Case head sep

praetorian97 · August 16, 2011, 12:53 AM

Just got done checking 760 rounds of 223/556 for CHS. How often do you guys find cases about to separate? I hear I'll know when I feel one with a paper clip but so far nothing.

PA-Joe · August 16, 2011, 06:42 AM

Head separation primarily occurs with bottleneck cases. You should be able to get 5-10 reloads before any signs unless you are over working the shoulders or are reloading very hot.

Hog Buster · August 16, 2011, 07:45 AM

It’s been my experience that cases split or primer pockets get blown out long before any case head separation occurs. I guess that if you have excessive head space it may occur more often in auto/semi-auto weapons. The last, and only, case head separations I’ve ever had was with a Browning 1919A4 many years ago, caused by improper head space adjustment. I never check cases for it anymore.

August 16, 2011, 12:53 AM	#1
praetorian97 Senior Member Join Date: May 9, 2011 Location: Boise, ID Posts: 441	Case head sep Just got done checking 760 rounds of 223/556 for CHS. How often do you guys find cases about to separate? I hear I'll know when I feel one with a paper clip but so far nothing.

August 16, 2011, 07:45 AM	#3
Hog Buster Senior Member Join Date: October 26, 2009 Location: Pointe Coupee, Louisana Posts: 751	It’s been my experience that cases split or primer pockets get blown out long before any case head separation occurs. I guess that if you have excessive head space it may occur more often in auto/semi-auto weapons. The last, and only, case head separations I’ve ever had was with a Browning 1919A4 many years ago, caused by improper head space adjustment. I never check cases for it anymore. __________________ Those who beat their guns into plows, will plow for those who don't.-Thomas Jefferson

August 16, 2011, 06:42 AM	#2
PA-Joe Senior Member Join Date: June 9, 2010 Location: NEPA Posts: 661	Head separation primarily occurs with bottleneck cases. You should be able to get 5-10 reloads before any signs unless you are over working the shoulders or are reloading very hot.