Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

[Goin'Hot]

I'm on my 4th loading for my .338 EDGE and had a primer fall out in my hand this weekend when I was reloading. I started checking the insertion pressure on some and found alot to only require a small amout of pressure to seat the primers. I can't insert them by hand but....

I'm using Rem 300 RUM brass and Federal Gold Match Magnum primers.

I've seen reference to a "primer pocket saver" that you hit with a hammer to swell the holes shut a smidge. Before I go that route, does anyone know if there is a "large for standard" LR primer that may be just enough bigger to get me 1 or 2 more loadings before going to the hammer deal?

Thanks

 

[USMCj]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

You can try CCI primers, I hear they are a bit thicker, but I think the Hart Case Saver is your best bet.

http://www.mwgco.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Sc...;Category_Code=

 

[ramiller]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

Did you try wolf primers.

 

[Goin'Hot]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

The feds are the only primers I've used so far.

That case saver was the one I was looking at. As long as the results are repeatable, it may be the ticket. I'd like to get 8 to 10 loads out of the cases.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

Wolf are bigger. I would throw the brass out, though. If it won't hold primers, it's probably not safe.

 

[Greg Langelius *]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

Primer pocket expansion is generally an indicator of case head expansion, due to pressures that may be excessive, and reloading cycle numbers that may be nearing their useful limit.

If it were reasonable to expect that this condition could be remedied by using wider primer diameters, one might reasonably expect that the primer manufacturers would have picked up on this potential market.

Since this is clearly not the case, another approach would be advisable.

The Hart tool is interesting, and I suggest that it can be worthwhile. However, it is difficult to find much evidence of its use, or of its effectiveness. I know, I've looked.

IMHO, the better solution would be to seek a milder load.

I suspect that, in the long run, it will be the better approach.

Greg

 

[GSluzenski]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

RW Hart lists the Hart Case Saver in their catalog for $30.99. URL is www.rwhart.com. As far as how well they work, call Bobby Hart and ask him. He's a long range shooter and a great gunsmith.
1-800-368-3656

 

[steve123]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Goin'Hot</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm on my 4th loading for my .338 EDGE and had a primer fall out in my hand this weekend when I was reloading. I started checking the insertion pressure on some and found alot to only require a small amout of pressure to seat the primers. I can't insert them by hand but....

I'm using Rem 300 RUM brass and Federal Gold Match Magnum primers.

I've seen reference to a "primer pocket saver" that you hit with a hammer to swell the holes shut a smidge. Before I go that route, does anyone know if there is a "large for standard" LR primer that may be just enough bigger to get me 1 or 2 more loadings before going to the hammer deal?

Thanks </div></div>

IMO.It wouldn't be a bad idea to check for case head separation by scraping the inside of the cases with a dentist pick or similar before you go to all the trouble of buying the Hart tool!

I've read about this problem before with the 300RUM.You might want to try Norma cases instead or back off the charge half a grain.

 

[Goin'Hot]

Re: Looking for larger diameter LR primers. 338 EDGE

Currently, I only have the one piece of brass that the primer fell out of. Everything else is loaded for the Sunday match.

I ran the "pick" (that comes with the RCBS run out tool) on the inside of the case and I can't feel any indication of a problem. I measured the length and based on some cases waiting to go in rotation, the maximum the case has grown (through 3 firings) is 0.008". I have not needed to trim this brass since initial prep.

After the match, I'll check the rest of the brass for headspace issues and length.