Shell Shock Technologies (SST), a technology start-up based in Connecticut, has developed the NAS³, a two-piece case consisting of a solid nickel-plated aircraft aluminum head and a proprietary enhanced nickel alloy shell. The 9mm case is designed to be 50% lighter and cost significantly less than a conventional brass case.
The nickel-plated aircraft-grade aluminum head offers greater lubricity than brass and will not clog, wear out, or damage breach and ejector mechanisms, according to the company. Its design also prevents "ballooning" caused by pistols and automatic weapons with an unsupported reach. The nickel alloy stainless cylinder offers uniform wall thickness and a case capacity that is fractionally larger than a standard 9mm shell.