Steel Cased Ammo

Question
Hi. I'm not a reloader, so I always look for ways to save on ammo. I've never used Wolf ammo before, because I've heard that steel cased ammo (as opposed to brass) can damage a gun's extractor. Is this true? I've put a lot of $$$ into my favorite gun--a SIG P220ST-- so obviously I don't want to do anything to damage it. Thanks.

Answer
Hi Matt,

When it comes to issues such as this my advise is always, "when in doubt- don't". Usually you will never be sorry.

More specifically, I do not have any confirmed reports of steel casings causing extractor problems however I'm sure that it is possible and no doubt has happened to "someone".

With Wolf steel ammo I would be more concerned about the chamber. Steel casings have been known to cause excessive chamber wear in guns with tight chambers.

I also have had reports of squib loads and excessively erratic velocities from Wolf ammo.

With the quality firearm that you have, I doubt that shooting small quantities will do any damage. HOWEVER, why risk it?

My advise to you is to stay with a load that has a brass or aluminum case. There are plenty on the market that are nearly as inexpensive as the Wolf brand and you won't have to be concerned about steel cases causing any problems.

I have been advised that Wolf is supposed to be marketing ammo with brass casings called Wolf Gold. However, I do not know if they are doing so in your caliber of choice. It would be worth checking into.

Also some of the Blazer, MagTech, and S&B ammo is relatively inexpensive. I have not however researched the availability/price. You may want to research these options.

Thank you for the question Matt.
Sid Lark