Thread: Federal and Federal Premium brass

Any long term experience amongst shooters on here? Sierra have always referenced Federal brass in their load data. I know it is heavier - thicker walled than NORMA and have heard conflicting opinions about its reloading life. A mate just weight checked some new Fed premium brass for .308 and it was very consistent.
Any solid experience of it here ?

Is there a difference between federal and federal premium?

I don't know. I am hoping for some experienced expertise to show up on here.

I've used it for my 7mm RM and .223 for years. They have been reloaded over 10 times and still going strong. Great brass.

Originally Posted by Dermastor

I've used it for my 7mm RM and .223 for years. They have been reloaded over 10 times and still going strong. Great brass.

Is that Fed or Fed premium?

Woody, i have a heap of FC .308 brass here that I'm preparing for first reloads and asking the same questions. Given how much blue box federal get sold there should be plenty of user experience about. General internet forum feedback is pretty consistent on this topic. Brass quality is ok. Heavier, thicker than WW brass and a touch softer.

Reload life in the range of 5-10 loads dependent on how much you hot rod it, primer pockets go first as you would expect. I'd likely revalidate my load data up front if your running it hard.

Yes. I've used sh fed brass in mild 308 win loads mv 2650 / 150 gn with 2208 and very very accurate and fine for most hunting and zero bras problems.
So, because my usual norma brass for my 6.5*55 is now an erratic uncertain supply I am considering Fed as an alternative; if it is available. If it is available it will probably be a lot cheaper than norma or lapua too I suppose.

I've used 6.5x55 federal [ex blue box] in a reasonably stiff load of 48gr of 2209 behind a 120gr Bt for years now, out of 60 original cases I've lost more than I've needed to junk, so they have worked ok for me.

Thanks chaps. I will look for a supplier.

Have used plenty of Federal brass in 308, 7mm08 and 300WSM with no problems. It’s a bit thicker and heavier than brass like Norma so you reach pressure with slightly less powder.

Originally Posted by Woody

Thanks chaps. I will look for a supplier.

Let me know if you find one. I need some too

Originally Posted by Woody

Is that Fed or Fed premium?

All standard Fed I wouldn't think there was a difference.

Originally Posted by superdiver

Let me know if you find one. I need some too

WILCO.