I am told that using a steel .308 round or non-brass casing will damage the m1a. I find this hard to believe except if you fire more than a few thousand rounds. Is it a bad idea to purchase non-USA manufactured bullets or use the steel encased bulk ammo for hunting using an M1A or a DD DD5V1 AR10?

Question

James G. · Answer

Vincent, many do but I would call the appropriate manufacturer for advise since they ultimately have the last say on their firearm and warranty.

Rick C. · Answer

Vincent - It is said steel cased ammo will wear out the extractor.  If the rifle functions correctly with the steel casings, I would think it is priced so much less than brass that replacing an extractor every few thousand rounds wouldn't be a big deal. due to the money saved buying steel cased ammo.   I would think, though, the majority of the stel cased ammo would be FMJ type ammo, and not really the proper hunting ammo.  Also, I know for sure some AR-10 type rifles (and some AR-15s) will not function with steel cased ammo.  Yes, follow the manufacturers' recommendations for ammo for warranty purposes.  If they recommend no steel casings, and youhave a problem while shooting them, the manufacturer could well refuse to repair your firearm.

Randy I. · Answer

Your owners manual should give you ammo guidelines and I would follow their recommendations as far as using steel ammo goes That being said in most guns you would be fine but it will increase wear on parts like the extractor

Ask the Community