Rusty brass

[Billett]

Hi,

I pulled out my clay shooting ammo bag from a cupboard of mine its been off the floor for around a year.

There were some surpluses shotgun cartridges which show a slight sign of rust



Are they going to be ok to shoot?

Thanks

[ColinR]

For a start they are not brass, but steel plated with a thin layer of brass. If touching leather or cloth for a prolonged period in a cartridge bag they will be affected as you report where they are in contact with the bag material which is moisture absorbent. Take some 400 grit emery cloth and gently remove the rust. If it is only surface without any deep pitting I think you will be OK. However, if they have been in a damp environment the powder and or primers may also be affected. Not sure I'd want to shoot them though.

[Rarms]

Yes fine. Shoot them

[Billett]

They have been under the stairs no water near them laying in the bottom of the bag.

I opened up the new boxes I have in the same place and they are no where near as bad maybe 1mm worth.

I guess ill have to go shooting... Shame!!!!

[ColinR]

They have been under the stairs no water near them laying in the bottom of the bag.

I opened up the new boxes I have in the same place and they are no where near as bad maybe 1mm worth.

I guess ill have to go shooting... Shame!!!!

You don't need water near them as leather and cloth will readily absorb moisture from air. The reason never to leave guns in slips as this is a sure recipe for rust. So what do you think started this reaction?

[Billett]

Just an update.

I spent Saturday night lightly sanding the rust of with some fine sandpaper just to smooth it off so it wouldnt damage or scratch my gun.

I then used them all on Sunday without any issue, back to my terrible 50% scoring in a 60 bird sporting.