Aluminum

Budget

Aluminum casings, primarily manufactured by CCI/Blazer, offer a unique middle ground between budget steel and premium brass ammunition. Made from aluminum alloy (typically 3003-H14), these cases are approximately 65% lighter than brass equivalents, reducing overall ammunition weight—a consideration for those carrying large quantities. The natural oxide layer on aluminum provides good corrosion resistance without additional coatings. However, aluminum's poor elasticity means cases cannot be reloaded: they don't spring back after firing the way brass does, and attempting to resize them risks case failure. CCI Blazer aluminum has earned a solid reputation for reliability in semi-automatic pistols, making it a popular choice for high-volume range sessions where brass recovery isn't planned. The main limitation is availability—aluminum cases are primarily found in pistol calibers from CCI.

Specifications

Material Composition: Aluminum alloy (3003-H14)
Density: 2.73 g/cm³
Weight vs Brass: 65% lighter than brass
Reloadability: Not possible
Corrosion Resistance: Good (natural oxide layer)
Cost Factor: $$ (15-25% less than brass)
Elasticity: Poor (doesn't spring back)
Magnetic: No

Comparison

Material	Reloadable	Corrosion	Weight	Cost
Aluminum	No	Good	Lightest	$$
Brass	Yes (5-10x)	Very Good	Baseline	$$$
Steel	No	Poor	Heaviest	$
Nickel Brass	Limited	Excellent	Same as brass	$$$$

FAQ

Can aluminum casings be reloaded?

No. Aluminum lacks the elasticity of brass—it doesn't spring back after being fired and resized. Attempting to reload aluminum cases risks case head separation or other failures. Aluminum cases should be recycled, not reloaded.

Is aluminum ammo safe to use in all firearms?

Yes, aluminum-cased ammunition (primarily CCI Blazer) is safe for any firearm chambered in the appropriate caliber. The aluminum case performs identically to brass during firing. Some indoor ranges prohibit steel-core bullets but accept aluminum cases without issue.