Will 7.62X51 surplus ammo that does not pass the magnet test cause excessive wear on the chrome-lined barrel of my AR-10 semi-auto? I understand the concept that steel jacketed ammo will not seat as easily into the rifling as copper coated lead ammo,but is this something I need to worry about?
Steel Jacketed .308, Bad?
- Thread starter AR-10
- Start date
Charmedlyfe
Moderator
Yes, it'll damage your rifle bore. Tell ya what, If it's Hirtenberger, I'll pay the shipping and you send it all to me for proper disposal.....
No.
The steel used in the jackets is a very low carbon rimmed or capped unkilled steel chosen for its deep drawing characteristics. A steel barrel is a chrome-moly alloy, chosen for its strength and hardness.
The steel jacket is almost as soft as the 95-5 copper/zinc alloy used elsewhere plus it doesn't work-harden nearly as fast as the latter. The only major problem with steel is corrosion. That can be abrasive so most steel jackets are copper-washed, a very thin copper plating. Others are lacquered which is really bad for accuracy and dirt.
The steel used in the jackets is a very low carbon rimmed or capped unkilled steel chosen for its deep drawing characteristics. A steel barrel is a chrome-moly alloy, chosen for its strength and hardness.
The steel jacket is almost as soft as the 95-5 copper/zinc alloy used elsewhere plus it doesn't work-harden nearly as fast as the latter. The only major problem with steel is corrosion. That can be abrasive so most steel jackets are copper-washed, a very thin copper plating. Others are lacquered which is really bad for accuracy and dirt.
Charmedlyfe
Moderator
Well, I tried.....But hey, the offer still stands!
Thanks Keith J,for the explanation. Based on your info,I'm not going to worry. I thought that must be the case,as just about every brand of surplus ammo I've tried is made with a copper washed steel jacket lead core bullet.
And George,once again,I thank you for your generosity. I'm sure I would do the same if given the chance.
Oh,check with Tshoes down in the thread "308 Surplus Ammo Connoisseurs". He seems kind of put out with his ammo!
Thanks guys.
And George,once again,I thank you for your generosity. I'm sure I would do the same if given the chance.
Oh,check with Tshoes down in the thread "308 Surplus Ammo Connoisseurs". He seems kind of put out with his ammo!Thanks guys.