Primer question

[Challenger44]

I'm reloading for my 44 magnum and am wondering if I can use "Large Handgun Primer Magnum" primers or if I can only use "Large Handgun" primers? I don't know if I use the Magnum primers if I can reduce my powder load, or if it's just not reccomended.

 

[NavyLCDR]

.44 Magnum

23.0 grains of H110 powder can drive a 240 grain jacketed bullet at a MV of 1411 fps, and a maximum load of 24.0 grains of H110 can drive the same bullet at a MV of 1548 fps. These figures were achieved in a 7" pressure test barrel. The MAP of the latter load is 39,300 cup. Large pistol magnum primers were used for these loads.

 

[Arc Angel]

Not to overlook the obvious, but what does one of your reloading manuals say?

I don't like to give reloading specifics over the internet; however, as a general rule, if you use a hotter primer (magnum) then you should, also, reduce the powder charge by up to several tenths of a grain. In any event, stay away from the top of the chart(s) and you should be OK.

 

[Bighouse Doc]

Certain powders are more sensitive to a hotter ignition than other. A more powerful primer may be needed with certain ball powders in a larger case.

The best bet is to follow the data.

-Doc

 

[steelhammer]

the rule of thumb is always use standard unless the load data specifies magnum, too little powder, of a very slow burning variety, can sometimes cause too much pressure. unrelated to your magnum primer question, if you want a lite load, use a medium burning powder. for an ultra lite load, use a very quick powder. i wish i was more helpful, been reloading since 1986 had good results over the years, but i always tried not to expieriment with load data. I am fond of 44spec. loads in my 44 magnum

 

[flintlock62]

The short answer is yes, you can use magnum primers. Go to the starting load, and work up. The magnum primer has a hotter spark, so use typically 10% less than a full or "never exceed" load. Be careful! Do you know how to red primers for pressure?

 

[Mobuck]

Best advice is follow the manual's recommendations since that's what they based their performance on. General rule of thumb is some powders require a magnum primer-296, H110 come to mind immediately. Winchester large pistol primers say they work where both LP and LPM are recommended. I only use CCI magnums where such is indicated. Substituting a magnum for standard may increase pressures and/or require a reduction in powder charge.
All this info is included in every reloading manual I've ever had. It's put there for a reason.