trimming .357 max cases to fit .357 mag

[Jason_W]

With pickings being slim for reloading components, if someone got a deal on .357 max cases, could they be trimmed for use in a .357 mag?

[JustaJeepGuy]

Are Max cases easier to find than Mag cases? That's new! I believe that you can trim them down, but it seems so wasteful. I'd say get the Max cases, and trade them off. Maybe on http://ammobrasstrader.com

[cas]

Easier to trade them 1 for 1, or even 2 for 1 for .357 mag brass.

[AJMD429]

Are Max cases easier to find than Mag cases? That's new! I believe that you can trim them down, but it seems so wasteful. I'd say get the Max cases, and trade them off. Maybe on http://ammobrasstrader.com

I agree. Plus, the brass might be different enough to have less volume than ordinary .357 Mag brass, due to thicker web or whatever. AND I think it is set up for RIFLE primers (due to significantly higher pressures) vs. pistol ones, so the pockets may be slightly deeper.

If I had a bunch of excess .357 Mag brass and you had a bunch of .357 Max brass, I'd definitely trade, since I have a .357 Max Contender, but I don't have excess .357 Mag brass, and I really do have enough .357 Max for the Contender - it isn't exactly a 'high-volume' gun, and isn't hard on brass, either...

[Tycer]

Do not even try.

The Max cases are way thicker, way closer to the neck than a Mag. Just get used Mag brass from the same box or lot and you'll be good to go. Straight walled cases can be reloaded many times.

[Hobie]

If you ever run into so many Max cases that you'd consider such a thing, drop me a line. I'm sure I can get you Mag cases in trade. Plus you won't have to deal with overly thick case mouths after you trim 'em back.

[Ysabel Kid]

Like others said, you'd be leaving money on the table. I get you could get 2 for 1 easily...

[AJMD429]

Straight walled cases can be reloaded many times.

Especially if you don't load them really 'hot' - which you don't have to do in a .357, unless you're trying for bear. As several posts before have shown, the 180 grainers at moderate velocity will drop deer quite well.