Federal’s new Peak Alloy cases have been generating a lot of buzz lately.
Unlike traditional brass cases, Peak Alloy uses a proprietary steel alloy that allows cartridges like the 7mm Backcountry to operate at significantly higher pressures exceeding 80,000 PSI.
Naturally, one of the first questions reloaders have asked is:
Can you reload them?
The answer is yes.
But they’re definitely different.
What We Found During Testing
Over the past several months, we’ve been testing and developing dies for Peak Alloy cases, and we’ve discovered a few things along the way.
First, these cases require considerably more force to size than traditional brass. Proper lubrication is critical.
Just how critical?
During testing, one of our technicians managed to break a Co-Ax Wood Stand while sizing cases.
That’s not a recommended test procedure, but it certainly proved a point.
We’ve also found that achieving proper neck tension requires a larger expander ball.
Rethinking the Seating Die
Sizing wasn’t the only challenge we encountered.
For the 7mm Backcountry, we’ve revised our seating die design by moving away from our standard bullet channel dimensions. By increasing the contact surface area of the seating stem, we’re able to better manage the higher seating pressures while still maintaining the support and alignment benefits of our spring-loaded chamber-style seating system.
It’s a small change, but one that helps ensure the die performs the way reloaders expect.
What’s Coming Next
With Federal’s recent announcement of Peak Alloy cases in 6.5 Creedmoor, we’re already preparing additional die offerings to support these cartridges.
Coming soon:
- 7mm Backcountry Ultra Die Sets
- 6.5 Creedmoor Peak Alloy Ultra Die Sets
Now Available:
- Backcountry Headspace Gages
As more reloaders begin working with Peak Alloy cases, we’re confident we’ll continue learning alongside our customers. Our goal is to discover—and solve—as many of the challenges as possible before these products ever reach your bench.
SAAMI Dimensioned Headspace Gages (Rimless)
A Few Final Thoughts
Peak Alloy technology is exciting, but it also requires attention to detail.
- Pay close attention to lubrication during sizing.
- Monitor neck tension throughout the life of your cases.
- Follow safe load development practices.
- Remember that these cases may require more effort to reload than traditional brass.
If you’re planning to jump into Peak Alloy reloading, you may want to start warming up those sizing-arm muscles now.
Just remember to do an age-appropriate amount of stretching.