Quote Originally Posted by Rogeritall View Post
Thanks... But, yes I already knew about high pressure events due to under loading. These were just what I call plinking loads. Loads that were loaded by volume not by weight using a little Lee powder measuring scoop that comes with the .223 die set. If memory serves me (which is why I always write things down and go by the manuals, because memory often fails) it winds up being a fairly consistent 18.4 grains of Win 748, which is close to middle of the road for that particular powder pushing a 55 grain boat tail solid point.

But, getting back on point... I don't think it was a case rupture (although I'll check them over carefully as always) but it was a significant amount of Brass "chips" "shavings" that I personally didn't know could get up under the extractor claw like that and cause a malfunction. Bottom line is... I've just never had any other rifle I've owned do that before. Design weakness?... Fluke event?... Just my Axis?... Only time will tell I guess.
Put a .140" ball in it and see if it makes a difference.