Best Primers for Reloading – Small vs. Large Rifle & Pistol Primers Compared
Searching for the best primers for reloading to maximize accuracy and reliability? Whether you’re loading 9mm, .223, or .308, choosing the right small pistol, large rifle, or magnum primers is critical. This expert guide covers:
Top primer brands (CCI, Federal, Winchester)
Small vs. large primers – which do you need?
Best primers for precision rifle vs. handgun reloading
Primer shortage updates & where to buy in 2024
Military vs. standard primers – what’s the difference?
Best Primers for Reloading – Ranked by Type
1. Best Small Pistol Primers
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Federal Gold Medal Match Small Pistol (most consistent ignition)
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CCI No. 500 Small Pistol (reliable, great for 9mm & .38 Special)
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Winchester Small Pistol (affordable, good for bulk reloading)
2. Best Large Rifle Primers
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CCI No. 200 Large Rifle (versatile, works with most powders)
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Federal 210M Match Large Rifle (benchrest-level precision)
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Remington 9½ Large Rifle (durable, consistent in cold weather)
3. Best Magnum Primers (Rifle & Pistol)
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CCI No. 350 Small Pistol Magnum (hotter ignition for .357 Mag)
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Federal 215 Large Rifle Magnum (ideal for .300 Win Mag & big game loads)
4. Best Benchrest & Competition Primers
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Federal Gold Medal Match Small Rifle (#205M – preferred by PRS shooters)
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BR-4 Benchrest Primers (ultra-consistent for .223 & 6.5 Creedmoor)
Primer Reloading FAQ – Expert Answers
“What’s the difference between small and large primers?”
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Small primers → Used in 9mm, .223, .308 (some cases)
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Large primers → Found in .45 ACP, .30-06, magnum cartridges
“Can I substitute magnum primers for standard primers?”
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Yes, but reduce powder charge by 5-10% (magnum primers burn hotter).
“Why are military primers (like CCI #41) different?”
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Harder cups → Reduce slam-fire risk in AR-15s & military rifles.
“Are primers still hard to find ?”
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Availability has improved, but Federal & CCI primers sell out fast.
Why Primer Choice Matters
✔ Consistency → Match-grade primers improve accuracy.
✔ Reliability → Cheap primers can cause misfires.
✔ Safety → Wrong primer type can cause overpressure.
Where to Buy Primers Online (Hazmat Fee Required)
✔ Brownells (large inventory, frequent restocks)
✔ FIREARMSPEDDLER (fast shipping, good deals)
✔ Powder Valley (best bulk pricing for reloaders)
Final Verdict: What’s the Best Primer for Reloading?
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Pistol reloading? → Federal Gold Medal or CCI No. 500
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Precision rifle? → Federal 210M or CCI BR-4
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Magnum cartridges? → Federal 215 or CCI No. 350