small primers

[rmcelroy]

can i use small magnum primers in all my small pistols reloads or keep them separate?

[XDRoX]

Sure you could use them, but why, they're more expensive. And they will create more pressure/velocity, so if you're already at the top end you may run into problems.

[jimmykan]

What caliber are you loading? In 357 magnum, the magnum primers worked well for me when loading H110, W296, and Lil'Gun under jacketed bullets. But when I was loading W231, Titegroup, and Trail Boss under cast lead bullets, the magnum primers seemed to cause more lead deposit in the bore than standard pistol primers.

[XDRoX]

What caliber are you loading? In 357 magnum, the magnum primers worked well for me when loading H110, W296, and Lil'Gun under jacketed bullets. But when I was loading W231, Titegroup, and Trail Boss under cast lead bullets, the magnum primers seemed to cause more lead deposit in the bore than standard pistol primers.

Yep, I don't even use mag primers in my 357mag loads. I use 2400 and the standard primers work fine.

[rmcelroy]

thanks i was just trying to make everything a little easier

[Divernhunter]

I use mag primers in all my loads without problems. I also pay the same for mag primers as I have for reg primers. Handloader mag had an article and it showed better accuracy with mag primers with a number of different 357mag loads with max and lower range loads and different barrel lenghts.

Yes it is easier with only one type primer. Also if loading H-110 or Win269 powders you should be using mag primers according to the manufacture and reloading manuals. I use mag primers for lighter loads with unique and Hi-Skor700-X. I use those powders since I have alot of them for non-max loads.

[huckberry668]

Mag pistol primer should be used for larger capacity ball powders. Trying to keep things simple will get you more grief later on.
I tried mag primer in my 40sw load and accuracy went out the window. Mag primers with swayed HBWC 38spl loads wont work either. More power isn't always better if precision is what you're after. Read a manual and follow directions.

[sargenv]

If your choice of primers is Magnum only available, I say get what you can and use them. When Federal Small pistol primers became unobtanium, Small pistol Magnum primers were still available so that is what I purchased. They don't affect my loads all that much and they have the same reliability as the standard small pistol primers in my lightened revolver action. There are some competitors who use Small rifle primers for everything regardless of caliber.. 40 S&W, 38 super, 223 Rem, they all get small rifle primers. It's about only needing 1 kind as opposed to several kinds. If their gun can ignite them, more power to them. Magnum smallpistol aren't going to be any hotter than Small rifle primers.. so to that end, if you get a deal on them and they work for you, then yes, go right ahead. You need to determine if the load you are working with has any accuracy or pressure signs.. or not. I don't notice any of the detriments when going from Fed SP standard and magnums.. so for me it's a moot point.. in your gun, it might make a difference.

The blanket statement of "YES absolutely!" is just so much internet rubbish.. you need to do the research and find out for yourself.