pierced primers with moderate loads...

[supratt96]

I have a Savage Model 12 F-class in 6BR. I'm getting cratered and sometimes pierced primers with what should be moderate loads. I've tried a few different powders and results are the same. No other signs of pressure, such as flattened primer or hard bolt lift. I'm getting low to upper 2800 fps (depending on which powder I use) with a 30" barrel and 105 gr Berger Hybrids when I start to see problems.

Example loads: 28.5 gr RL15, CCI 400 primer, .018 off lands 2820 fps
29.5 gr VVN-150, CCI 400 primer, .018 off lands, 2875 fps

Accuracy is good, but these loads are well below published max. I should be able to get 105s to 2900+ with a 30" barrel.

Anyone have any ideas what may be causing this?

 

[Rem7targetactical]

I'm no reloading mastermind, but maybe its not the loads at all. Maybe theres a problem with the firing pin? Just thinking out loud....

 

[Wheres-Waldo]

Take a look at your firing pin protrusion vs. whats specified for that cartridge/bolt-face.

 

[Frank]

The CCI 400 is known for doing that. Go to either a CCI 450 or the Federal BR or Rem 7 1/2 or Wolf/Tula Mag.