FC vs Winchester brass

[Kbeaton]

Figured id ask people who know more than me.
Do you prefer Federal brass or Winchester brass? And why?
.243 if it matters


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[Clcraig]

I’ve never noticed a significant difference. I buy whichever was more available/cheaper. For 9mm and other straight wall pistol At least.


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[Kbeaton]

I’ve never noticed a significant difference. I buy whichever was more available/cheaper. For 9mm and other straight wall pistol At least.


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Yeah for pistol I’ve never noticed either. I know bottle neck it does make a difference. I think it matters more to keep the same head stamp than it does manufacture.


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[Guy]

I've used quite a bit of Federal and Winchester brass for my 308 loads over the decades.

In general I've found the Federal to be a little thicker, and a bit softer. The primer pockets tend to enlarge rapidly and the brass can become useless after being loaded and fired a few times. I'm using near max level loads.

In general I've found the Winchester to be a little thinner, and harder. It tends to last a doggone long time.

Have built very accurate ammo with each type. I got a lot of Federal Gold Medal 308 brass for nothing, so continue to use it quite a bit. Just loaded some this morning. Once it's done, I just toss it.

If you wanted some real premium type brass, consider either Lapua, Norma, or Nosler. I've happily used those as well. Seems to be less brass-prep involved with those brands, but they are more expensive.

Regards, Guy

[Kbeaton]

I've used quite a bit of Federal and Winchester brass for my 308 loads over the decades.

In general I've found the Federal to be a little thicker, and a bit softer. The primer pockets tend to enlarge rapidly and the brass can become useless after being loaded and fired a few times. I'm using near max level loads.

In general I've found the Winchester to be a little thinner, and harder. It tends to last a doggone long time.

Have built very accurate ammo with each type. I got a lot of Federal Gold Medal 308 brass for nothing, so continue to use it quite a bit. Just loaded some this morning. Once it's done, I just toss it.

If you wanted some real premium type brass, consider either Lapua, Norma, or Nosler. I've happily used those as well. Seems to be less brass-prep involved with those brands, but they are more expensive.

Regards, Guy

This is great info thank you very much. I’m going to use up the rest of the brass I have then I will most likely invest in quality stuff.


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[Guy]

You're welcome. I used to compete in NRA long-range prone matches, well mostly 600 yard matches 'cause that's what my local gun club has. Used the 308 Win exclusively for several years and wore out a few barrels. Earned my long-range high master rank from the NRA, and never won another match going against the big boys!

I found that Winchester brass, prepped well, shot "high master" scores no problem. And it was a lot cheaper than the Lapua stuff. Nosler wasn't selling brass then.

Had to give up the prone competition due to neck injuries but I still load for and use the heck out of my 308 rifle.

Regards, Guy