Question about primers

[Greg Nolan]

In reloading the 280 Rem I discovered that I had used WW primers that I had had for a long time. They were stainless and the box said Large rifle for standard and magnum ammunition. I had bought some WW primers since I ran out and they say for standard ammunition. So, should I use those or CCI LR primers or CCI magnum primers to match the rest of the old loads. I don't have a chart that shows the old WW standard/magnum primers heat level and I'd like to match the ballistics. These are the loads I just bought the "same kind" seconds bullets from Richracer for.
Any ideas?

 

[DrMike]

The formula for the Winchester Western primers has not changed. The metal used for the cups has changed. However, brisance should be the same. Nevertheless, as is always true when using a component from a different lot, it is a wise move to work up to ensure that no major differences in composition and/or construction has taken place.

 

[RiverRider]

It sucks when a component you have been using with success is suddenly changed or discontinued. I know of a guy who would have paid dearly for a good supply of H450 after Hodgdon discontinued it. I was not pleased to learn that Alliant had changed up 2400 some years back. I think lots of Hornet shooters have been cranky since Winchester's 680 became extinct...

On the bright side, you might just find another primer that works even better for you. I've had good luck with Federal LR primers when loading the .280. Maybe if I wasn't so danged lazy I might experiment and find a primer that works even better, but...if grasshoppers carried .44s the birds wouldn't mess with 'em.