magnum primers

[barthowes]

reading numerous threads and handloading articles, many people use Magnum primers primarily in their 30-06. I live in VT(cold)but use standard. I have noticed velocity spreads of 30fps w/Barnes168TTSX 56grRL17 but sub MOA accuracy.Yet to fire them in winter. should I switch,experiment or does everything sould perfectly in line

 

[DrMike]

I live in northern British Columbia. It can get reasonably cold up here. I use large rifle primers in each of my 280, 30-06, 356 and 358 cartridges. I've never had a misfire due to temperature, and the velocity variation is not a major problem. The only time I would think you might possibly need magnum primers would be with ball powders. Even then, because of the powder column and the case capacity, you should get good ignition with the standard rifle primers. While I do like to see standard deviations on velocities of less than one percent, the most accurate loads sometimes surprise me and have standard deviations that are somewhat larger than that. I would imagine that your standard deviation is not excessive with the load you worked up.

 

[JD338]

I use large rifle primers for all standard calibers and magnum primers for magnums. The only exception is my 280 AI, I switched to Magnum primers and my groups shrunk. This was at the recommendation of my gunsmith.

I would stay with the standard primers in your 30-06/308 cases. I have hunted in sub zero temps here in MI, down to -20F and never had a mis fire.
If you do change to magnum primers, remember to drop down the charge and work up.

JD338

 

[barthowes]

thanks for the input.. I'll stick with LR primers.

 

[JD338]

thanks for the input.. I'll stick with LR primers.

You will do just fine! :wink:

JD338

 

[Powerstroke]

Same here - I actaully use a lot of CCI Bench Rest primers in all my standard calibers, both large and small - have yet to have any issues.