6.5x55 swede blanks

[Hotload]

I've recently obtained some 6.5x55 swedish blanks that were factory reloaded in previously fired cases. I was thinking of removing the blank cup and reloading the cases with new powder and jacketed or gas checked cast bullets, because the primers are still good. On inspection I found a number of the cases show web erosion which I believe is caused by incorrect head spacing(not reloadable), but the thing I am most concerned about is corrosion cased by mercuric primers. I haven't noticed anything, but then I don't know what to look for, or if it can even be seen (I've got an otoscope, the thing the doctor uses to look in your ear).I have seen small areas of silver colored metallic deposits resembling solder in the bottom of a lot of the cases. Most of the cases,about 60%, have dates like 1944, 1943 etc. with a range of about 1937 to 1959, and I think they were sorted, loaded and packed in 1961. Does anyone out there have any experience with old swedish military blanks, and their usability as loaded rounds?

[Gunsrruss]

Blanks

Get rid of them...Midway often sells 6.5X55 brass for $20 for 50. They will last a lot of reloading. It's Winchester brass. Those blanks are just not worth the trouble. Try 44.5gr of 4350 with an OAL of 3.130 and have a nice day. You can shoot 1,000yds easy with that load. Make sure you use a 140gr bullet.

[Hotload]

Thanks for the info Gunsrruss. I don't think I'll give up on them just yet though..mainly because I have almost 1500 of them that I got free. I'd still like to know about these shells if anyone has any info.

[Gunsrruss]

Brass

Naturally that brass will not be re-loadable. With primers that old you will be happy when one of them works. As for corrosion, yes they will be corrosive to your barrel and anything else it touches. I recently had an 8MM Mauser re-barreled to 6.5X55 and using my loads it is a wonderful rifle. My next door neighbor and I take our re-barreled guns out for a spin to see who can hit the most clays at 2-300yards out to 500. We are both using scopes. They are fun to shoot and reloaded rounds are the way to go.