Casehead Separation (photo and question)

[CanAm]

If you just use the one gun for 270, I would use neck sizing dies or back out the regular dies to only size the necks, just touch the shoulder, don't move it at all.

 

[Gatehouse]

If it was new brass, i woudl say check your headspace.

As it is clearly OLDER brass that has been fired and resized several times, I'd say the brass is worn out.

Adjusting your die to minimally resize it will extend case life, but who really thinks that you are not getting your moneys worth after loading a piece of brass 6X at with high pressure loads?

 

[John Y Cannuck]

Yup, that load is close to max for your rifle, you can't expect long case life. Chuck 'em, get some new brass, and pay attention to the sizing.

 

[SuperCub]

I think you answered your own question ....

I purchased the rifle new in 1990 and have shot several hundred rounds through it. The brass is about the same vintage as the rifle,

The brass is about the same vintage as the rifle, and has been reloaded several times.

I tend to suspect faulty reloading techniques combined with worn brass.