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Newby question on primers

Dirtrider389

Pro smartass
Minuteman
Jun 14, 2019
77
78
Southwest Missouri
So I'm just starting reloading and so far my load development has been using cci 200 primers, my question is, would there be a difference if I started using cci br2 benchrest primers? Where I had been buying my supplies (not the only place around, just handy) doesnt have the 200s now but they do have the benchrest primers.
 
Potentially. I tested a couple different types with 223, and found that certain primer/powder combos would create slightly faster velocities (20 or so fps) or slightly lower ES/SD. I didnt see a discernible difference in group sizes.

Also, different brands have different cup dimensions and thicknesses, so you may see some changes in how they show pressure as they flatten, crater, etc. I mostly notice as i seat them in the cases.

If you're not running hot loads, I wouldn't worry about it too much.
 
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I'll take the counter view and say you will experience no difference between the CCI 200 and the BR-2. Same goes for the 400 and the BR4. I'll even extend that out to Federal and their standard and Gold Medal primers. We've had this discussion on here over the years and I believe the answer we got is there is no difference between the two other than the guy working the line at the time and possibly where the primers are on the line. The Benchrest or Gold Medal primers are made on the same line as their stadard primers, but the BR/FGMM are made by their more experienced worker. Basically, if Tom is working the line, they're regular primers. If Fred is working, they're the BR or FGMM because he's their senior primer maker. If I remember correctly, a few guys tested the standard vs benchrest and found no difference in velocity or SD/ES.
 
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Of course, different primer lots can cause issues and 200/BR2 can cause an issue in the same way.

I have gone from CCI BR2 to CCI 41 and had lower pressure loads significantly less accurate with 41 and higher pressure loads show pressure signs with 41 where BR2 did not and was also slightly more accurate.

41 or magnum primers are not just like a different lot number like 200/BR2 or FGMM vs regular Federal, they are hotter and alter pressure with certain powders.
 
Fed 205m there about 3 1000 more than the regular so why not. I don’t use CCI because I’ve seen a ton of non fires with them with several different shooters. I know a lot of people use them and trust them but I’ve never had a failure to fire with 205m. Properly gonna get burnt fot this but just my opinion.