RCBS Hand priming tool - .223 Large or Small Primer rod

A

AllPredatorCalls

Active member
Dumb question of the day for the reloading experts.

When using the RCBS Hand Priming Tool. is it "OK" to use the large primer rod while installing primers on .223 brass using WSR small rifle primers.

primer.jpg


I've noticed when using the small primer rod I often get a ever so slight flatting of the primer or a slight mark on the primer. Today, out of curiosity I installed some SMR primers using the large rifle rod and they seem to install fine, no mark, and a seating depth that appears to be the same as the small rifle rod - a couple thousands seating depth.

Anyone else run across this?


AP

Edit add: Yes I'm using the a #10 holder on the prime tool
 
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you might check you primer pockets. If you have to force the primer to seat the rod will flatten out the primer. The only fear that i would have with the large rod is the primer may not seat all the way. I have always read that the primer should be slightly lower than the case head in order to protect against a slam fire.
 
No, it should't work. You need the small primer rod. There is a significant difference in the diameter of the seater pod on each of the two rods and misalignment will cause problems.

You should uniform your primer pockets with a proper uniforming tool to ensure good seating.
 
I use mine often. I would also think the large rod would hit because of a smaller hole in the 223 shell holder. I think it's smaller anyway.
 
I'm not trying to be a wise guy, but make sure you don't have the center rod inverted and have the flat side up. If you use any of the Primer Pocket uniformers when cleaning you prime pockets, you primers should slide in without too much difficultly and you really don't have to mash hard when you squeeze the primer into place. If you are flattening primers, you may not realize your own strength which is sometimes easy to do with that RCBS unit which I use each time I reload. Took me a few crushed primers to learn not to feel the need to squeeze so hard. Good luck!
 
Yep, the center rod is round end down. Been using one for a while. Not smashing or squeezing hard.. Must be the way I'm tilting my head or the moon phase. The Federal and CCI primers I have dont seem to do it..

Thanks again.
 


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