I outgrew the necessity to "redline" cartridges many years ago. Once I realized there was no difference between 2700 and 2800 in the field and became more aware of the value of absolute reliability, I eased up on the hot-rodding. Now, there is a situation where going with the AI may well pay off. If the standard cartridge manages to produce 3000 fps but pressures are higher than one might wish (evidenced by short case life via expanded primer pockets), the AI version will accomplish the same velocity with slightly less pressure. Greater capacity allows for lesser pressure of a longer time since the charge will be slightly greater to compensate for the increased capacity. This is the same effect that allows a 30/06 to accomplish easily what a 308 strains to do. Again, minimal capacity increase means minimal difference but the difference is still there.
The thing everyone has to keep in mind is that the brass case is only a powder holder and a gasket. Different shapes and sizes can affect the amount of powder it may hold but there is little effect on the function as a gasket. One possible exception I have noticed is that rimmed cartridges seem to be very strong and handle high pressures extremely well.
The thing everyone has to keep in mind is that the brass case is only a powder holder and a gasket. Different shapes and sizes can affect the amount of powder it may hold but there is little effect on the function as a gasket. One possible exception I have noticed is that rimmed cartridges seem to be very strong and handle high pressures extremely well.
