Difference Between Steel & Brass Casing

Using the best type of ammunition for your weapon can prolong its life and make it easier to clean. While steel bullet casings are generally less expensive, brass is more popular for several reasons.

Brass Casings

The most common case for small arms bullets is made of a brass alloy. It is the easiest to manufacture and the most popular casing. Brass casings also provide better accuracy and can be easily reloaded after use.

Steel Casings

Steel casings are less expensive and harder than brass, but because guns are also manufactured of steel, the steel casing can increase wear on your weapon and leave a greater amount of residue inside the chamber. Steel casings can also crack more easily when reloading the cartridge.

Fun Fact

In 1944, the U.S. Lincoln "wheat" penny was manufactured from salvaged bullet casings.

References

• Made How: Ammunition
• HiPoint Firearms: Steel vs. Brass
• Coin Collecting Guide: Lincoln Cents