Can You Use Steel Ammo in a Belt Fed?
The debate about using steel ammo in belt-fed weapons has been ongoing for years. Some claim it’s perfectly safe, while others warn of catastrophic consequences. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of steel ammo and belt-fed weapons to provide a definitive answer to this question.
What is Steel Ammo?
Before we dive into the main topic, let’s define what steel ammo is. Steel core ammunition, also known as steel-cased or non-jacketed ammunition, is a type of ammunition that uses a steel core instead of a copper or brass jacket. This design allows for a more affordable and durable cartridge, making it popular among budget-conscious shooters.
What are Belt-Fed Weapons?
Belt-fed weapons, also known as belt-fed machine guns, are firearms that use a continuous belt of ammunition to fire. These weapons are typically used in military and law enforcement applications, where a high volume of firepower is required. Belt-fed weapons are designed to fire continuously, with the belt of ammunition feeding into the chamber as the weapon is fired.
Can You Use Steel Ammo in a Belt Fed?
Now, let’s get to the main question: can you use steel ammo in a belt-fed weapon? The answer is NO, you should not use steel ammo in a belt-fed weapon. Here’s why:
- Rimfire: Steel ammo can cause rimfire issues in belt-fed weapons. The steel core can cause the rim of the cartridge to become deformed, leading to misfires and malfunctioning.
- Oiling Issues: Steel ammo can also cause oiling issues in belt-fed weapons. The steel core can absorb oil, causing the weapon to malfunction or even seize up.
- Corrosion: Steel ammo can corrode the internal components of a belt-fed weapon, especially in humid or wet environments.
- Safety Concerns: Using steel ammo in a belt-fed weapon can pose safety concerns. The steel core can cause the cartridge to become unstable, leading to unpredictable behavior and potentially causing injury or damage.
Why are Belt-Fed Weapons Designed for Brass Ammo?
Belt-fed weapons are designed to use brass-cased ammunition for several reasons:
- Reliability: Brass ammo is designed to provide a consistent and reliable feeding system, which is critical in belt-fed weapons.
- Durability: Brass ammo is more durable than steel ammo and can withstand the high pressures and velocities generated by belt-fed weapons.
- Cleanliness: Brass ammo leaves a cleaner bore than steel ammo, reducing the risk of corrosion and fouling.
What are the Consequences of Using Steel Ammo in a Belt-Fed Weapon?
If you do decide to use steel ammo in a belt-fed weapon, you can expect the following consequences:
- Malfunctions: Steel ammo can cause the weapon to malfunction, including misfires, jamming, and failure to feed.
- Corrosion: Steel ammo can corrode the internal components of the weapon, leading to premature wear and tear.
- Safety Risks: Using steel ammo in a belt-fed weapon can pose safety risks, including unpredictable behavior and potentially causing injury or damage.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, using steel ammo in a belt-fed weapon is not recommended. The risks associated with steel ammo, including rimfire issues, oiling issues, corrosion, and safety concerns, far outweigh any potential benefits. Belt-fed weapons are designed to use brass-cased ammunition, and using steel ammo can compromise the reliability, durability, and safety of the weapon.
Table: Comparison of Steel and Brass Ammo
| Steel Ammo | Brass Ammo | |
|---|---|---|
| Rimfire Issues | High risk | Low risk |
| Oiling Issues | High risk | Low risk |
| Corrosion | High risk | Low risk |
| Safety Concerns | High risk | Low risk |
| Reliability | Low | High |
| Durability | Low | High |
| Cleanliness | Low | High |
Recommendations
If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to brass ammo, consider the following options:
- Bi-Metal Ammo: Bi-metal ammo uses a copper or brass jacket and a steel core. This design provides a balance between the benefits of steel ammo and the reliability of brass ammo.
- Steel-Cased Brass Ammo: Steel-cased brass ammo uses a steel casing and a brass core. This design provides the durability and reliability of brass ammo while reducing costs.
In conclusion, while steel ammo may seem like a cost-effective option, it’s not recommended for use in belt-fed weapons. The risks associated with steel ammo far outweigh any potential benefits, and using brass ammo is the safest and most reliable option for belt-fed weapons.
