Changing Primers - Am I going to be ok?

idahohunter8 · Aug 22, 2015

I have worked a great hunting load for my 300 WSM...
Norma Brass, 68gr. reloader 22, 180 Partition, federal 215 primers

My problem is I have ran out of Federal 215's and none of the local stores have any. I do however have a large supplies of CCI 250 primers...

If I keep everything the same except for using the CCI 250's, is it going to change things that much or will I be ok?

RiverRider · Aug 22, 2015

What I would do...load up three rounds each at 67.1, 67.4, 67.7, and 68.0 grains and take a trip to the range. That way I'd see if any pressure issues arise and/or a change affecting accuracy. I'd take the time to set up the chronograph, too. A little practice would be a good thing anyway.

Charlie-NY · Aug 22, 2015

I have been forced to change primers on more than one occasion and have not noticed a discernible difference in velocity or accuracy. Naturally, I didn't switch from standard to magnum or vice-a-versa.

DrMike · Aug 22, 2015

There is enough difference in brisance to merit the approach RR suggested. You may be fine. But...

hellrazor · Aug 22, 2015

CYA - Drop 1 to 1.5gr and work it up like RR suggested.

OU812 · Aug 22, 2015

I wouldn't take the chance my self, I would drop back like others have said and work back up. It's better to burn a few rounds to see how things might have changed than wish like hell you had done so.

idahohunter8 · Aug 23, 2015

Its been my understanding that Fed 215 primers were hotter than the CCI 250's...if that's the case would pressures really be higher?

hellrazor · Aug 23, 2015

Maybe... maybe not. Only way to know is testing it out.

truck driver · Aug 23, 2015

I think all the guys are tell you the correct way to go about this and if it were me I would load a few and work up to the load I used before with the other primer. One rule of thumb in reloading is if you change a component you work up a new load. You wouldn't change the bullet to a 180gr GK and not change the powder charge so why would you change the primer with out testing?

Dr. Vette · Aug 23, 2015

Depending how you value your time, it might be worth buying a few boxes online and just paying the HazMat on them. I have to drive an hour each way to the range (gas $) plus my time. Divide the HazMat fee among a few boxes of primers or pounds of powder and... I'd do it in a second. It's just not worth it - to me - to change an accurate load and mess around.

Just my thoughts.