7.62x39 brass

7.62x39 brass

The 7.62x39mm cartridge, originally designed for the Soviet AK-47, is one of the most iconic and widely used rifle rounds in the world. This intermediate cartridge is known for its balance between power and recoil, making it suitable for both military and civilian applications. For reloaders and ammunition enthusiasts, the quality of the brass used in 7.62x39mm cartridges is of paramount importance. Brass quality affects not only the performance of the ammunition but also the longevity and reliability of the brass cases during reloading.

Lapua: The Gold Standard in Brass Manufacturing

When discussing 7.62x39 brass, one cannot overlook the contributions of Lapua, a Finnish company renowned for producing world-class ammunition components. Lapua's brass is often considered the gold standard in the industry, sought after by reloaders and precision shooters alike.

High-Quality Raw Materials and Superior Smelting

Lapua’s commitment to excellence begins with the selection of high-quality raw materials. The process starts with superior smelting and metallurgical competence, ensuring that the brass is free from impurities and meets the strictest industry standards. This meticulous attention to the raw materials ensures that Lapua brass is not only durable but also capable of withstanding the rigors of repeated reloading.

Focus on Quality Control

Throughout the production process, Lapua maintains an unwavering focus on quality control. Every step is monitored to ensure that the brass meets the company’s exacting standards. This rigorous quality control is what sets Lapua apart from other manufacturers.

Attention to Hardness, Solidity, and Grain Structure

Particular attention is paid to the hardness, solidity, and grain structure of the brass. These factors are crucial in determining the brass’s ability to withstand the pressures generated during firing and reloading. The grain structure, in particular, affects the brass’s malleability and resilience, ensuring that it can be reloaded multiple times without losing its integrity.

Testing for Overpressure Compliance

Lapua brass is tested to withstand 30% overpressure according to the standards set by the Commission Internationale Permanente (CIP), the European agency responsible for overseeing ammunition and component producers. This rigorous testing ensures that Lapua brass is not only reliable but also safe to use in a wide range of firearms, even under the most demanding conditions.

Brass Preparation: Addressing Common Issues

When purchasing bulk rifle brass, it is not uncommon to encounter cases that are “out of round” or have slight dents below the shoulder. These imperfections often occur during the final tumbling wash operation, particularly after the case mouth has been annealed. While these cosmetic flaws might be concerning at first glance, they generally do not affect the performance of the brass.

Mitigating Case Imperfections

Brass manufacturers, including Lapua, are aware of these cosmetic issues and have implemented measures to mitigate them. However, due to the design of the equipment used in the manufacturing process, some denting may still occur. Reloaders can easily address these minor imperfections during the case preparation process, ensuring that the brass is ready for loading.

Conclusion

For reloaders seeking the highest quality 7.62x39 brass, Lapua remains the premier choice. Their dedication to using the best raw materials, coupled with a meticulous production process and stringent quality control, results in brass that is second to none. Whether you are reloading for precision shooting or general use, Lapua’s 7.62x39 brass offers the reliability, durability, and performance that serious shooters demand. Despite minor cosmetic issues that may arise in bulk purchases, the overall quality and performance of Lapua brass make it a preferred option for discerning reloaders around the world.