By John Vlieger, Shell Shock Technologies Sponsored Shooter
As a competitive shooter, every detail of my gear matters, especially when it comes to ammunition. When I first encountered Shellshock Technologies’ NAS3 cases back in 2017, I was immediately intrigued by their promise of durability, consistency, and cost-effectiveness. Over the years, these cases have become an essential part of my ammunition loadout, particularly for high-level competitions. In this blog, I’ll dive into the reasons why I rely on NAS3 9mm cases for reloading, focusing on their performance, durability, and overall cost-effectiveness.
My journey toward NAS3 cases began in 2016, during a large pistol match where I experienced a catastrophic case failure. I had been using mixed brass and, due to a mistake in my reloading process, failed to inspect the cases properly. The result was a round stuck in my chamber that cost me the match. While I didn’t believe it was a squib (there was plenty of powder), the malfunction was a clear sign that I needed more reliable cases, especially for larger matches where the stakes are higher.
After this event, I made a commitment to only use new cases or, at the very least, pay extra attention to the quality of ammunition going into my competition guns. I needed to feel confident that my equipment wouldn’t let me down during critical moments. That’s when I first learned about Shellshock Technologies and their NAS3 cases.
At the SHOT Show in early 2017, I saw NAS3 cases for the first time. What stood out to me immediately was how much lighter they were compared to traditional brass cases. While the weight of a single round may not seem like a big deal, for travel purposes, every ounce counts. As a competitive shooter who often travels, reducing the weight of my ammunition meant I could pack more rounds without exceeding the 11–12-pound airline weight limit.
But it wasn’t just the weight that caught my attention—it was the strength of these cases. Shellshock’s NAS3 cases are made from a proprietary nickel stainless alloy that can withstand higher pressures better than brass. This was a critical factor for me since my competition ammo is essentially a plus P-plus load of 124-grain 9mm traveling at around 1,385 feet per second. In USPSA Open Division, meeting the major power factor is crucial, and NAS3 cases are built to handle the high-pressure loads required for such performance.
I’ve tested this strength myself—pushing NAS3 cases to their limits with my high-pressure reloads. The cases have consistently held up under pressure, far surpassing traditional brass cases. The design of the case web plays a significant role in this durability. NAS3 cases lack the taper seen in traditional brass cases, which means they have more case volume and a stronger structure. In high-pressure situations, the failure point is less likely to be at the base of the case, where a taper would normally cause stress. Instead, the case can handle more volume and pressure, ensuring a safer, more reliable shot.
For me, consistency is the cornerstone of performance. In competitive shooting, accuracy is everything, and that includes the performance of your ammunition. With NAS3 cases, I’ve consistently achieved lower standard deviations in velocity, which is essential for both the accuracy and reliable functioning of my firearm. During a 2022 major event, I had three consecutive shots that registered the same velocity—a rare feat in the world of competitive shooting and a testament to the consistency of NAS3 cases.
Not only do NAS3 cases help with velocity consistency, but their structural integrity also ensures that the rounds cycle smoothly. I’ve used these cases in my competition guns since 2017, and I’ve never had a failure at a major match, including the 2022 World Championship in Pattaya, Thailand. The consistent performance of NAS3 cases gives me the confidence I need when the pressure is on.
NAS3 cases are built to last. I’ve used them for thousands of rounds, and I can confidently say they outperform traditional brass in both durability and consistency. The lighter weight of NAS3 cases not only helps with travel but also ensures positive ejection from the firearm. During matches, I’ve noticed that the lighter cases clear the ejection port quickly and don’t hang around, getting out of the way to keep the gun running smoothly. Another benefit of NAS3 cases is the increased case volume. The unique design of the case web means there’s around 2-3% more volume, which is helpful when loading with powders like Accurate No. 7. Having a bit more space allows for a more consistent load, further enhancing the precision of my rounds.
Finally, the cost-effectiveness of NAS3 cases cannot be overstated. With the rising cost of brass, reloading with NAS3 cases is a more affordable alternative. Despite their superior performance and durability, NAS3 cases are cheaper than buying brand-new brass, making them an attractive option for shooters like me who put 20,000 to 30,000 rounds downrange each year. For a shooter who competes at the level I do—spending $5,000 to $7,000 annually on ammunition—these savings add up.
After years of using NAS3 cases, I can confidently say they’ve enhanced my performance, reduced the stress of reloading, and saved me money in the process. Whether it’s their ability to withstand high pressures, their consistent performance in velocity and cycling, or the cost savings, NAS3 cases are an invaluable tool in my competitive shooting arsenal. If you’re looking for a reloading solution that combines performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness, look no further than NAS3 cases. They’ve served me well for years, and I believe they can do the same for you.
