This bunch was Once-Fired Brass. Anything/everything I reload gets a Thorough inspection after Cleaning. Been using Nickel plated brass for years, especially for 357Mag & 38Spl & have Not had an issue with "Flaking." The plating Will eventually wear off (after 4+ reloads). Yes, I expand enough to get the bullet started & then a Modest Taper Crimp. Same process when loading 38Spl & 357Mag.Is that new nickel plated brass (not reload)? I thought you really can't reload Ni plated because it can flake off if resized. I guess you must be expanding & crimping minimally as well.