SAAMI FAQs
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Q:
Can I use 5.56x45mm, 5.56 or 5.56 NATO ammunition in a firearm chambered for 223
Remington (223 Rem)?
A:
NO!
It is not safe to shoot “5.56” “5.56 NATO” or “5.56x45mm” (“5.56”) ammunition in a firearm
with barrel marked as being chambered in 223 Remington for a number of reasons. The main
reason being that a barrel marked as chambered in 223 Remington will have a shorter throat
into the rifling than a “5.56” barrel which may cause increased pressure when the “5.56”
ammunition is fired in it. This can result in serious injury or death to the user and/or bystanders,
as well as damage to the firearm.
However, it is safe to use SAAMI-compliant 223 Remington ammunition in firearms with a barrel
marked as chambered in “5.56.”
If you are unclear about which ammunition is appropriate to safely use in your firearm, consult
the firearm owner’s manual or contact the firearm manufacturer for further guidance.
Q:
Can I use 223 Remington ammunition in a firearm chambered for 5.56?
A:
Yes.
It is safe to use SAAMI-compliant 223 Remington ammunition in firearms with a barrel marked
as chambered in “5.56.”
However, it is not safe to shoot “5.56” “5.56 NATO” or “5.56x45mm” (“5.56”) ammunition in a
barrel marked as being chambered in 223 Remington for a number of reasons. The main reason
Page 1 of 22
being that a barrel marked as chambered in 223 Remington will have a shorter throat into the
rifling than a “5.56” barrel which may cause increased pressure when the “5.56” ammunition is
fired in it. This can result in serious injury or death to the user and/or bystanders, as well as
damage to the firearm.
If you are unclear about which ammunition is appropriate to safely use in your rifle, consult the
firearm owner’s manual or contact the firearm manufacturer for further guidance.
Q:
How do I know if the ammunition I am purchasing is SAAMI “approved” or “certified”?
A:
SAAMI does not “approve” or “certify” firearms or ammunition products. SAAMI creates the
voluntary standards for performance, dimensions, and other characteristics. In order to
determine if a particular product was made in accordance with those voluntary standards,
contact the manufacturer.
Q:
I would like to become a SAAMI member. What is required to do that?
A:
SAAMI membership is open only to corporate entities, not individuals. To qualify for
membership, the company must be a domestic primary manufacturer, or designer of sporting
firearms, ammunition, components, or propellant selling within the United States.
For more information, please see: http://www.saami.org/membership/index.cfm
Q:
Where can I get my ammunition tested?”
A:
SAAMI does not conduct independent product testing. There are several independent testing
companies capable of testing product to the SAAMI standards, including:
-
H.P. White Laboratory Inc.
Q.C. Metallurgical, Inc.
Chesapeake Testing
Dayton T. Brown Inc.
Barnes Bullets, LLC
Disclaimer: SAAMI makes no recommendation on any of these testing companies. You should
conduct due diligence on any product testing firm to determine the company’s expertise to
conduct any test you would ask them to conduct.
Page 2 of 22
Q:
What is a “Wildcat Cartridge”?
A:
A “Wildcat Cartridge” is a cartridge for which the dimensions, performance and pressure levels
standards have not been set by SAAMI.
Q:
How does my cartridge design become a SAAMI standard?
A:
Only a Voting or Associate SAAMI member company is allowed to submit a cartridge and
chamber design for consideration of acceptance to the SAAMI Technical Standards.
Q:
What are the dangers of repeated re-chambering of a cartridge or shotshell in a firearm?
A:
The repeated re-chambering of a cartridge or shotshell in a firearm may cause physical damage
to the case or hull, which could prevent the cartridge or shotshell from firing. It can also
damage the primer pellet, resulting in a misfire. Repeated re-chambering of a cartridge can
push the projectile deeper into the case and thereby reduce internal case volume and increase
chamber pressure. Do not repeatedly re-chamber the same cartridge.
Q:
Auto or ACP, decimal point or no decimal point? I often see cartridges/chambers referred to
as 45 Auto, 45 ACP, .45 Auto, and .45 ACP. Is one, or are all formats correct?
A:
There are a number of pistol cartridges that fall into this category, and in accordance with the
ANSI/SAAMI standard, Z299.2-2015, there are only two recognized names for each cartridge – a
full and an abbreviated version. For these, the correct, recognized presentations are 25
Automatic (25 Auto), 32 Automatic (32 Auto), 380 Automatic (380 Auto), 38 Automatic (38
Auto), and 45 Automatic (45 Auto).
A decimal point is never included preceding the numerical caliber component of any cartridge
name. That is, “308 Win” is correct, but “.308 Win” is not. Of course, decimals are included as
needed in metric cartridge names such as the 6.8mm Remington SPC.
Q:
How do I obtain assessment values for reference ammunition?
A:
Reference ammunition assessments may be purchased from the SAAMI Technical Office.
Page 3 of 22
Q:
How is chamber pressure of ammunition measured?
A:
Measuring firearm chamber pressure is a quality control procedure associated with the loading
of ammunition. However, because chamber and barrel dimensions also affect pressure, a
necessary part of the understanding of any recorded pressure level is knowing the precise method
and with what equipment the results were obtained. SAAMI has taken great care in creating
standards which define, in detail, the methods and equipment which it recommends in order to
assure reproducible and meaningful results.
In spite of many years of research, no economical or simple substitute has yet been found for the
complicated and expensive methods and equipment used by firearms and ammunition
manufacturers for pressure determinations.
Published pressure data is only valid for measurements made using equipment as detailed in
ANSI/SAAMI Z299.1, .2, .3 and/or .4 when calibrated and operated in accordance with the
procedures therein.
Q:
What is the difference between LUP, CUP and PSI pressure designations?
A:
For many years gun chamber pressure units had been commonly referred to as “pounds per
square inch”, which was not technically correct. The older method of pressure measurement
involves a piston through the side of the chamber compressing a lead or copper cylinder in
which the measurement of the degree of compression is indicative of the maximum relative
pressure generated. With the advent of the electronic transducer, it became necessary to
indicate by some means the method and equipment used to determine the pressure values
given. This is important, since the pressure values determined by one method cannot be
mathematically converted to values for another, despite claims to the contrary. Likewise, the
limiting pressure values for the different systems are not interchangeable.
SAAMI created the designations of “Lead Units of Pressure” (abbreviated LUP) and “Copper
Units of Pressure” (abbreviated CUP) to clearly indicate the system used in determining pressure
results and/or limits. These designations apply only to values with the particular crushers, test
gages and methods as outlined in SAAMI technical procedures. The terms LUP and CUP
represented a change in name only. The pressure testing equipment, techniques and the
numbers themselves are essentially the same as those associated with pressure units expressed
as so many “pounds per square inch” prior to the advent of the piezoelectric transducer
method. The term “psi” (pounds per square inch) is now reserved for electronic (piezoelectric)
methods of measuring pressure, which is the predominant system in use today.
By convention, units of pressure are reduced by a factor of 100 when put in tabular form. For
example, 100 LUP is actually 10,000 LUP. 480 CUP is actually 48,000 CUP and 220 psi is actually
22,000 psi.
Page 4 of 22
Q:
How is the velocity of shotshell ammunition measured?
A:
There are two primary methods of measuring shotshell velocity, one using optical screens and the
other using inductance coils.
The optical screens rely on the shadow created by the shot passing between a light source and a
detector to generate the start and stop pulses needed to trigger a chronograph. Predominantly,
the optical screens are used for measuring the velocity of non-lead slugs and some non-lead shot
loads where the material will not be sensed by inductance coils.
The inductance sensor is composed of two coils of wire spaced three feet apart that are part of a
tuned oscillator circuit. The inductance of the coils is changed as the shot charge passes through
and the change in oscillator frequency is detected with a frequency modulation (“FM”)
discriminator circuit that provides the output pulses used to trigger the chronograph.
The method preferred by the ammunition industry uses the inductance sensing technique that
provides more uniform results due to the fact that the velocity is sensed at the trailing, and
characteristically the most dense, portion of the shot string and not by stray or leading pellets
which can trigger optical screens. When this happens, the elongation of the shot string can cause
optical screens to trigger on different parts of the shot string, causing erroneous, high, velocity
readings.
Q:
What is the difference between “recoil” and “felt recoil”?
A:
The gases generated by the burning of propellant in a firearm exert a force that not only pushes
the bullet or shot charge forward out of the barrel, but also drives the firearm back against the
shooter.
From a shooter’s perspective, there are two aspects to recoil. One, absolute recoil, the other “felt
recoil”. Absolute recoil is described by invariable laws of physics while the “felt recoil” can be
varied and is described as what the shooter actually senses.
Absolute recoil or recoil momentum (mass x velocity) of the firearm is only roughly equivalent to
momentum of the bullet or shot charge, since the wads and propellant gases, which are
discharged at the muzzle, also contribute to the total weight being ejected.
The most practical method for determining recoil momentum is in a firearm that is free to move,
as for example, when it is suspended as a pendulum. This permits calculation of recoil velocity
and recoil energy; the latter usually expressed in foot-pounds, is a conventional way of recording
and comparing recoil.
Felt recoil may be lessened by increasing firearm weight or by the use of compensating devices.
Page 5 of 22
Tables of recoil energy are by no means infallible as a guide to the actual sensations that are
experienced by the shooter; this is particularly true when comparing autoloading and manual
loading firearms. Other aspects of a firearm’s construction and fit, e.g. stock length, drop and
pitch may also influence felt recoil.
The most significant variables in felt recoil are those that are involved in how the firearm is held.
The recoil effect of a shotgun fired while held just slightly away from the shoulder is very
noticeable. On the other hand, when the same firearm is held firmly against relaxed shoulder
muscles, the firearm reacts as though it was part of the shooter and recoil sensation is
considerably reduced.
Q:
How is Free Recoil Energy calculated?
A:
Recoil can be described mathematically by the physical law of the Conservation of Momentum.
The law states: “If a force and its reaction act between two bodies, and no other forces are
present, equal and opposite changes in momentum will be given to the two bodies.” Simply
stated, this says that for every action there is an equal and opposite (in direction) reaction.
The momentum, therefore, of a free recoiling firearm is equal and opposite in direction to the
momentum of the bullet (or shot charge and wad column) and the propellant gases. Because the
propellant gases are extremely difficult to weigh, for purposes of this application the propellant
gas weight will be equated to the propellant charge weight.
Free Recoil Energy (“F.R.E.”) is actually kinetic energy and so can be expressed
mathematically as:
Where:
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = ½𝑀𝑀𝑀𝑀 2
M = is the mass (or the weight of the firearm divided by 32.17) in pounds mass
V = is the velocity of the recoiling firearm in feet per second
To determine the velocity of the recoiling firearm we can use the formula –
Where:
𝑉𝑉 =
𝑊𝑊𝑒𝑒 ×𝑉𝑉𝑒𝑒 + 𝑊𝑊𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝 ×𝑊𝑊𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝
7000×𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
We = Weight of the ejecta (bullet or shot + wad column), in grains
Ve = Velocity of ejecta in feet per second
Wpg = Weight of propellant gases (use propellant chg. wt.) in grains
Page 6 of 22
Vpg = Velocity of propellant gases, in feet per second
7000 = Conversion factor for grains to pounds
Wf = Weight of firearm in pounds
If, therefore
𝑀𝑀 =
𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
32.17
Then
½𝑀𝑀 =
And
𝑉𝑉 =
𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
64.34
𝑊𝑊𝑒𝑒 ×𝑉𝑉𝑒𝑒 + 𝐶𝐶ℎ𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔×𝑉𝑉𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝
7000×𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
The Free Recoil Energy of a firearm can be described as:
2
𝑊𝑊𝑒𝑒 ×𝑉𝑉𝑒𝑒 + 𝐶𝐶ℎ𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔×𝑉𝑉𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝
𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
�
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = �
��
64.34
7000×𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
The weights of the gun, of the ejecta and of the propellant gases (or propellant charge)
are easily determined. The effective velocity of the propellant gas, a much more difficult
measurement, varies, in general, with the muzzle pressure and projectile velocity.
The following Vpg should be used:
High powered rifles
Shotguns (avg. length)
Shotguns (long bbl.)
Pistols and revolvers
𝑉𝑉𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝 = 𝑉𝑉𝑒𝑒 ×𝑓𝑓
, where for
𝑓𝑓 = 1.75
𝑓𝑓 = 1.50
𝑓𝑓 = 1.25
𝑓𝑓 = 1.50
(The above velocity relationships were derived from extensive experiments by the British,
published in “British Text Book of Small Arms” published 1929 and confirmed by later
work in this country.)
Page 7 of 22
EXAMPLE GUN RECOIL – TECHNICAL
NOTE: Firearm weight must be in pounds, ejecta and propellant charge in grains, and
velocity in feet per second. Free Recoil Energy will then be expressed in foot-pounds.
EXAMPLE: How much Free Recoil Energy would be developed by an average length
shotgun weighing 7 pounds firing a 12 ga 2¾” load of 1¼ ounces of #4 shot at 1,275 fps
with wads weighing 43 grains and loaded with 33.4 grains of propellant?
Therefore:
Wf = 7 pounds
We = Shot is 1¼ oz x 437.5 grains per ounce or 546.9 grains;
+ wads weigh 43 grs.
TOTAL: 589.9 grains
Chg. Wt. = 33.4 grains
Ve = 1,275 fps
f = 1.5 (For average length shotgun)
So –
2
𝑊𝑊𝑒𝑒 ×𝑉𝑉𝑒𝑒 + 𝐶𝐶ℎ𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔𝑔×𝑉𝑉𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝
𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
�
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = �
��
64.34
7000×𝑊𝑊𝑓𝑓
7
589.9×1275 + 33.4×1275×1.5 2
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = �
��
�
64.34
7000×7
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = [0.109]× �
752,123 + 63,878 2
�
49,000
816,001 2
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = [0.109]× �
�
49,000
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = [0.109]×[16.65 ]2
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = [0.109]×[277.3]
Answer: About 30 ft-lb
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = 30.22 ft-lb
The exact F.R.E. for a given shot would depend upon the exact weight of the shot charge and exact
velocity of that shot.
Page 8 of 22
Calculations may be made in the metric system if firearm mass is given in kilograms; ejecta and
powder charge mass in grams and the velocity in meters per second. The equation would then
take the form:
2
Where:
𝑀𝑀𝑓𝑓
𝑀𝑀𝑒𝑒 ×𝑉𝑉𝑒𝑒 + 𝑀𝑀𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝 ×𝑉𝑉𝑝𝑝𝑝𝑝 ×𝑓𝑓
𝐹𝐹. 𝑅𝑅. 𝐸𝐸. = � � × �
�
1000
2
Me = Mass of the ejecta (bullet or shot + wad column), in grams
Ve = Velocity of ejecta in meters per second
Mpg = Mass of propellant gases (use propellant charge mass) in grams
Vpg = Velocity of propellant gases, in meters per second
1000 = Conversion factor for grams to kilograms (for the ejecta and propellant
mass)
Mf = Weight of firearm in kilograms
The F.R.E would be given in Newton-meters, or joules.
Q:
What is Terminal (or “Striking”) Energy?
A:
The “yard stick” of terminal energy on a physical basis is the expenditure of energy into the target
media. The energy we speak of in ballistics is called kinetic energy, and is defined as the product
of one-half the mass of a body and the square of its velocity (½ m v2).
Wound formation is a direct function of the kinetic energy that is transferred into the target.
Kinetic energy that is not transferred into the target is wasted energy.
While kinetic energy is very important, there are other factors that must also be considered in the
effectiveness of a bullet to ethically harvest game. Structural damage, blood loss, nervous system
failure, and shock are some of the desired results of the work being done through the transfer of
kinetic energy. Other contributing factors to this end are bullet design, spin, velocity to stability
relationship, etc.
Page 9 of 22
Q:
Does barrel length affect accuracy?
A:
Test data currently available indicates that, within the barrel length limits of 18½” (47.0 cm) to
28” (71.1 cm), rifle accuracy is unaffected by the length of the barrel.
For shorter barrels, like those found on handguns, shooting accurately is made more difficult due
to a much shorter sight radius (the distance between the front and rear sights). As sight radius
decreases, slight deviations from perfect sight alignment are magnified.
Q:
What does “dram equivalent” mean on shotgun ammunition?
NOTE: The term ‘dram equivalent’ is obsolete and no longer used to express the velocity of
shot fired from shotgun shells.
A:
A dram was a measure formerly used for black powder and was normally used as a volume
measure (although strictly speaking, it is a weight measure equivalent to 1/16 oz. or 1/256 lb.). A
given dram charge of black powder imparts a certain velocity to a given weight of shot. For
example, three drams of black powder with 1⅛-oz shot in 12 gauge, a 3 dram equivalent load
produces a muzzle velocity of about 1,200 ft./sec. With the advent of the use of smokeless
propellant in sporting ammunition, a method was needed to relate the velocity for a given shot
weight of these loads to the black powder loads used previously. The “dram equivalent” system
was developed for this purpose, but modern loadings depart from the system in a number
instances as explained later.
Some shooters mistakenly believe a low dram equivalent is synonymous with low pressure. This
is not so, as all modern shotshells regardless of dram equivalent marking, gauge, brand, powder
or shot charge are loaded to approximately the same pressure level. Therefore, those who attach
a significance to the term “dram equivalent” in respect to chamber pressure are in error.
The main problem is that people still confuse a “dram equivalent” designation with a “dram
measure” of powder and this may be serious in the case of modern, fast-burning shotshell
powders. Taking the density of black and smokeless powders into account, a volumetric 3-dram
measure of such modern smokeless powders is approximately 40 grains (where a grain equals
1/7000 lb.) or about a double charge.
“MAX” or “MAG” DRAM EQUIVALENT LOADS
Steel shot, buckshot and slug loads as well as 410 bore loads were not equated to a dram
equivalent as they were introduced using smokeless propellant. These loads were usually listed
as either “MAX” or “magnum” (“MAG”) in the absence of a clear correlation to black powder load
velocities.
NEVER USE A DRAM AS A WEIGHT MEASURE FOR SMOKELESS POWDERS!
Page 10 of 22
Q:
Where can I find a school for ballistics?
A:
NOTE: There are four distinct and separate sciences under the generic heading of “ballistics”.
•
•
•
•
Internal or interior ballistics is concerned with what occurs inside a firearm in the time
between primer ignition and the projectile’s exit from the muzzle.
External or exterior ballistics is focused on the flight of the projectile after muzzle exit
and prior to impact.
Terminal ballistics is the study of impact events.
Forensic ballistics that examines the projectile fragments and other evidence in order to
establish a relationship between the projectile and a firearm.
There are few schools in the world that specialize in the teaching of the subjects of interior,
exterior and terminal ballistics. For information on forensic ballistics, one should visit the
websites for the NIJ (www.nij.gov) and/or BATFE (www.atf.gov).
The requirements for ballistics research or ballistics engineering are essentially no different from
those for any modern field of physical research. For advanced research in ballistics, it is almost
essential that the individual have the equivalent of a Ph.D. in physics. The problems involved
require a very thorough knowledge of advanced dynamics, acoustics, optics and thermodynamics,
along with advanced mathematics, electronics and statistics. The engineering phases of ballistics
research are probably best prepared for by a good course in electrical or mechanical engineering.
A great deal of modern ballistics work requires training in electronics for which an undergraduate
degree in electrical engineering plus at least the equivalent of a master’s degree in electronics is
required.
It may be seen from the above that the requirements are essentially no different from those which
an individual would be expected to have for any scientific research job.
It should be pointed out that the field of ballistics is a very limited one insofar as possible openings
are concerned. The only ballistics research laboratories in the United States focused on sporting
ammunition are those maintained by the very few large ammunition and propellant companies.
There is at least one Government ballistics research facility - the Ballistics Research Laboratory in
Aberdeen, Maryland.
Q:
What publications does SAAMI offer?
A:
SAAMI makes available several educational and informational pamphlets and videos. Visit the
SAAMI website at www.SAAMI.org.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) also has numerous firearm safety resources,
shooting safety, hunting and conservation. Visit the NSSF website at www.nssf.org.
Page 11 of 22
Q:
Can Damascus or “twist steel” barrels be used safely?
A:
NO!
It is dangerous to fire a gun having Damascus or twist steel barrels with any load, either black
or smokeless powder.
This conclusion has been reached after careful consideration of accidents in which Damascus
barrels were found to have failed. The failure is due specifically to corrosion between the
laminates which has occurred simply as a consequence of the passage of time. This corrosion,
usually at the weld joints, is often times invisible on the surface and the bright and smooth
appearance of a Damascus barrel surface gives no assurance that dangerous weakening of the
interior of the barrel wall has not occurred.
The following literature references dealing with this subject are offered for the benefit of those
who wish to study them:
“Gun Safety: Damascus-Barreled Shotguns”, NRA Website, 11/14/2016
https://www.nrafamily.org/articles/2016/11/14/gun-safety-damascus-barreledshotguns/
“The Construction and Structure of Damascus Barrels”, The Technical Section of Game
and Gun, January, 1937, pp. 56-59.
A History of Firearms, Major H. B. C Pollard, Houghton Mifflin Company, 1926, pp. 224225.
The Gun and Its Development, 9th Edition, W. W. Greener, Cassell and Co., Ltd, 1910, pp
229-242, U.S. publishers; Bonanza Books, New York, 1967.
The Modern Shotgun, Vol. 1, Major Gerald Burrard, Herbert Jenkins Ltd., 1931-1932, Vol.
I, p. 24; Vol. III, p. 344.
“Gun Bursts and How to Avoid them”, Bob Nichols, Field and Stream, May, 1938, p. 98.
“Dangerous Damascus”, Warren Page, Field and Stream, February, 1948.
Gough Thomas’s Gun Book, G. T. Garwood, Am. Ed. Winchester Press, N.Y. 1970, pp. 58,
60, 96 et. seq.
“Damascus Safety”, The American Rifleman, National Rifle Assoc., Washington, D.C.
August 1965, p. 85.
Page 12 of 22
“Damascus Barrels – Beautify but Deadly”, Lee Kennett, Gun Digest 26th Edition, 1972,
Follett Publishing Co., Chicago, pp. 184-188.
“There’s Danger in Damascus”, J. W. Houlden, Gun Digest 14th Edition, 1960 reprinted
from C.I.L. Oval, June 1950 (Canadian Industries, Ltd.).
The Shotgun Book, Jack O’Conner, Alfred A. Knopf Co., New York, 5th printing 1973.
References throughout.
“Damascus Barrels: Too Risky?”, The American Rifleman, National Rifle Association,
Washington, D.C., April 1976, p. 24.
“Making Damascus Barrels”, Part I, The American Rifleman, National Rifle Association,
Washington, D.C., April 1976 (et. seq.) p. 25.
Q:
Does SAAMI have any recommendations on re-chambering firearms?
A:
NOTE: “Re-chambering” in this context, means the cutting of a new chamber in a previouslychambered barrel to accommodate a different cartridge of the same bore diameter. This is
different from “rebarreling” which entails replacing the barrel of a firearm with one of a different
chamber.
SAAMI has not published voluntary recommended practices or procedures for re-chambering of
firearms. It is possible the re-chambering of a firearm may not have been done properly or may
not have been properly marked on the firearm. If the caliber or gauge/length marking is missing
or altered in any way, you should not use the firearm. You should instead have the firearm
examined by a qualified person to determine what caliber or gauge ammunition can safely be
used in that firearm.
Q:
Can non-lead (steel or other) shot be safely reloaded?
A:
WARNING! Failure to precisely follow the reloading recommendations and use exactly the same
materials specified by recognized authorities who have access to ammunition pressure measuring
equipment can result in property damage, personal injury and death. Do not make any
substitutions of powders, “fillers”, or components.
Components are available in the marketplace today, suitable for reloading shotgun shells containing
non-lead shot. As with all reloading activities, SAAMI recommends using high-quality components
and that you carefully and strictly following the handloading instructions of the component
manufacturers. The reasons are as follows:
Page 13 of 22
1. Slight variations in components using the same powder charge weight may result in sharp changes
in pressure that, in turn, can create hazardous conditions.
2. Changes in loading techniques which occur from one individual reloader to another may result in
significant variations in pressure and performance.
The following list of specifics of handloading non-lead-shot shotshells is based on some of the
characteristics of non-lead shot that have so far been identified.
Members of the shooting public, particularly handloaders, should be aware of the fundamental
cautions applicable to non-lead shot shotshells.
SPECIFICS
1. Non-lead shot should never be substituted for lead shot in factory-loaded shells of any gauge.
2. Steel shot for shotshells is a specially-manufactured product considerably softer than air rifle shot,
peening shot, ball bearings and other commonly available steel ball products. No attempt should
be made to use other types of steel pellets (such as air rifle shot, peening shot, ball bearing, etc.).
3. Components designed for loading in non-lead shot shotshells should not be used in lead-shot
loads unless specifically recommended for such dual use by the manufacturer.
4. No components (shells, powders, primers, wads, pouches, etc.) other than those specifically
recommended by the manufacturer as suitable for non-lead shot shotshells should be used in
handloading such shells.
5. Special shot pouches, collars, or other protective means of insulating non-lead shot from the
barrel wall during firing are essential to prevent possible barrel damage. Conventional pouches
as recommended for use in lead shot shotshells are not adequate in non-lead shot loads.
6. Handloading recommendations for lead shot shotshells must not be used for non-lead shot loads
and vice versa.
7. Steel plates or other hard surfaces should not be used for patterning non-lead shot shotshells
because of the possible hazard of pellet bounce or ricochet.
8. Dental damage may result from biting on any type of shot pellet. The same caution exercised
when eating game bagged with lead shot should be observed when non-lead shot is involved.
Q:
Can I add filler or buffer materials when hand-loading shotgun shells?
A:
NO! Never add filler or buffer material unless the specific reloading formula from a recognized
authority calls for filler or buffer material.
WARNING! Failure to precisely follow the reloading recommendations and use exactly the same
materials specified only by recognized authorities who have access to ammunition pressure
measuring equipment can cause property damage, personal injury or death. Do not make any
substitutions of powders, “fillers” or components.
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Q:
What personal protective equipment does SAAMI recommend?
A:
EYE PROTECTION
SAAMI strongly recommends that eye protection be worn while assembling, disassembling or
cleaning firearms, handloading ammunition, shooting, hunting or closely observing shooters
The use of safety glasses intended for use while shooting and compliant with the requirements
of ANSI Z87.1 is recommended.
HEARING PROTECTION
Repeated exposure to the high sound levels of discharging firearms can cause permanent hearing
damage which may not be discovered until it is an irreversible fact. Due to this hazard, shooters
and observers of those engaged in shooting sports activities should wear hearing protection.
SAAMI strongly recommends that quality hearing protection, appropriate for the conditions, be
worn while shooting or during the close observation of shooters. In general, the highest possible
Noise Reduction Rating (“NRR”) available is preferred, up to and including the potential for using
double hearing protection (earplugs and earmuffs). Hearing protection manufacturers may be
able to provide a recommendation on the minimum NRR appropriate for specific shooting
situations.
Q:
Where can I get my firearm repaired?
A:
No firearm repairs should be attempted by unqualified personnel. Incorrectly performed repairs
on firearms can create an unsafe firearm that can cause property damage, personal injury or
death. It may also void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Information on authorized repair facilities should be obtained from the firearm’s manufacturer.
If the manufacturer of the firearm is no longer in existence, consult a qualified gunsmith with
credentials from an accredited gunsmith program for advice or repairs.
Q:
What should I do if my firearm fails to fire when the trigger is pulled?
A:
In the event of a failure to fire (misfire), the following procedure should be followed:
1. Keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
2. Wait several seconds.
3. With muzzle still pointed in a safe direction, if possible, place safety in "ON" or “Safe”
position.
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4. With muzzle pointed in a safe direction and while protecting yourself and others from
exposure to the breech area of the firearm, remove the magazine (if applicable), open
action quickly and remove the misfired round from chamber.
5. Remove all ammunition from the firearm and check to be sure bore is clear and
unobstructed.
6. If you experience repeated failures to fire, consult the manufacturer, the manufacturer’s
authorized repair center, or a qualified gunsmith to determine the cause of misfires. Do
not use the firearm until it is repaired.
Q:
Is any information available on the home manufacture of propellants and/or primers?
A:
WARNING: It is extremely hazardous to experiment with, manufacture, or attempt formulation
of priming or propellant explosive compounds or mixtures because it could result in property
damage, serious personal injury or death In addition, there is a high likelihood that such activity
would be in violation of Federal, State and/or local laws.
For reasons of your own safety and health and of those around you, it is our policy to urge
everyone to NOT experiment with, or attempt manufacture of, priming and/or propellant
ingredients or compositions.
Q:
How can I get technical documentation from SAAMI?
A:
SAAMI is an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited standard developer(ASD).
SAAMI and ANSI make available to the public ANSI/SAAMI Voluntary Industry Performance
Standards developed under procedures affirmed by ANSI entitled Voluntary Industry Performance
Standards for Pressures and Velocities of Sporting Ammunition, and certain dimensional
characteristics, of four types of sporting ammunition. They were subject to the concurrent review
and canvass procedures of ANSI before recognition by the ANSI Board of Standards Review and
publication by SAAMI.
THESE STANDARDS SHOULD NOT BE CONFUSED WITH MANUFACTURING SPECIFICATIONS
WHICH ARE WITHIN THE SOLE PURVIEW OF INDIVIDUAL COMMERCIAL PRODUCERS.
Electronic copies of the ANSI/SAAMI Voluntary Performance Standards are available for
download at www.saami.org.
Page 16 of 22
Q:
What are the SAAMI-recognized full and abbreviated names of cartridges?
A:
In order to enable consumers to clearly identify ammunition and the firearms for which it is
intended, SAAMI maintains a list of accepted names and abbreviated names for each cartridge
standardized within SAAMI. Those lists are published in the ANSI/SAAMI Z299.1, .2, .3, and .4
standards and are available via the SAAMI website at www.saami.org.
The SAAMI Technical Office should be contacted for cartridge names and abbreviations not listed
in those documents. This includes newly-introduced and inactive cartridges.
Q:
How can I get exterior ballistics (downrange velocity, trajectory, etc) for a load?
A:
Due to the numerous different types of cartridge loads currently offered in the commercial
market, it is advised for individuals with questions related to the exterior ballistics of a specific
load to research the ammunition manufacturer’s website or contact the manufacturer’s customer
service department.
A list of SAAMI member companies with links to their websites can be found here:
http://www.saami.org/member_companies/index.cfm
Q:
How far will my shot or bullet travel?
A:
Due to the numerous different types of cartridge loads currently offered in the commercial
market, individuals with questions related to the exterior ballistics of a specific load are advised
to contact the ammunition manufacturer’s customer service department.
Q:
What is the recommended way to store ammunition and components?
A:
SAAMI provides information on ammunition and component storage on its website at
http://www.saami.org/PDF/SAAMI_AmmoStorage.pdf.
Q:
Does SAAMI have any recommendations for the care of firearms for personal protection,
security and/or law enforcement?
A:
The manufacturer’s documented practices described in the firearm’s owner’s manual should be
consulted for specific instructions on the proper care and maintenance of your firearm. Further,
the SAAMI pamphlet Recommendations for Ammunition Safe Storage and Handling
(www.saami.org) provides additional important information on the practices to maintain the
Page 17 of 22
quality and performance of ammunition that supplements information provided by the
manufacturer.
Q:
What are shotgun chokes and how do the different types relate to each other?
A:
1. Definition
An interior constriction at or near the muzzle end of a shotgun barrel bore for the purpose of
controlling shot dispersion.
2. Common Choke Nomenclature
a) Full Choke: Greatest constriction (tightest patterns)
b) Improved Modified: Constriction between Full and Modified
c) Modified: Moderate constriction
d) Improved Cylinder: Slight constriction
e) Skeet: Slight constriction intended to produce even patterns at shorter ranges.
f) Cylinder Bore: No constriction (largest spread/open pattern)
Note that other names are used for constrictions not included in this listing and are generally
intended for special purposes such as turkey hunting.
3. Characteristics
Shotgun chokes have been historically named as they relate to pattern density. There are no
standards for choke dimensions and each manufacturer will vary the configuration to meet their
patterning requirements.
4. Interchangeability
SAAMI has no standard related to the thread patterns/location of interchangeable choke tubes.
Users should consult the manufacturer of their shotgun for information on availability of choke
tubes for use with their specific shotgun.
5. Rifled Choke Tubes
Rifled choke tubes for use specifically with slugs are also available. SAAMI has no standard
related to these products and recommends the consumer contact the slug load or choke
manufacturer for specific recommendations on the use of these chokes with the slug load
intended to be used.
Q:
How does shotgun barrel length relate to patterns?
A:
Evidence presently available indicates that patterns are unaffected by changes in barrel length
within the limits of 20” (51 cm) to 36” (91 cm).
Page 18 of 22
Q:
How many pellets are there in an ounce of shot/buckshot?
A:
Remembering that production tolerances in diameter and variation in alloy composition will
cause differences in actual pellet counts, the nominal pellet counts per ounce by shot size and
material are provided in the ANSI/SAAMI Z299.2 Standard available on this website.
Q:
What are the various parts and features of a rimfire cartridge called?
A:
RIMFIRE
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Q:
A:
Q:
What are various parts and features of a centerfire rifle cartridge called?
CENTERFIRE RIFLE
What are various parts and features of a shotgun shell called?
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A:
9
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