How to Recycle Brass Shells

Recycling brass shells, such as spent brass from ammunition, is a great way to ensure that valuable materials are reused. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to recycle brass shells responsibly:

1. Collect and Clean the Brass Shells

Before recycling, make sure the brass casings are free from dirt, debris, and live ammunition. Most recyclers require the shells to be clean and spent (empty). Here’s what you can do:

• Remove primers: Some recycling centers prefer that spent primers are removed, but many will accept brass with the primers still intact.
• Clean the brass: Ensure that shells are not contaminated with oil or other residues. You can do a quick rinse to remove dirt, but they don’t need to be polished.

2. Find a Local Scrap Metal Recycler

Brass is a valuable material, and many scrap metal recyclers accept it. Here’s how to find a recycling center:

• Local scrap yards: Call or visit local scrap yards to check if they accept brass casings. Some might pay you for the brass.
• Recycling facilities: Many cities have recycling centers that accept scrap metals like brass. You can search for one in your area.
• Gun ranges: Some shooting ranges or gun clubs have brass recycling programs. They often collect spent shells to be sent to recyclers.

3. Check for Ammunition-Specific Recycling Programs

If you’re not near a local recycler or prefer to use a specialized service, some companies and organizations specifically recycle ammunition brass. These services may have drop-off or mail-in options:

• Brass casings buyback programs: Some metal buyers or shooting ranges offer buyback programs, where you can exchange your brass casings for money or store credit.

4. Sell Your Brass Casings

In addition to recycling, you can sell your brass casings to individuals or businesses that reload ammunition. Reloaders often buy once-fired brass for reuse. You can list your casings on online platforms, such as:

• Gun forums
• Ammunition reloading groups
• Online marketplaces like eBay (make sure to follow local laws)

5. Contact a Professional for Live Ammunition Disposal

If any live rounds are mixed in with your spent brass, do not try to recycle or handle them yourself. Contact local law enforcement or a hazardous waste disposal center for safe disposal.

Important Reminders:

• Safety First: Always handle brass casings safely and ensure that no live rounds are mixed in with spent casings.
• Know Your Local Laws: Recycling regulations for ammunition brass may vary depending on local laws and restrictions.

By recycling brass casings, you’re contributing to resource conservation, as brass is a valuable material that can be reused in various industries.