The one in the pipe

[SnWnMe]

Is there a recommended number of times a semi auto round can be chambered before it should be discarded or shot before bullet set back becomes a problem?

[Sousuke]

Is there a recommended number of times a semi auto round can be chambered before it should be discarded or shot before bullet set back becomes a problem?

Sounds like an experiment. Break out the calipers.

[SarcoBlaster]

As soon as I notice even the slightest amount of setback, I'll set the round aside and shoot it on my next range trip.

[alpha_romeo_XV]

Unless hand loaded ammo purposefully set the OAL to have bullet engage the lands then whats going to cause any set back on chambering?
Most surplus ammo is crimped to such a degree it takes a good force to move the bullet.
Short OAL may affect accuracy a tad, but I've loaded 308s with 110g bullets that can't be seated to full OAL and still shot very accurate.

[heidad01]

If at all possible and barring odd circumstances, you should always load your carry/HD gun with fresh rounds. Anything that is chambered or cycled before goes into the bin for the range.

That said, good factory ammo can stand a couple of cyclings with no ill effects.

[Deedle]

I always drop the first round straight into the pipe and close the slide; probably I'm doing it wrong.

[Lonestargrizzly]

I always drop the first round straight into the pipe and close the slide; probably I'm doing it wrong.

Sounds like it

[IVC]

Cycling shouldn't affect OAL if the round is crimped properly, but it would be a good experiment to measure it after each chambering and let us know how it comes out.

I have had 9mm from reputable manufacturers disintegrate in both revolvers and magazines so that's a proof enough for me that crimping is not always done the same way or correctly.

[God Bless America]

I always drop the first round straight into the pipe and close the slide; probably I'm doing it wrong.

Can't on a CA-legal S&W Shield. The loaded chamber indicator is in the way. Must be fed from the mag.

Otherwise, I also drop one in the chamber.

[Big Lan]

I always drop the first round straight into the pipe and close the slide; probably I'm doing it wrong.

Not a good idea on guns where the extractor isn't sprung, like 1911s. At least, that's what the internet has told me.

[PatC415]

Use a finepoint sharpee around the bullet at the shell. When the line disappears after a number of chamberings, pull it out of rotation.

I use a kinetic (impact) bullet puller to pop them back out.

[Deedle]

Not a good idea on guns where the extractor isn't sprung, like 1911s. At least, that's what the internet has told me.

All my semis except my one 1911 are sprung, and I don't carry my 1911.

[71MUSTY]

Use a finepoint sharpee around the bullet at the shell. When the line disappears after a number of chamberings, pull it out of rotation.

I use a kinetic (impact) bullet puller to pop them back out.

Good idea, I've been using calipers and haven't seen substantial setback, but all it takes is one time.

[trackcage]

Not scientific, but I've rechambered the same bullet at least 5-7 times. I look for a combination if discoloration on the bullet from a dirty chamber and scratches on the brass case. Once either become fairly apparent, I'll shoot it and load the next one.

[shafferds]

Is 50 cents worth your hand?