What Are the Advantages of Nickel Plated Casings?

Reduced Friction

• Nickel is harder than the brass from which cartridge cases are made. The nickel plating on the outside of the case prevents dirt and grit from embedding in the surface of the case. This reduces the friction of the case as it works its way through the magazine, into the chamber prior to firing and then out of the chamber after the shooter fires the cartridge.

Corrosion Resistance

• Brass is susceptible to corrosion, especially if it is exposed to the elements. Leather cartridge belts, in particular, tend to cause brass to corrode. This corrosion may eventually damage the cartridge, and it can also interfere with the operation of the rifle or pistol. Nickel plating almost completely eliminates this type of corrosion.

Increased Visibility

• The case is the most expensive component of a cartridge. It is also the only reusable component. Shooting hobbyists who reload their spent cases must search the ground to retrieve any cases they may have dropped. This is a good idea even for those who do not reload. The problem is that unplated brass cases develop a patina upon firing, which makes them blend into the ground. A nickel plated case remains shiny even after firing, so it is much easier to spot.

Damage Visibility

• Scratches in a cartridge case can render it unsuitable for reloading. Also, once a case has been reloaded multiple times, it begins to wear out and develop thin areas. The patina that a brass case develops after firing can mask these danger signals. The nickel on a plated case is thin and relatively easy to damage, and the underlying brass tends to show through any scratches or other damage. This serves as an indication to the hobbyist to discard the case, rather than reloading it.