Magnum Primers Not Necessary

Q: A guy I hunt with says to use Magnum primers all the time, no matter what the powder and cartridge is being loaded. He claims to be using Magnum primers in all his loads and says ignition can’t be too positive. Is he right?
Martin Charlton

A: No! There are disadvantages to using Magnum primers all the time. Magnum primers when not needed, can cause erratic velocity and higher pressure. I always use standard primers unless I am

Magnum & Non Magnum comparison. Image - The High Road — Magnum & Non Magnum comparison. Image – The High Road

loading a cartridge such as a large capacity smallbore magnum with difficult-to-ignite slow-burning propellants or a smaller cartridge which takes 50-plus grains of a spherical powder.

Nick Harvey

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The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.