Magnum Small Rifle Primers

[pccraig]

Like a bonehead, I didn't look closely enough when the clerk put them in the bag and bought some CCI magnum small rifle primers.

I'm loading for a Savage .223 12FV, using H4895 powder and 55gr PSP bullets.

How do I modify my loads so I can use these damned things ?

 

[buttrap]

If I recall most loading data states to use mag primers in the .223-556 guns.

 

[Mal H]

I'm sorry, but I've got to say - "Again?"

Seems like lately there's been a bunch of folks buying magnum primers when they wanted regular.

Why not buy some regular primers and save the magnums for future use with powders that do require a magnum primer? For example, you might want to try W738 or H335 at sometime.

There's no good reason not to use them with H4895. They'll work fine, but be sure to start low as usual and work up looking for pressure signs. You shouldn't try for the max load recommended for regular primers.

Some say using a magnum primer when a regular is called for can cause unwanted early bullet jump which affects the pressure. I find that hard to believe since the same argument goes for powders that do require a magnum primer. In fact I would think that the problem would even be worse since those powders are a little harder to ignite and the increased volume caused by premature bullet jump makes it even worse.