Need a new priming tool

NorthernPF

NorthernPF

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Ramore, Ontario
Hey Guys!!
I was reloading the other day and my Lee Hand Priming tool handle eventually broke. I'll be buying a new priming tool soon and would like to know what you guys recommend. Hand or bench mounted doesn't matter. What would you recommend for me?

Thanks
 
maybe read the thread about it on the first page?


Are you still using a hand priming tool? WHYYYY??????!!!
Started by Kevin M., 05-31-2015
 
Northern I still use a hand priming tool. The Lee was OK in its day but there are much better ones. Before you spend any money check out the new Lyman tool. It uses the std shellholder so you don't have to buy other shellholders to fit the priming tool. The shellholder pops on and off the tool so there is no partial dis-assembly to change shellholders. Also the shellholder sits right up on top so there is no problem getting fat cases like the short mags into the tool. Hope that helps.
 
I still prefer a hand primer for my accuracy loads. RCBS is what I'm using now. I generally fully prep my competition cases in batches of 100 or more so when it's time to reload, it's just powder and a bullet. Sitting in front of the TV, the RCBS primer is actually pretty quick.
 
I have a bunch of the hand units but what I started using is a RCBS bench tool. I get better feel than the hand units and it's just as fast. This one is probably > 30 years old, from a friend. The Forster unit is no doubt good as well as their presses.
 
I have the RCBS hand primer as well, for the $40-50 it cost, she's pretty spot on for feedback and control of primer seating depth.

Setup is a pain somewhat
 
Thirty years ago I bought an RCBS automatic bench mounted priming tool. Since then I have tried numerous hand priming tools. Nothing works as good or as easy as the RCBS priming tool. Keep the pivot points clean and lubed for smooth operation. Feedback from handle lets you know when primers bottom out.
 
I've worn out one Lee hand tool, & broke one & a 1st generation RCBS one (pre-APS). Through this I've also had an RCBS bench-mounted tool that's still going. From experience with those I'd say if you're only in the market for one go for an RCBS bench-tool. I like having a hand-held tool for flexibility; a hand-tool is easier to carry to the couch when there's something interesting on TV, and easier to bring to camp than my bench.
Never tried Hornady, or some of the higher$ ones; yet. Maybe...just busted the RCBS & considering replacements?
 
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Call or e-m RCBS and tell them what parts are FUBAR.
They'll likely send you new ones by the end of the week.
They're pretty good that way.
 
I probably will contact RCBS even if only to keep it as a back-up. To be fair the whole thing had been getting sloppy enough over the past year that I'd been considering alternatives. (& also to be fair: the poor thing has been through a lot...)
Any input on Hornady, Sinclair, or other choices appreciated...?
 
Dillon 650? Thats my plan for most priming in the next year. Anything volume. I hate single stage reloading, even match 308 ill reload on the 650, but weight charges.

9,223,308

Prime your low volume with anything ....
 
Like the guy who taught me to reload I bought 2 Lee hand primers for the price of one RCBS unit
One set up for small, one for large

On occasion I prime on a Dillon 550

Clean primer pockets via water tumbling (or what ever method) might trump the brand name of the priming tool IMO
 
I have an RCBS hand primer and I probably wouldn't recommend that particular hand primer now that I have had mine for over 10 years. It is nice that it uses standard shell holders but I find the pivot bar with the funny dimpled bar to be a bit lame to use and I also found the primers to jam in the lg rifle plastic feed not to mention the number of times the lid popped off the green feed tray and dumped primers all over my bench. I have loaded a lot of rounds with it but only because I am too lazy to run out and buy a new hand primer. I am tempted to get a new one but I really should just tinker with the RCBS one to get it to work properly. I am all ears for a better way to skin the cat...
 
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