Primer question

[PA BEN]

I'm looking for primers for 7mm-08. My Nosler book recommends WLR primers. The question I have is, are these 6-1/2 Small Rifle or 8-1/2" Large Rifle for the 7mm-08? Also, what does 6-1/2 and 8-1/2 mean? I'm just starting to reload and gathering components.

[Gutpile]

6 1/2 are small rifle primers for 22 hirnet type loads. 7 1/2 are standard small rifle. .223 etc etc. A 7mm-08 would need a Large rifle primers..  In fact the 6 1/2's shouldn't even fit.

I've never used 8 1/2's but I would assume they are standard large rifle primers like the WLR. Don't use them till someone else chimes in but thats my guess.

[Gutpile]

I did a little reading and apparently Winchester used to use the numbers as well. Are they Win primers? If so 6 1/2 are small rifle and 8 1/2 are large rifle. Weird, I have never heard of them till now.

[Huntbear]

You need Large Rifle primers... However, since they are so hard to find, I am working up loads for my 7mm-08 with Large Rifle Magnum primers, and Win. 760 powder, and 140 gr. Ballistic Tips.  Getting pretty good results so far.

[TheHunt]

As and FYI, If you pick a primer and use that to build a load for your rifle, then you switch to another primer it will effect you bullet. 

[Huntbear]

As and FYI, If you pick a primer and use that to build a load for your rifle, then you switch to another primer it will effect you bullet. 

It may also affect pressures, so reduce the load and work back up....

[PA BEN]

Thanks guys Does a magnum primer add to the power load size?

[Gutpile]

Magnum primers are a bit hotter to ingnite heavy magnum loads. You can use them in standard loads but be carefull. I hear they can affect pressure. I've used them but only when the book calls for it.

[buckhorn2]

I read where the difference between large rifle primers and large rifle magnum primers is equivelent to a half grain of powder.

[Huntbear]

Thanks guys Does a magnum primer add to the power load size?

It will affect it, not add to it.  Just start with the beginning loads in the manual, and then work up.  As long as you look for pressure signs as you go, and are careful about it, you will be fine.

[lazydrifter]

PA BEN, When you get ready to start, let me know if you need a few primers.  I have some WLR.  I could spare a few.  Not a lot but enough to get you going and I'm in PA. I know swains has been getting a few in but not many and you have to hit it right.

   Brant