Magnum Primers for 30-06

[falldowngoboom]

I'm looking to backorder a 5k batch of LR primers, so I can have a steady supply (at some point ). I've been using WLR with no problems but am tempted to switch to WLRM because of the lower standard dev shown in this test

http://www.castingstuff.com/primer_testing_reference.htm

I use IMR 4350 (approx 59g) but also have some Varget that I'd like to use. Are there any drawbacks to using magnum primers in 30-06? I've read that using hotter than necessary primers can worsen accuracy. Is this true?

 

[Marlin 45 carbine]

I've loaded lots of '06 ammo but never w/mag primers. useing a slow powder it may be of benefit though but work up loads checkiong for pressure signs of course.

 

[NuJudge]

I've shot a lot of IMR 4350 using WLR primers and 180gr bullets in the .30-'06, with excellent results always. I have used WLRM primers, but only with powders a lot slower than 4350. I use the WLRM with a full case of WC860 and 140gr bullets in the 6.5x55mm. If you want to try WLRM's in the .30-'06, go ahead, but work up from well below and watch for pressure signs, and try a substantial crimp.

Until recently, WLR was recommended for standard and magnum use. The WLR has the reputation of being as hot as magnum primers from other makers.

 

[USSR]

falldowngoboom,

I would advise against it. If you want a primer with a lower SD, then go with the KVB-7, which is the current Wolf LR primer. Guys who are looking for better accuracy tend to go to a milder primer, not a hotter one.

Don

 

[GooseGestapo]

I doubt you can tell the difference without a chronograph. Back in the late '70's when you had to have an FFL to order primers and powder we had to depend on the gunshops for our powder and primers, and supply was sketchy like it is now. I frequently used magnum primers in lieu of standard and never had a moments problems.....

but, just to be safe, I'd drop powder charges 1-2gr with an '06 and work back up to your current loads, however.

 

[falldowngoboom]

I guess if I start using Varget, there's even less reason to use a magnum primer. CCI 200's seem to have a low st. dev. Might give those a shot.

 

[Roadkill]

I've been working magnum rifle primers into a few bolt guns, am using a lower charge but can't see/feel/tell any difference at all. Calibers are 30-06, 7.62x54, .308, and 30-30.

 

[falldowngoboom]

Roadkill, do you crimp? What powder are you using for 30-06 and how much less do you use?

 

[Roadkill]

Roadkill, do you crimp? What powder are you using for 30-06 and how much less do you use?

Nope, no crimp. Don't bell either, Just use the deburring tool well on case mouth. Ensures a real tight fit. I use either 42g of IMR 4895 or Alliant 2230 with a standard large rifle primer, have been using 2g less of each with magnum primer. Really can't tell the difference. In .308 I dropped it down four grains because of gas system but haven't tried them yet.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Remember one thing, the results you are basing your decision on are only valid for that rifle and that reloader. Anything you change will change the results, everything. Even if the reloader in the test reloaded the ammo for you the results will differ in your rifle not to mention you are doing the reloading with a different press, dies, brass and bullets.

IMO SD is over rated and should be used only to gauge how consistent your reloading procedures are. More often than not SD numbers have nothing to do with how accurate ammo is or how tight the groups are. If the ammo you're building now is accurate stick with it especially if the only reason you are changing primers is to lower the SD numbers. (IMO of course)

 

[falldowngoboom]

Thanks for the input ArchAngel. Unfortunately, I don't really know if my current loads are the most accurate because I haven't switched around components enough to compare.

I decided to squash the magnum primer idea and order some CCI 200s. I was originally thinking magnums (winchester) would be more consistent and save me a grain or two on powder each round, but seems like it might complicates things more than it helps.

 

[moosehunt]

For what it's worth (probably damn little), I have used IMR 4350 with Mag primers in the '06, 165 and 180 gr bullets, with fine results. I generally use standard, but have used the Mags, in CCI and Fed for sure, and I think I used the Mags in Win also. I just dropped powder 3 grains (from my standard primer load) and worked up, basicall a new load development. I didn't find them better or worse. At the time, I thought I was addressing potential cold weather situations, i.e. below zero F.

 

[NCsmitty]

Usually, not too much is gained using mag primers in cartridges burning extruded or flake powders. It's fine if you choose to use them, as long as you back off a bit on the powder charge or select a proper starting load.
I've also seen tests that indicate magnum primers will sometimes give a wider spread on SD using standard extruded powders. That may or may not affect accuracy.
as a rule, magnum primers are best used with ball or spherical powders due to their being harder to ignite. As moosehunt mentioned, I've heard the same rumors about better cold weather ignition, but I don't have any proof of that myself.


NCsmitty