308win, large rifle primers, ball powders

rp85

hello;

anyone us large rifle primers, not large rifle magnum, in the 308win with ball type powers. thanks for any input.

rp

PA Shootist

I have used W-W standard large rifle primers, as well as CCI 34 military-type primers, using WCC-846 surplus ball powder, for several years and several thousand rounds, without any problems, and with good accuracy. Most of this ammo was shot in my M1A. The ball powder I consider a necessity, as much of the reloading is done on a Dillon progressive press.

sandwarrior

rp85,

I mostly use standard primers with standard cases even when I load with ball powders. The reason for using magnum primers is to avert drastic changes in velocity during extreme cold. This happens to me but I deal with it. Temps up here in MN range from -20 up to just over 100. The velocity typically drops as much as 400-500 fps from the highs to the lows. I've never had a load go 'poof' because it wouldn't ignite. They do ignite but POA changes. The most drastic changes run from right below freezing to the -20 that I sometimes shoot in.

Wulfmann

You can get a good load from either but getting the very best load may be one or the other so working up loads (half the fun) in search of the best may require testing both.

If you have a good supply on either just use that.

I have used both with ball in 308 and I find as much difference or more from various brands than regular to magnum primers.

Wulfmann