Standard vs Mag. primers

XXCross

Here's the situation: I'm getting ready to load a batch of 8X57 ammo. My powder of choice is H-380 and bullet weights are 150gr or 170gr. I find that I have far more LR magnum primers than standard LR. Should I expect problems using mag. primers in a mid-sized case using medium slow powder? (I always load to the low end of the charts)

ChetStafford

Just make sure you start low and work up to max loads CAREFULLY watching for pressure signs as you go magnum primers can cause pressure differences in loads that were developed with standard primers. If your manual lists standard primers Be sure to start at the starting load and work the ladder.[;)]

scrubberguy

XX:
If you look closely most reloading manuals suggest you use a magnum primer with ball type powders. I believe H-380 is a ball powder.

What I've done? Pick bullet and powder charge weight, start at the usual start load or 10% under a max load, and then load 10 rounds of each primer type. Shoot 3 round groups or 5 round groups, it's up to you, then continue to work with the load / primer combo that gives best group size.[8D]

Pinhead

In a case the size of the 8x57mm your should have no problems as long as you load with the starting load dropped back a grain or so of powder and work up very carefully as it sounds you were going to do anyway. I have never used 380 myself but it is a ball powder and it require a magnum primer anyway. Just take care and stay within the manuals recommendations and drop the powder level to at least the starting load. You should be fine.

Odawgp

I guy on the 204ruger forum did a test using same power and standard and mag primers he found that velocities didn't change that much from primer to primer and some of the standard primers where just as hot and gave similar velocities as magnum primers

44shotdoctor

Well everything so far sounds like good advice. What I usually do is reduce about 1 grain for the use of magnum primers vs standard primers. Does anybody have a reponse to this pactice? Is this sound??

Wulfmann

If you are using a 98 Mauser action you just about could not hurt it with any powder although you may hurt your shoulder.
I have used 380 with magnum primers (CCI-34 military) in 8MM Mauser and as was stated the load data actually calls for Magnum primers with this powder.
I would start at the mim load and work up or down as your desire.
Many of us that shoot military guns are just punching holes in paper so prefer less recoil so if by chance that is your intention just work down slowly in increments checking cases for any sign of over pressure.
Just because a 98 is overly strong does not mean we want to find out just were it will break at, IMO.

Wulfmann

XXCross

Well the trip to the range answers just about everything. Having loaded up ten shells each with magnum (CCI) and standard (Rem) primers lighting 49gr of H-380 behind a 170gr bullet, quite honestly I can't see that there is any discernible differance between the two. Maybe with chrongraphs etc but not with my eyes or sholder! My ol' TGF-1950 still shoots 3" at 100.

Wulfmann

It also depends on which Magnum primers.
CCI #34 are military and I notice a big difference in them but as you found I did not in Winchester magnum.

Wulfmann

XXCross

Although I've never used them, I didn't think there was any difference in the priming compound. (either the amount or type)
I do know the cups are of thicker construction in the #34.