Case life when reloading

You can go either way, just depends on the cartridge being reloaded, and personal preference as to sort/number per reloads, or dump and inspect method.

I don't usually go towards max loads, but sometimes have to scrap casings for the following reasons.

45ACP- Usually last a long time, I scrap most of mine when there is a dent/crease in the sidewall, they are usually small, and I'm wondering if it isn't happening when the warm casings hits the gravel at the range.

7mm Rem Mag- Mostly get about 6 reloadings out of these. Even though I don't use max loads, the primer pockets seem to get loose.

257 Roberts- Only casings I've scrapped in this is the ones that kinda crush. I'm forming them from 7mm Mauser casings. Have had 2 cracked necks(out of 100 casings).

40S&W- Same as 45ACP.

7mm-08,308- Have had many reloadings of both with out having to scrap, unless I do something stupid at the bench..(forgot to put the base plate on when trimming)...
 
Most people use the paper clip method of inspecting the inside of rifle cases. Also look for split case necks and loose primer pockets.
 
I set my full length sizing dies for bottle necked cartridges to set the shoulder back just enuff for reliable chambering, anneal after 5 firings & they`re like the energizer bunny ,keeps on going. I do not load balls to the wall loads ,I feel the % of gain in fps/energy just ain`t worth the wear & tear on guns/shooter.

Straight walled cases trim to length & when groups open up (hard to tell with my shooting):o I anneal the mag handgun , toss (scrap bucket, mine) in the bucket all other calibers when signs of splitting or primer problems.

I do keep my spent primers separate , small primers will tear a possums but up at 20 yds or so in a 1oz loading from a 20 ga. , but will hardly penetrate cardboard at 40.
 
There are so many variables that it is almost impossible to speculate as to case life. I have some 6 Br Norma brass that I know is pushing being reloaded 50 times. Might be over 50. I run the brass through a body die that custom made to my chamber. I use a busing die on the neck that puts very slight neck tension on the bullet. You can grab the bullet with your thumb and forefinger and pull it.
If you set a full length die to camover, and your rifle has a chamber that is on the large end of spec. then you can expect 4 or 5 loadings (max) on a piece of brass.
 
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