Thread: Halp... ammo doesn't fit

Had a few Federal Power*Shok 6.5x55 that were hard to close the bolt on. Most were ok.
Put the vernier on each one left in 2pkt and they all varied in the OAL

Originally Posted by SiB

... I know we're off-topic there from original thread - but admit I'm a passionate convertee to suppressed weapons.

Not at all -- all good tips thanks.

Hi, for reloaded ammo the usual place the dimensions get too big is at the shoulder. This can happen if it's fired in a gun with a long chamber then not full length sized back into SAAMI spec. I had this happen when I didn't realise I had to wind the die down to contact and after 3 or 4 firings they were starting to get a little bit squeezy. This shoulder headspace dimension can be measured using a .400" dia collar on the shoulder and it should be no more than 1.634". This is dimension B on the case drawing.

Less commonly, after many firings the case can grow in length and need trimming. This typically takes 5 - 10 firings to reach SAAMI max (2.015") if you start from min (1.995").

Rarely, the base diameter can blow out > .4703" but this means it has had been permanently damaged by too much pressure and needs to be thrown away.

If you post a picture of the ammo, someone here will be able to spot whether it has been reloaded.

It seems unlikely that any factory ammo or even fairly new reloaded ammo would be made so far out of spec it doesn't fit a factory chamber. Have a careful look at your gun. Is there a bit of dirt in the chamber or some gunk in the bolt recess where you can't see it ? Is the extractor sticky or pushing on the case somehow ?

Thanks for the info Bagheera. I've attached some photos of a typical unit but they all look very similar. I thought the small scuff marks and so on might indicate reloading, but the Federal and other name-brand stuff I've bought new from a store also looks like it was made in a tractor factory.

The chamber and bolt don't appear to have any obstructions.

Cheers

Sure is.