The Ammo Industry’s Biggest Risk? A Copper Shortage

For decades, copper has been the backbone of ammunition manufacturing. But what happens when this critical material becomes too expensive, too scarce, or too unreliable? Forward-thinking ammo manufacturers aren’t waiting to find out.

The Rising Cost of Copper: A Growing Concern

Over the past few years, copper prices have soared, reaching an all-time high of $5.20 per pound in May 2024. This sharp increase is largely driven by demand from electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, and global infrastructure growth. Today, the U.S. imports nearly 50% of its copper, making the supply chain increasingly vulnerable to geopolitical instability and trade disruptions. The Trump administration previously initiated a review of copper imports, and ongoing discussions about potential tariffs could further escalate costs and strain domestic supply, which is already limited to just two smelters in the country.

For the ammunition industry, this poses a particularly severe challenge. Copper makes up approximately 73% of the total weight of small-caliber ammunition, meaning that fluctuations in price and availability directly impact production costs. As a result, brass cases are becoming more expensive and harder to produce at scale.

A Future-Proof Solution: NAS³ Cases

Industry leaders recognize the need to adapt, and many have turned to Shell Shock Technologies’ NAS³ cases as a forward-thinking alternative to traditional brass. These innovative cases, made from a nickel-alloy stainless steel hybrid, offer several key advantages over brass:

• Price Stability – Unlike copper, the nickel-alloy stainless steel used in NAS³ cases has maintained a more stable price point, reducing cost volatility for manufacturers.
• Material Efficiency – Stainless steel’s superior strength allows for thinner case walls, which reduces material usage while maintaining durability.
• Enhanced Performance – The increased case volume from thinner walls enables a more controlled powder burn and higher exit velocities at the same pressure as brass cases. NAS³’s strength also allows for higher-pressure loads without case failure, offering greater flexibility in ammunition design.

Military Testing & The Next Evolution in Ammo

Shell Shock Technologies’ NAS³ cases are already undergoing military testing in the 7.62/.308 caliber, with early results supporting their effectiveness. Additionally, a .338 Lapua NAS³ case is set to begin testing Summer of 2025, with preliminary computer simulations indicating game-changing performance improvements.

The Future of Ammunition is Here

Copper prices show no signs of slowing down. With demand surging across multiple industries and geopolitical factors making supply chains increasingly fragile, ammunition manufacturers are realizing that relying solely on brass cases is no longer a viable long-term strategy.

The industry is evolving, and innovative solutions like NAS³ cases are leading the way. Those who adapt now will be better positioned for a future where material scarcity and cost instability no longer dictate production capabilities. The next generation of ammunition is already here—will you be ready?