of new brass. Expect to get fewer reloading cycles per case compared to new brass. Maintaining this brass is straightforward: cleaning after each firing is crucial to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth resizing.

Regular inspection for cracks, splits, and primer pocket looseness is vital for safe reloading. Proper storage in a dry environment will help to prolong the lifespan of the brass. The brass is relatively easy to maintain, requiring standard reloading equipment and cleaning solutions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count does not come with any accessories, as it is simply a collection of brass casings. However, it is fully compatible with all standard reloading equipment and components for .40 S&W ammunition. This includes dies, primers, bullets, and powder.

The brass can be customized with different bullet types and powder loads to achieve specific performance characteristics. The compatibility with a wide range of reloading components makes it versatile for various shooting applications. The reloader can tailor the ammunition to their specific needs, whether it be for target shooting, hunting, or self-defense.

Pros and Cons of Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count

Who Should Buy Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count?

This product is perfect for high-volume shooters looking to reduce their ammunition costs. It is also well-suited for reloaders who prioritize affordability over maximum case lifespan. The Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count is a good option for those who reload for practice or casual target shooting.

This product is not ideal for shooters who demand the utmost reliability and consistency from their ammunition. Those seeking the longest possible case life and absolute uniformity should stick with new brass. Competitive shooters or those reloading for self-defense may also prefer new brass for its enhanced reliability.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality case gauge to check the dimensions of the reloaded ammunition. A good vibratory tumbler and cleaning solution are also essential for maintaining the brass. Consider investing in a primer pocket uniformer to ensure consistent primer seating.

Conclusion on Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count

The Hsm Ammunition Brass .40 S&W Once Fired Unprimed 100 Count offers a solid value proposition for reloaders seeking an economical alternative to new brass. While it doesn’t quite match the durability and consistency of new brass, it provides a reliable and cost-effective option for high-volume shooting. The price is justified by the savings compared to new brass and the generally consistent quality of the casings.

I would personally recommend this product to reloaders who are comfortable inspecting and sorting brass before reloading. If you are looking to save money and don’t mind a slightly shorter case lifespan, this is a good choice. It’s a great way to keep your .40 S&W fed without breaking the bank. Give it a try, and happy reloading!