bikerdoc
Moderator In Memoriam
Good news! Just tighten up and drive on, bro.
A series of unfortunate events ( WARNING : GRAPHIC, VERY )
- Thread starter blarby
- Start date
- Status
Conservidave
Member
- Joined
- Apr 16, 2013
- Messages
- 367
I promise i will never repeat this mistake! I have always been a little weary of primers but now they have my full respect! Thanks for sharing
Gravedigger56
Member
WOW! 
It took me less than a day after I got my new press to yank off the tube feeder and put it into permanent storage.
It took me less than a day after I got my new press to yank off the tube feeder and put it into permanent storage.
mikemyers
Member
'Gravedigger56', how did you do the reloading, without using the tube feeder? Did you prime the cases before they went into the Dillon?
THR and others have had discussions about this in the past. One of the ones on THR can be found here:
http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=418872
Can any of you suggest the best work-around, to use the Dillon without using the primer tube?
One week from now I am going back to visit my relative who bought a 550B. I has been sitting unused, full of powder, but untouched, since I was there last. As I read through this discussion, it's obvious to me that I could have easily done the exact same thing as was described up above, without realizing I was doing anything unsafe. I was uncomfortable about his new Dillon back in February, and after reading this, I'm much more so now.
THR and others have had discussions about this in the past. One of the ones on THR can be found here:
http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=418872
Can any of you suggest the best work-around, to use the Dillon without using the primer tube?
One week from now I am going back to visit my relative who bought a 550B. I has been sitting unused, full of powder, but untouched, since I was there last. As I read through this discussion, it's obvious to me that I could have easily done the exact same thing as was described up above, without realizing I was doing anything unsafe. I was uncomfortable about his new Dillon back in February, and after reading this, I'm much more so now.
allen2259
Member
I have been using a 550B since late 80s, never had a serious problem with primer feed. I have talked with folks who have and it seems like the primer pocket needs to be adjusted so it doesn't hit that plastic tip. The tip will bend and then there is primer feed problems.
I hope u heal quick, ive been down from HD accident ( lots of time to reload)
I hope u heal quick, ive been down from HD accident ( lots of time to reload)
leadcounsel
member
Glad the damage was minimal. Reminds me why I don't reload.
blarby
Member
As a final followup :
Had the last consultation with the surgeon today.
Everything looks good as can be expected, and I have full function- albeit a little numbness on the impact side. He expects a complete recovery, albeit with some sensational scarring.
I was able to shoot 3 cylinders of 357 on tuesday before things started to get all sloppy, so at least it'll be useable while I re-learn my grip memory. Sigh.
The redding turret is inbound, and things are starting to get basically back to normal, although shaking hands is still quite a bit awkward !
Play safe, kids !
Had the last consultation with the surgeon today.
Everything looks good as can be expected, and I have full function- albeit a little numbness on the impact side. He expects a complete recovery, albeit with some sensational scarring.
I was able to shoot 3 cylinders of 357 on tuesday before things started to get all sloppy, so at least it'll be useable while I re-learn my grip memory. Sigh.
The redding turret is inbound, and things are starting to get basically back to normal, although shaking hands is still quite a bit awkward !
Play safe, kids !
Attachments
happy1
Member
That is the reason I only reload using single stage altho I a turret press I only do one process at a time Full size de prime tumble re prime drop powder charge seat bullet and crimp Thank GOD you've still got your hands and eyes.
Paul
Paul
Glad to hear you're on the mend after your unfortunate incident.
I have one question though. You stated that when you upgraded your 450 to a 550, you chose not to upgrade from the manual to the auto primer system. Why, and would the auto system in any way prevented this from happening?
I have one question though. You stated that when you upgraded your 450 to a 550, you chose not to upgrade from the manual to the auto primer system. Why, and would the auto system in any way prevented this from happening?
blarby. I am glad it was not worst. There are not many priming systems I do not have. I will not reloade on a progressive type press without a lock out die or powder die, the lock out die takes getting used to because works, I was not expecting the press to lock up. When priming the amount of effort changes, when the press locks up I have to make sure the priming system is not the cause.
I was loading 150 rounds, I decided to dig out a Lee auto prime with the round flip tray. I understand Lee did not want more than 10 primers in the tray at a time and suggested reloaders use the hand primer with the red plastic insert for installing primers.
Federal Primers: My first choice, I was asked to use Winchester LR, for me that changes nothing but I was reminded why the Lee hand primer can get a reloader into trouble. The Lee auto hand primer can stack primers, for the lack of a better term it is possible to 'double clutch' the lever. With a primer in the primer pocket but not seated and another primer below the tray is exposed along with primers in the tray. I had forgotten what the small hole was for in the lid, It all came back to me.
Not all the cases would fit the Lee primer shell holder so I moved to the Rock Chucker to prime 10 cases. The first primer flipped on its side, the next one turned completely upside down, I changed the shell holder to a period correct shell holder and the primer arm. It worked but seating primers was not sensitive enough every time for feel. I did not use the tube for 10 cases.
F. Guffey
I was loading 150 rounds, I decided to dig out a Lee auto prime with the round flip tray. I understand Lee did not want more than 10 primers in the tray at a time and suggested reloaders use the hand primer with the red plastic insert for installing primers.
Federal Primers: My first choice, I was asked to use Winchester LR, for me that changes nothing but I was reminded why the Lee hand primer can get a reloader into trouble. The Lee auto hand primer can stack primers, for the lack of a better term it is possible to 'double clutch' the lever. With a primer in the primer pocket but not seated and another primer below the tray is exposed along with primers in the tray. I had forgotten what the small hole was for in the lid, It all came back to me.
Not all the cases would fit the Lee primer shell holder so I moved to the Rock Chucker to prime 10 cases. The first primer flipped on its side, the next one turned completely upside down, I changed the shell holder to a period correct shell holder and the primer arm. It worked but seating primers was not sensitive enough every time for feel. I did not use the tube for 10 cases.
F. Guffey
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blarby
Member
The only way I think it would have prevented it is with a factory-straight tube.
The reason I did not want to upgrade it, was that I was told by dillon ( correctly, incorrectly/uncertain) that the only part currently available was the 550 replacement- which had the auto-prime parts installed as part of the manufacturing process. That was the other half of the $95 decision.
Not only did I not want them, they actually are in the way of my sight line to the loading "deck".
Which was pretty much what I used the dillon for anyway- a blue turret. Could just never get over the progressive "hump" of trusting that everything went as expected. Made the "downgrade" to a real turret that much easier after the fact.
scythefwd
Member
I just picked up a 550, and have used a sdb for a little while.
When you say removed the cassette, what do you mean? I've been using pickup tubes, and leaving the magazine in the.. I just flip the pickup tube over, pull the pin, and let all the primers drop into the magazine...
I've been using the auto system... so that could be the difference and explain my confusion too...
When you say removed the cassette, what do you mean? I've been using pickup tubes, and leaving the magazine in the.. I just flip the pickup tube over, pull the pin, and let all the primers drop into the magazine...
I've been using the auto system... so that could be the difference and explain my confusion too...
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scythefwd
Member
Mike, on the 550, you dont have to prime on press. You can get a hand primer and seat all your primers before you run them through the press. If you're doing that.. might as well pull the whole priming system, its just extra effort with NO benefit if its not being used (minimally, doubt you'd feel the difference).
Pulling the priming arm would also prevent you from blowing up an already seated primer by hitting it with the seating stem if you pushed forward (I'd say unlikely, but worst case scenario from a maladjust seating stem)
Pulling the priming arm would also prevent you from blowing up an already seated primer by hitting it with the seating stem if you pushed forward (I'd say unlikely, but worst case scenario from a maladjust seating stem)
Same here. Just need to be sure to set correct height and have had no problems at all.
If I "eyeball" it, I get primer feed problems and know right away what I did wrong. Stop. Correct. Continue.
I also feel that of all the primer feed systems, the Dillon is very strong, isolated, protected.
refuse2bafool
Member
Like Vito Corlene I am a superstitious man. I would never joke about a serious injury or even a near miss to a fellow reloader. I would not tempt Karma like that.
Also, I don’t want to start a love Lee/hate Lee thread. There are enough of those.
But I do think this lends some credence to Lee's position that tube based primer systems are more dangerous than tray based systems. I have used both with no problems, but I have also ridden a motorcycle with no helmet. Not too sure either was smart.
Also, I don’t want to start a love Lee/hate Lee thread. There are enough of those.
But I do think this lends some credence to Lee's position that tube based primer systems are more dangerous than tray based systems. I have used both with no problems, but I have also ridden a motorcycle with no helmet. Not too sure either was smart.
javelinablanco
Member
Just getting back to the board from holiday travel, sorry to hear about your accident blarby and hope you have a speedy recovery. I have learned much from everyone here on THR and was sad to hear of this accident to one of our own, but accidents do happen. I am about 6-8 months into reloading and just getting my feet wet, but your words of wisdom and your tenacity to "get back on the horse" is inspiring. So long as you have your eyes, eggs, and digits you will be fine in time. Keep up good spirits my friend 
ridurall
Member
If you ever heard the story about the fat guy that got shot with a 50 BMG primer. Well I'm the guy. I had a little side line business going selling 50 BMG bottle openers and man I screwed up. It happened about 3 years ago and it was raining and has been raining for several days so I didn't go out to shoot the 50 BMG to empty the brass. So I decided to use my fancy bullet puller and pull the bullets on the rounds that I wanted to use to make bottle openers. The one thing I didn't do was take the empty shell and load it in my rifle to make the primer safe. I thought a little D-40 would kill the primer. Well after making the two horizontal cuts I started on the vertical cut. Now I've done this at least 50 times without problem but this time I screwed up big time. The primer went of, flew out of the primer pocket and hit me about 3 inches above my belly button. It didn't hurt hardly at all but sure rang my bell. I had safety glasses on so it saved my eye sight. After I figured that I was not hurt bad I got up and noticed that my bib overalls had a hole in them. I headed to the bedroom to double check and found that my shirt, underwear and bib overalls was drenched in blood. I was bleeding like a stuck pig. I grabbed a towel and applied pressure and hollered at my 10 year old son. When he saw the blood he started to freak out but I told him to cool it. I changed my clothes while he held pressure on the wound and we headed for the hospital. I called my 89 year old father on the way and he was waiting with his van to take Scotty and I the rest of the way. Once I got to the hospital the nurse checked me in and they called the sheriff and somehow let them know I had been shot with a 50 BMG rifle.
The deputy that showed up couldn't believe that I had driven myself or that I’d been shot with a 50 BMG. He has known me and my family for quite a while. Once they did the x-ray and CT scan they figured out that I had not mortally wounded myself. Thank goodness for fat. The primer went in above my belly button and traveled about 6 inches to my right and stopped about 3 inches under the skin. The doctor felt around and thought he had figured out how to get it out and made a cut over where the primer should be. After digging around for 20 or 30 minutes he kept having trouble with the primer moving out from between the forceps. He sewed me back up and told me to see the surgeon on Thursday. Man do I feel stupid. I know better than this and could have killed the primer with a drop of oil but I was in a hurry and it bit me. I guess it could have been worse, it could have lodged in my stomach or other important organ. I learned a valuable lesson that day and I'm close to 100 lbs lighter now. I still have that primer under the skin on my right side with a small scar near my belly button.
The deputy that showed up couldn't believe that I had driven myself or that I’d been shot with a 50 BMG. He has known me and my family for quite a while. Once they did the x-ray and CT scan they figured out that I had not mortally wounded myself. Thank goodness for fat. The primer went in above my belly button and traveled about 6 inches to my right and stopped about 3 inches under the skin. The doctor felt around and thought he had figured out how to get it out and made a cut over where the primer should be. After digging around for 20 or 30 minutes he kept having trouble with the primer moving out from between the forceps. He sewed me back up and told me to see the surgeon on Thursday. Man do I feel stupid. I know better than this and could have killed the primer with a drop of oil but I was in a hurry and it bit me. I guess it could have been worse, it could have lodged in my stomach or other important organ. I learned a valuable lesson that day and I'm close to 100 lbs lighter now. I still have that primer under the skin on my right side with a small scar near my belly button.
PsychoKnight
Member
- Joined
- Oct 21, 2006
- Messages
- 97
Blarby - thank you for your honesty and humility. Know that your psychological generosity is making the reloading community safer.
I'm pretty cautious already. I feel ten times smarter learning from your detailed experience. I wear a whole freakin' Craftsman faceshield when I reload the primer tube or clear a primer jam, then step back and switch to safety glasses once I'm back into crankin. I also wear fingerless bicycle gloves on both hands. I need finger dexterity but the gloves prevent blisters from the arm ball (yeah, no roller handle), and for some reason I like to wear gloves on both sides and feel slightly better protected.
I think I'll keep doing the faceshield thing and leather gloves. The habit actually started before I learned to reload. I worked at an ASB photoshop at the university. A place where students could come in on their own time and develop film, print their own enlargements from B&W. A dude who was a regular suddenly appeared wearing a huge patch over one eye. He was an older, second-career photojournalist major; lost an eye to a car battery explosion while jumping a dead car. He vowed to sue the battery manufacturer but I knew that was spite talking - its not going anywhere. I didn't need to ask if he wore eye protection. Sometimes I don't when I'm using someone else's cables and not at home, but I've learned early on to at least turn my head completely (Exorcist-style) before the last 2 connections. Can't do that when messing with primers - so beware.
Thanks again, Blarby - You are saving future eyes and fingers and hands. Possibly mine or my kid's.
I'm pretty cautious already. I feel ten times smarter learning from your detailed experience. I wear a whole freakin' Craftsman faceshield when I reload the primer tube or clear a primer jam, then step back and switch to safety glasses once I'm back into crankin. I also wear fingerless bicycle gloves on both hands. I need finger dexterity but the gloves prevent blisters from the arm ball (yeah, no roller handle), and for some reason I like to wear gloves on both sides and feel slightly better protected.
I think I'll keep doing the faceshield thing and leather gloves. The habit actually started before I learned to reload. I worked at an ASB photoshop at the university. A place where students could come in on their own time and develop film, print their own enlargements from B&W. A dude who was a regular suddenly appeared wearing a huge patch over one eye. He was an older, second-career photojournalist major; lost an eye to a car battery explosion while jumping a dead car. He vowed to sue the battery manufacturer but I knew that was spite talking - its not going anywhere. I didn't need to ask if he wore eye protection. Sometimes I don't when I'm using someone else's cables and not at home, but I've learned early on to at least turn my head completely (Exorcist-style) before the last 2 connections. Can't do that when messing with primers - so beware.
Thanks again, Blarby - You are saving future eyes and fingers and hands. Possibly mine or my kid's.
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THAT's the most important thing I've read in this whole string (and there've been a great many "aha!'s in the last 118 messages)
Though I'd never used it, I'd always heard/read that oil would render a primer safe -- and I generally regarded WD-40 as a light oil that would penetrate/soak through the primer compound better than most.
Now do I not only know better, but will never consider a primer safe until actually fired.
mikemyers
Member
I had no idea what that referred to, until I looked it up:
http://shop.coolmaterial.com/products/50-caliber-bullet-bottle-opener
Back to this thread, I'm back at my relative's house again, and the Dillon is sitting just as it was a month ago, with the same powder in it, never used. I can't help but think of this thread every time I look at it. Neither of us has any experience at it, other than for assembling it with the help of the instructions and videos, and we've done a whole three bullets last time I visited, one at a time.
I did bring my safety goggles with me, but from all the reading I do here, to me it looks like an accident waiting to happen. I know that's not true, but that's how I feel. Until I read ridurall's post, I was thinking that a single primer couldn't be THAT dangerous. Now I dunno.
For myself, I bought all the RCBS strip-priming equipment, and will soon be using it.
Not sure if this is the appropriate thread to ask this in, but do any of you have any advice on how to be sure that everything on a Dillon is correct, and safe? We've followed the directions, but I'm worried about something being wrong that might be from something we don't yet know to even ask about.
And stupid as this thought is going to sound, is the Dillon capable of priming a single round, if you just drop ONE primer into the tube? That should make me a little less worried, even if it's "needless worry".....
blarby
Member
Not stupid at all.
You can prime one at a time by just placing a single primer in the cup by hand.
mikemyers
Member
THANK YOU!!!!!!
Much better than my idea of only dropping two or three primers into the tube.
By posting this thread, you potentially prevented a lot of people from maybe getting hurt, in many different ways. If I get my relative to do one bullet at a time, priming as you suggested maybe I don't need to worry so much about him.
Much better than my idea of only dropping two or three primers into the tube.
By posting this thread, you potentially prevented a lot of people from maybe getting hurt, in many different ways. If I get my relative to do one bullet at a time, priming as you suggested maybe I don't need to worry so much about him.
gamestalker
member
Man oh man, I'm so glad to hear you weren't injured to seriously my friend.
Things happen though, we work with products that have the potential to go bang at the wrong time, just the nature of the hobby / business. But thank God for you, you incorporated the necessary steps to at least minimize the extent of possible injury if the unthinkable should occur.
Get well soon!
GS
Things happen though, we work with products that have the potential to go bang at the wrong time, just the nature of the hobby / business. But thank God for you, you incorporated the necessary steps to at least minimize the extent of possible injury if the unthinkable should occur.
Get well soon!
GS
jell-dog
Member.
blarby,
I thank God that your incident resulted in non-life threatening injuries!!
Also, thank you for the insightful thread describing what happened and why.
It takes a REAL teacher of reloading, someone more interested in spreading the word of safety than someone who may be embarrassed by their experience, someone like you that shares their misfortune in a teaching manner to explain how to make reloading a safer hobby.
Thank you for the great thread, I hope you recover quickly!!
JD
I thank God that your incident resulted in non-life threatening injuries!!
Also, thank you for the insightful thread describing what happened and why.
It takes a REAL teacher of reloading, someone more interested in spreading the word of safety than someone who may be embarrassed by their experience, someone like you that shares their misfortune in a teaching manner to explain how to make reloading a safer hobby.
Thank you for the great thread, I hope you recover quickly!!
JD
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