P93 Problems?

[woolfam]

Here is a picture of a spent cartridge from my P93. (Hand loaded - CCI primer, 5.0 grains of Unique, 115 grain Ranier copper plated RN bullet) Pin strike on all cartidges were off-center - degree of "cratering" varied.

The firing pin is not striking the primer in the center, and the impression looks like a moon crater.

Should I be concerned?

 

[RON in PA]

What does a fired factory case and primer look like. Is it off center also. If so the off center part is just the way your gun is, don't worry about it.

As far as the primer, while primer cratering may be indicative of high pressure the fact that your primer isn't flattened reassures me. May also be a big firing pin hole. Is 5 grains of Unique a hot or normal load? How's your seating depth? Lots of factors and that's why reading primers for pressure can be like reading tea leaves.

 

[mete]

Many guns strick the primer off center, yours isn't off center very much, don't worry about it. There doesn't seem to be any signs of pressure ,I would assume that the firing pin hole is either a bit large or chamfered.Again don't worry about it.

 

[woolfam]

Thanks for your advice. I'll just monitor the situation for a while. I appreciate the time you took to reply.

 

[Johnny Guest]

Not a hot load a-tall . . .

Really, 5.0 of Unique is well under the Alliant website suggested load of 5.5 gr. Perhaps a touch MORE powder would create the added pressure to smooth out the primer against the breech.

However, if the accuracy is okay and the pistol functions properly, there's no real use in running full power loads. If you/re shooting plate matches or doing defensive training, you might want to go as near factory load levels as possible. Personal preference, of course.

A handy reference:
http://recipes.alliantpowder.com/rg.taf?_function=pistolrevolver&step=1

Best,
Johnny

 

[bpisler]

All the rounds i put thru a S/A XD-9 and a beretta 9000s looked just like your picture so i would not worry about it too much.