Standard vs magnum primers in Snake shot

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mcgiiver

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I want to make up some .38 Special, snake shot loads using Speer shot capsules. I have an abundance of Magnum small pistol primers that I would like to use up, to conserve my supply of standard small pistol primers. I will be using Titegroup powder. I know I don't need magnum primers, but would any harm be done by using them. Essentially I just need the load to go bang, as long as the mag primers don't blow holes in the pattern.
 
There is no harm in using the magnum primers. I would start with a slightly reduced charge and work up like any other load till the shot gives a good pattern. Slightly reduced would be around 5%. I doubt you will notice any difference.

Ron
 
Na, you'll be fine with magnum primers. I don't think you'll be using those snake loads for busting clays or upland bird hunting, so have at it, the snakes aren't going to know the difference.

And pressures certainly won't be an issue with an appropriate charge intended for snake loads.

GS
 
You'll be fine. The Speer published shot loads are way down on the pressure scale anyways. Speer claims when you get higher velocity, they spread even faster. Even their magnum loads are not magnum at all.
 
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Just to add my voice to the others, you should have no problems with the magnum primers. Which birdshot are you going to use? I'm using #9 with good success. Here's a tip, fill the case completely so that the cap just snaps shut. Those make the best shells for me.
 
Magnum primers give a little more "oomph", meant to help with ignition when using larger charges of slower burning powders. This can result is slightly higher pressures when used with smaller charges of faster powders, but the difference is pretty negligible. As Ron said, just reduce to start, work up like you would (should) with any new load. Snake shot loads are going to be light and low friction projectiles anyway, though, so doubtful you'll have any pressure issues regardless.

FTR, I use only magnum primers in large pistol, and frequently use mag small pistol primers in 9x19, .40 S&W, .38 spl and others.
 
I agree the magnum primer will be fine. I use 12 shot and unique and have had good luck. Now that the capsules are available again I have used a mix of 4, 8, 12 to play. Results about the same, the capsule makes a big hole with shot spread out around it. Let us know how tg works for you.
 
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