[steve4102]

I have a bunch of K&P (Lapua) 7.62x39 brass. I have been loading it for years without issue. I just read that K&P 7.62x39 brass is "Balloon Headed" an obsolete design and should not be reloaded. True??

Here is a picture of the offending brass.

[BK63]

If I were you I would throw away that peticular casing

[steve4102]

Originally Posted by BK63

If I were you I would throw away that peticular casing

Good one!

[Jim Watson]

That is not a balloon headed case.

[BOGE]

Originally Posted by Jim Watson

That is not a balloon headed case.

Ditto.

[GioaJack]

Originally Posted by Jim Watson

That is not a balloon headed case.

Jim's right... a balloon headed case has no traditional web... it's hollow down to the top of the rim... the primer pocket sticks up unsupported.

As long as you're not near max loads there's really no problem loading them. Pretty common with older .45 Colt brass... I never had a case head separation.

Jack

[steve4102]

Thanks, I knew if I came here I would get it right.

Thanks Again

[ede]

only ballon head i've ever seen was in cartridges like 45 colt and 44 spl. i'd be willing to bet you'll never see it on a rifle case or military caliber. if we wait i'm sure someone will post a pic to prove me wrong.

[380Seecamp]

Balloon head case on the right:

[CTSixshot]

Thanks for the clear picture, 380Seecamp. I've heard the term, primarily in reference to 45 Colt brass, but I really wasn't sure what it meant. Now it's plain to see!



steve4102: My experience with reloads in the Lapua brass has been quite satisfactory. Even the M43 green wooden blank brass has been reloaded okay. It appears to be standard brass, albeit berdan-primed, but it sizes and works for regular 123gr jacketed loads. Come to think of it, all of the Lapua brass I've used is berdan-primed, but until my primer supply is exhausted, it all works fine.