Swiss K31

[Jenrick]

Depriming the Berdan primers isn't that hard, and repriming them isn't that difficult either. I can tell you that out of everything being bought up in the last drought, Berdan primers weren't one of them. Worth the time and money (about $50-$100) to be able to reload them IMO.

Far as the rifle itself goes, it'll shot we'll with most rounds though with GP-11 it does excellent work. The only thing I'd really recommend is getting a good set of target sights for it. They are totally legal in Swiss matches (which are run and validated by the Swiss government), so you can even earn medals while shooting with them.

-Jenrick

 

[Swampman]

100% agree with Jenrick, pounding on and drilling holes in excellent brass isn't likely to make it any better.

The proper primers are available, and the prices are very reasonable. Just go to Powder Valley and look under "Tula".

My costs to begin reloading Berdan primers was zero, I used a worn out chainsaw file to grind out a depriming awl and all of my other equipment worked just fine.

I did install a simple screw device to the handle of my Lee Auto Prime so that I could control primer seating depth, but that's the sum total of mods I made.

 

[119er]

Well, I got it to the range on Sunday. I shot Prvi 174gr FMJ and it did pretty well. It was cold and I forgot my rear bag to really rest it. I got two "groups" because at first I was using a 6 o'clock hold. When I realized that POI = POA at 100 yds, I changed to center hold. I was in a hurry so I just blasted with it and left. The groups sort of stretch up and right. Could be me but possibly the POI changes as it heats up? The was a good bit of heat mirage all around the rear sight!

I can't get my phone to cooperate right now so now target picture. The two groups are somewhat elliptical about 4"x2" or so. I'll try to post the pic if and when my phone allows it.