Best 5 Brass Shells Recycling Companies In The US

Best brass shells recycling companies in the US

The recycling of brass shells, commonly known as spent ammunition casings, is a vital component of the broader scrap metal recycling industry in the United States. This specialized sector not only contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing waste but also provides economic benefits through the recovery and reuse of valuable metals.

The Scrap Metal Recycling Industry in the US

The U.S. scrap metal recycling industry is a significant contributor to the economy. As of 2024, the industry is valued at approximately $42.3 billion. This sector encompasses the collection, processing, and resale of both ferrous metals (like iron and steel) and nonferrous metals (such as aluminum, copper, and brass). The industry supports nearly 49,000 jobs across 591 businesses nationwide.

Globally, the scrap metal recycling market is projected to reach 1,164.33 million tons by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4%.

This growth is driven by increasing demand for metals from various industries, including automotive, construction, and packaging, as well as heightened environmental awareness and sustainability efforts.

Brass Shells Recycling Companies: A Specialized Segment

Within the scrap metal recycling industry, brass shells recycling holds particular importance. Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is highly valued for its durability and corrosion resistance, making it a preferred material for ammunition casings. Recycling these casings allows for the recovery of valuable metals, which can be reintroduced into the manufacturing process, thereby conserving natural resources and reducing the environmental impact associated with mining and refining new metals.

Brass Shells Recycling Companies

Several companies that recycle scrap brass shells in the United States. We will discuss the top 5 companies that recycle scrap brass shells and their performance over the years.

Radius Recycling, Inc. (NASDAQ: RDUS)

Radius Recycling, formerly Schnitzer Steel Industries, is a leading player in the North American metals recycling industry with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. The company operates 104 recycling facilities, processing millions of tons of ferrous and nonferrous metals annually from diverse sources like end-of-life vehicles, appliances, and industrial machinery.

Radius has made significant strides in sustainability, achieving a 27% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions and maintaining 100% net carbon-free electricity across its operations. Its investments in advanced metal recovery technologies and the expansion of its third-party recycling services (3PR™) have enhanced its recycling efficiency and diversified its revenue streams.

Recognized globally as the world’s most sustainable company in 2023, Radius Recycling aligns its operations with the circular economy, supporting industries transitioning to low-carbon technologies.

The company’s strategic priorities for the next 3–5 years include further reductions in emissions, expanding its advanced recovery technologies, and growing its portfolio of net-zero carbon products like GRN Steel™.

Despite challenges like market volatility and regulatory compliance, Radius’s strong operational efficiency, robust sustainability framework, and commitment to innovation position it favorably for future growth. Its leadership in the recycling industry and alignment with global decarbonization efforts make it a compelling investment for ESG-conscious stakeholders, offering long-term value amidst rising demand for sustainable metal solutions.

Commercial Metals Company (NYSE: CMC)

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Commercial Metals Company (CMC) is a producer of steel and metal products, including rebar and related materials for the construction industry. CMC operates electric arc furnace mini-mills and scrap recycling facilities, playing a crucial role in recycling scrap metal into new steel products.

With a strong presence across the United States and Europe, CMC operates a vertically integrated business model that spans steel production, downstream fabrication, and recycling.

The company has demonstrated consistent financial performance, with net sales exceeding $8.8 billion in 2023 and a solid Core EBITDA of over $1 billion, reflecting its robust operational efficiency and strategic execution.

While primarily focused on construction and infrastructure markets, CMC is also committed to sustainability through investments in modern recycling operations and environmentally friendly technologies.

CMC began as a scrap metal recycling company over a century ago. Recycling remains a core part of its operations, contributing significantly to its raw material supply for steel production. CMC is also planning to strengthen its Brass Shells Recycling facility.

Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE: WM)

While primarily known for waste collection and disposal services, Waste Management, Inc. (WM) is one of the best Brass Shells Recycling companies that operates recycling facilities across North America. The company processes various recyclable materials, including metals, contributing to the recycling industry through its comprehensive waste management and recycling services.

The company’s extensive recycling operations, supported by 39 automation and market expansion projects, have added 1.5 million tons of annual processing capacity. Additionally, WM’s investments in renewable natural gas (RNG) projects aim to produce 6 million MMBtu annually, reflecting its commitment to sustainability. These efforts, combined with strategic pricing and operational efficiencies, have driven strong revenue growth, with an increase of 7.9% year-over-year in Q3 2024 and a record operating EBITDA margin of 30.5%.

WM’s planned acquisition of Stericycle further expands its service portfolio into medical waste management, complementing its existing capabilities and enhancing its market position.

With $950 million targeted for sustainability growth investments in 2024, WM is focused on advancing its recycling and renewable energy segments. The company has demonstrated resilience against market challenges like commodity price volatility and regulatory compliance costs by diversifying its revenue streams and investing in technology.

WM’s leadership in recycling, supported by higher market prices for recyclable commodities, positions it as a key player in the circular economy. By prioritizing innovation, efficiency, and acquisitions, WM is well-positioned for long-term growth.

Nucor Corporation (NYSE: NUE)

Nucor Corporation is a leading steel producer and a pioneer in sustainable steelmaking, leveraging electric arc furnace (EAF) technology to recycle over 20 million tons of scrap metal annually. This commitment to recycling is integral to its operations, reducing reliance on raw materials while enhancing environmental sustainability.

Nucor’s advanced recycling capabilities, including direct reduced iron (DRI) and scrap processing, support its production of low-emission steel products. The company has been recognized globally for its sustainability leadership, focusing on innovative technologies such as carbon capture and low-emission ironmaking to further reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Strategically, Nucor is investing $6.5 billion through 2027 in capacity expansion, including new mills and value-added finishing lines, to meet rising demand in key sectors like construction, automotive, and renewable energy. Nucor’s diversified product portfolio, strong market position, and focus on high-margin, value-added products position it well for future growth.

Steel Dynamics, Inc. (NYSE: STLD)

Steel Dynamics, Inc. (SDI) is a leading steel producer and one of the largest metals recyclers in North America, integrating a circular manufacturing model into its operations. The company processes over 12 million tons of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap annually, supplying its electric arc furnace (EAF) steel mills with 82% recycled raw materials.

SDI’s operations focus on high-margin, value-added steel products, catering primarily to the construction, automotive, and energy sectors, with construction alone representing 48% of its shipments. In addition, SDI is expanding into aluminum recycling, with a new recycled aluminum flat-rolled products mill that will serve countercyclical markets such as beverage cans, with 80% recycled content.

Financially, SDI remains strong, achieving $18.8 billion in revenue in 2023, its second-best performance in history, and generating $3.5 billion in operating cash flow. Strategic priorities for the next 3–5 years include a $2 billion investment in capital projects, such as biocarbon production facilities and renewable energy integration, aiming for carbon neutrality in steel mills by 2050. SDI’s vertically integrated, low-cost operations and focus on sustainable growth position it as a robust player in the steel and recycling industries. Its innovative approach and expansion into aluminum recycling make it a compelling choice for ESG-conscious investors seeking long-term growth.

Other Companies That Recycle Scrap Brass Shell Casings

Enviri Corporation (NYSE: NVRI): One of the best companies that recycle scrap brass shell casings. Formerly known as Harsco Corporation, Enviri is an environmental solutions company that provides services to various industries, including metal recycling. The company offers resource recovery and recycling services, focusing on sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Sims Limited (ASX: SGM): Sims Limited, operating under the name Sims Metal Management, is a global leader in metal recycling with substantial operations in the United States. The company specializes in processing ferrous and non-ferrous metals and is committed to environmental sustainability through its recycling efforts. Sims Limited is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.
Interco: Established in 1996, Interco is one of the best companies that recycle scrap brass shell casings. The company processes over 10,000 tons of nonferrous scrap monthly and offers services such as delivery, pickup, full truckload, and less-than-truckload (LTL) options.
ScrapAmmo: This company collaborates with firing ranges, gun stores, ammunition manufacturers, and government entities to recycle brass shells, casings, and range lead. They purchase scrap ammunition from across the United States, facilitating the recycling process for various organizations. This is one of the best company to recycle scrap brass shells for shooting ranges.
Cinco Technologies: Offering nationwide services, Cinco Technologies specializes in bulk brass shell recycling, providing competitive rates and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Scrap Brass Shell Casings Recycling Companies

The companies that recycle scrap brass shell casings is an integral part of the U.S. scrap metal recycling industry, offering substantial environmental and economic benefits. By recovering valuable metals and reintroducing them into the manufacturing cycle, this sector supports resource conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction.

Companies specializing in brass shells recycling play a crucial role in this ecosystem, providing services that facilitate the safe and efficient processing of spent ammunition casings. Looking to invest in next-generation companies that are into the recycling industry, particularly Brass Shells Recycling companies, above are the best to look for.