Can I use magnum primers for 308?

[Bostekrisco]

I've searched and all the magnum primer questions seem to be "do I need to?"

I'm asking can I, as I'm getting ready to place an order, icluding other primers, with Widener's but they're out of large rifle primers but appear to have a boatload of Wolf Large rifle magnum primers.

I'll be using RL15, the mil-spec 168 BTHP and an as yet to be determined hunting bullet of similar weight, various once fired brass and hopefully some of USSR's LC match brass if I have the cash next time he has the brass.

The rifle is a 20" FN PBR.

Thanks,

Bob

 

[Galil5.56]

I never have using extruded single base, but always use mag primers with ball for reasons of better accuracy in my experience. I'm thinking also that one brands mag may be the same as another's std in terms of brisance, so experimentation would seem to be in order to find your rifles sweet spot. BTW, I have never seen any difference concerning match/BR primers vs std, but I'm sure others have.

 

[Eagles6]

I've had the same experience as Galil 5.56 with ball, better accuracy. I've used them with all powders without a problem and use them all the time now.

 

[Mal H]

I'm asking can I ... use magnum primers for .308.

Simple answer: yes.
Qualifier: as long as you do the normal reloading practice of working up to a good load watching for pressure signs along the way. Although, that qualifier is applicable to both standard and magnum primers.

 

[fitz47]

I use large magmun rifle primers for both ball and stick powders. start out on the low end of the reload data and work up Never use someones pet load without checking it with published data

 

[dirtman]

+ 1 for work up your own loads... I have always used mag primers for w748(ball) on a bolt and auto 308. It gets real cold up here (canada) and that mag primer gives me better group consistency in winter....
have fun.

 

[Slamfire]

What you find is that the 308 military primers were of magnum strength. The military wanted to make sure the cartridge went bang in cold weather.

CCI claims that the CCI#34 is a magnum primer, I have used it with IMR 4895, H4895, AA2520, IMR 4064, AA4064, and IMR 3031.

Shoots fine. You just have to develop your loads.

I have not used Wolf primers. Should be fine. Just cut your loads.

 

[rrflyer]

In regards to Wolf Primers.

I've used several thousand of there large pistol primers and never had a failure. I wouldn't hesitate to buy there rifle primers.