Large Pistol Primers

Using Large Pistol Primers

The standard sizes of primers are large (.210″ diameter) and small (.175″ diameter).  Large pistol primers are commonly used in larger handguns and cartridges that do not utilize spherical propellant, such as ball powder.  Large pistol primers are used in guns that use cartridge cases with larger case capacities, since a stronger primer is needed to ignite the propellant.

Primers differ in the amount of heat they produce, how long the flame burns, and how intense the flame is. In large pistol primers, the flame ignites quickly and burns aggressively, but not as forcefully as their magnum counterparts, which are used in situations that may present difficult ignition. The hottest primers are magnum primers, however all primers are dangerous when stored and used improperly. When using any reloading supplies for the first time, it is important to refer to the guide or manual that came with your primer.

Large pistol primers are recommended for light to mid range loads in most cartridges, but many times, you may have to use a specific combination of primer and loads to achieve maximum performance with your gun. All reloading supplies come with manuals that will guide you as to which primer should be used with your cartridge, and if you are unsure, it is best to ask an expert.

Regular large pistol primers do not provide optimum performance in cartridge cases that have a large case capacity or in temperatures below 20 degrees. Any time it may be difficult to ignite the propellant, a magnum primer is recommended.

While less than a grain of priming compound is stored in each primer, using a large pistol primer improperly can result in heightened breech pressure.  Subsequently, it is important to note the recommendations and instructions that come with your reloading supplies.