The primer is the least understood part of a cartridge or a shotshell. It’s a word you may have heard if you have and regularly use firearms, but it’s one that’s generally not fully understood. A primer is one of the four parts of a rifle or handgun cartridge: primer, powder, case, and bullet. In shotguns, the primer is one of five parts of a shotshell: primer, hull, wad, powder, and shot. In a handgun, it’s one of four elements of a cartridge, along with the case, bullet, and powder. Let’s learn more about primer in a gun, what it does, and why it’s essential.
The Role Of Primer
The major role of the primer in a cartridge is to ignite the propellant powder. To complete this task, the primer has a small amount of explosive inside that’s attached by a metal cap. The explosive powder is generally a mix of lead, barium nitrate, styphnate, antimony sulfide, and tetrazene. Cheddite primers allow the use of small doses of powder and provide ideal ballistic results.
The Primer Cap
The primer cap is also a crucial part of the primer. Generally made of copper alloy, these caps are generally plated with nickel. Caps are essential because they come in different diameters to allow for firing variations. Due to the explosive nature of the powder, primers utilized for reloading are separately packed.
Primer Variations
The diameter of the cap isn’t just a variation with primers. They also differ according to the type of gun being utilized. Rifle primers are thicker than the ones utilized for handguns since a hotter flash is required for rifles. There are five primer sizes. Berdan and Boxer are the two kinds of primers, and the Boxer type with a single flash hole is more common among U.S. manufacturers. Berdan primers are unique since the anvil is integrated into the case. Here Are some other different types of primers for different firearms.
Rimfire Versus Centerfire Primers
Rimfire primers are made into the casing itself and cannot be substituted. Centerfire primers, on the contrary, are changed during the reloading procedure.
Standard Versus Magnum Primers
Most individuals think that magnum primers are just used with magnum cartridges. This is not always the case. For instance, magnum primers are sometimes utilized when working with spherical gunpowder, which takes a little more heat to ignite. That’s because magnum primers burn a bit hotter than their standard counterparts. However, you should never replace magnum primers with non-magnum primers unless your reloading manual states that it’s okay.
How The Primer Works During The Firing Process
The firing procedure that involves the primer begins when the trigger is activated and discharged on your gun. When this occurs, an effect takes place that results in the following steps:
• The firing pin strikes the primer cap
• The force of the pin crushes the priming blend between the anvil and cap
• The effect causes the priming blend to explode as hot steam expels through the flash hole and into the cartridge case
This procedure then generates pressure to rise within the cartridge case as the temperature spikes inside. What this eventually does is ignite the propellant powder so the firing procedure can be finished. To be effective, this procedure must take place really fast—about 1,500 microseconds is the average speed.
Proper Storage
There is no doubt that cheddite primers can allow your cartridges to perform as expected but It’s worth noting your ammunition should be kept in a cool, dry place. One of the major reasons for this suggestion is that heat, humidity, and moisture can affect the primer in your ammo. If the primer is affected or damaged by different conditions in some way, you may experience negligent releases or other potentially harmful effects. This is why proper care is essential for your firearm and your ammo. One of the most significant aspects of being a responsible gun owner is familiarizing yourself with different types of ammunition.
How To Stay Safe When Working with Primers
Here are some tips for handling primers safely:
- Always wear eye protection when reloading – this protection could save your vision in the event that a primer ignites during the reloading procedure.
- Make sure the primer is appropriately placed in the casing – so that it’s not jutting out past the cartridge or inserted so deeply that it may misfire.
- Just work with one type of primer at a time – this will support prevention of mix-ups.
Understanding what a primer is can enable you to understand how your cartridge or shotshell functions. By protecting the primer, you are protecting your ammunition. After all, the primer is the key to the cartridge’s powder. Taking care of your ammunition is just as crucial as taking care of your firearm. And don’t forget about safety while working with primers.
