Reloading Primers

Small rifle primers are specifically designed for rifles that do not use spherical gun powder or cartridges that have a medium sized case capacity. Almost any rifle that does not require a strong flame to ignite the propellant can use a regular small rifle primer. Most rifles can use a standard small rifle primer with no problems; however, for optimum performance, it is recommended that you use a primer that is called for in your reloading supplies manual. The primers are not recommended for cartridges like the 223 Remington, since these cartridges require an aggressive and long burning flame to ignite the propellant.

There are two kinds of primers available – rifle primers and pistol primers. There are also standard primers and magnum primers. The differences between each primer are the length and veracity at which the flame burns when the primer is ignited. Different cartridges need varying kinds of priming compounds and methods in order to operate at maximum efficiency.

Without the right primer, the propellant could fail to ignite, causing the gun not to fire, which in some situations could prove to be deadly. Therefore, it is very important that one use the correct reloading supplies for the rifle. Rifle primers contain more priming compound than pistol primers because it takes more force to propel the bullet out of the barrel of a rifle. However, even the strongest rifle primers do not contain more than a single grain of priming compound.

Slam-fire is a big issue with rifle primers, and thus, it is important to choose a primer that is produced by a reputable brand that exercises all precautions to create the safest and most effective rifle primers. However, even the safest and well-tested reloading supplies can be dangerous when used incorrectly. All primers come with special cases that are designed to minimize the likelihood of inadvertent explosions and other mishaps. Storing different primers within the same case can cause you to become confused and use the wrong primer in a certain cartridge. Therefore, it is important that you store your primers separately in their included cases, which should be the case with all of your reloading supplies.

Small rifle primers are suitable for rifles that use medium-sized cartridge cases, or in weather above 20 degrees. Most rifles and cartridges can use a small rifle primer, but optimum performance can only be achieved when following the guidelines set forth by your reloading supplies manual. Purchasing primers from CCI, Federal, Remington and Winchester is highly recommended.