I just picked up a Franklin Arsenal Vibra-Prime about 3-4 weeks ago, and I debated back-and-forth between the Hornady and the FA version.
I LOVE IT!!!!
I got out my Exacto knife and small file set to remove the excess flash that I had been hearing about, but there was *nothing*! I am not sure if FA has improved their manufacturing process or their QC, but I literally could not find any flash to remove.
I have read lots of bad reviews on the Vibra-Prime, but honestly, I think it is all in the technique, which is probably the same with your Hornady model.
I have found that the CCI SPP load FLAWLESSLY. Not a single jam, mess-up or issue. The CCI LPP can sometimes get a jam when the primer turns at a bit of an angle as it is dropping, and gets hung up on the hole. A small shake or two usually is enough to clear the jam, and then I continue on. I might try your razor blade technique to add the small bevel to the large primer hole. Thanks for that tip. Hopefully it works as well for the FA version as it does for the Hornady.
I have also found that you really need to go slowly! Let the primers go into the chute in a single file rather than let them get all bunched up at the entrance. I am sure your Hornady is the same way.
Truly, it is all about the technique with these things.
I also have some of the S&B primers that I picked up from the recent Cabella'a sale, and have not tried them yet, and I have some Winchester primers to try also. So far, I have only loaded the CCI ones.
After using the Vibra-Prime for a few weeks now, I could NEVER go back to the hunt and peck method of loading primer tubes! I love my Vibra-Prime, and I can't believe it took me so long to pick one up. The bad reviews kept me away, but finally one day, I just said "screw it" and decided to take a chance.
Like you said, these things are the greatest things since sliced bread, and I am so glad I finally got one!
Good luck with your Hornady version, and congratulations on having a fantastic wife! I have one also, but I had to buy my own Vibra-Prime!!!