What are the distinguishing characteristics of various primers....how does one choose?

[want2learn]

I used up all of my BR-4 small rifle primers, a friend was kind enough to give me some Federal Gold Medal small rifle primers. Next time i can get to the range i'll have the opportunity to try them out.

That said, several companies produce and sell small rifle primers.....are there well established characteristics of each that distinguishes one from the next?

thank you.

 

[918v]

FC205 will turn your semi auto AR into a full auto AR because they have soft and thin cups. But for bolt guns you just have to try different ones until you’re happy with the accuracy.

 

[Steel head]

Cci 400 are kinda soft and show pressure easily, not the best for AR’s or hot loads.
450’ s are pretty tough and what I mostly use.

Funny, I use a magnum primer in my little 223 and a regular primer in my magnum

 

[spife7980]

Historically I have used 400s exclusively in my 223 and ARs. And I still will in my AR until it gives me an issue but in my bolt 223 the remington firing pin hole has finally worn enough that the 400s were popping 2-3 every 50 rounds so I went to 450s in it. Ill eventually get around to having it bushed and Im sure Ill go back to 400s and it will be fine.

(Dont use the 400s in a larger case like 308 palma brass or 6 br brass but I have been pleased with my 205ms in those)