Remington small pistol primers are a popular choice among reloaders, known for their consistent performance and reliability. Understanding their characteristics, applications, and potential issues is crucial for safe and successful reloading. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about Remington small pistol primers.
Understanding Remington Small Pistol Primer Types
Remington, while no longer producing primers directly, left a significant mark on the reloading market. Their legacy lives on through the continued use of their small pistol primer designs by other manufacturers. Understanding the variations is key:
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**Remington #11: ** This is the standard small pistol primer, designed for use in most handgun cartridges. It's known for its consistent ignition and reliable performance across a wide range of powder types.
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Variations & Substitutions: Because Remington no longer manufactures primers, many reloaders rely on equivalent primers from other brands like CCI, Federal, and Winchester. It's important to consult your reloading manual for specific recommendations and substitutions. Simply using a "small pistol" primer from another brand doesn't automatically guarantee equivalence. Always reference your manual.
Choosing the Right Primer for Your Reloading Needs
Selecting the appropriate primer depends heavily on the cartridge being reloaded and the type of powder used. While Remington #11 (or its equivalents) generally suffice for most handgun applications, certain scenarios may necessitate specific considerations:
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Powder Type: Some powders are known to be more sensitive than others. Your reloading manual will provide specific recommendations on the best primer choice for each powder type. Ignoring these recommendations can lead to dangerous pressure spikes or inconsistent ignition.
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Cartridge Case Material: The material of the cartridge case (brass, nickel-plated brass, etc.) can slightly affect primer choice. Again, consult your reloading manual for specific guidance.
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Environmental Conditions: Extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) can impact primer performance. While generally reliable, you might find slight variations under extreme conditions. It's always advisable to test your loads thoroughly under diverse conditions if you anticipate significant temperature fluctuations.
Potential Issues and Troubleshooting
While Remington small pistol primers (and their equivalents) are generally reliable, problems can sometimes arise:
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Misfires: Misfires can stem from several factors: damaged primers, insufficient primer seating depth, or problems with the firearm's firing pin. Proper preparation and thorough inspection are key to minimizing misfires.
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Hard Primers: Some reloaders report occasional "hard" primers, requiring extra force to ignite. This is more commonly associated with storage conditions and age. Proper storage in a cool, dry environment is crucial for primer longevity.
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Primer Pockets: Ensure your primer pockets are clean and free of debris before seating primers. A dirty primer pocket can hinder proper primer seating and lead to misfires.
Safety First: Always Prioritize Safe Reloading Practices
Reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous. Always follow these safety precautions:
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Consult Your Reloading Manual: Your manual is your bible. Always adhere strictly to its recommendations.
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Use Proper Tools and Equipment: Invest in high-quality reloading equipment.
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Wear Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection: Eye and hearing protection are essential during the reloading process.
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Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure proper ventilation to avoid exposure to potentially harmful fumes.
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Never Mix Primers or Components: Always use the appropriate primers and components for your specific reload.
This guide offers a solid foundation for understanding Remington small pistol primers and their role in reloading. Remember, safety and meticulous attention to detail are paramount in this process. Always consult your reloading manual and seek guidance from experienced reloaders before attempting to reload ammunition.
