Blown Primers

[Billl223]

I've been loading .223 for several years using 77 gr SMK, 8208, and Starline brass. I can't currently get the powder or brass and am trying Norma brass and AR-Comp. My initial trial load resulted in pressure signs and a few blown primers. I had last loaded some 55 gr loads and forgot to reset OAL for the 77 gr bullet. The difference in OAL was about .035". Is this enough to cause the high pressure?

 

[37L1]

Yep.

 

[Doom]

Do I read this correctly, you changed powder and brass, didn’t adjust the seating die and measure the round, and just picked a powder charge?

 

[Nailbender]

Do I read this correctly, you changed powder and brass, didn’t adjust the seating die and measure the round, and just picked a powder charge?

It's just a small explosive held next to your face. Calm down!

 

[Doom]

It's just a small explosive held next to your face. Calm down!

Silly me, what was I thinking,

 

[MtnCreek]

Check the firing pin to make sure it isn't damaged.

 

[n0glock]

good news is the RCBS collet bullet puller works really well and does not damage bullets if used correctly.

 

[KnowNothing256]

OP, changing components means working up again. Brass has a pretty minimal effect, so if you change ONLY that the workup can be maybe a 3-5% reduction in powder charge. Changing powder is an automatic start at the manual minimum for me.

 

[smoothy8500]

I had last loaded some 55 gr loads and forgot to reset OAL for the 77 gr bullet. The difference in OAL was about .035"

Projectiles seated deeper in the case will increase pressure substantially. No way around it, you will need the bullet-puller.

 

[Billl223]

Projectiles seated deeper in the case will increase pressure substantially. No way around it, you will need the bullet-puller.

Thanks for the replies. Fortunately I only loaded 20 rounds. I just loaded another 10 @ proper OAL. Off to the range to chrono.

 

[KnowNothing256]

Thanks for the replies. Fortunately I only loaded 20 rounds. I just loaded another 10 @ proper OAL. Off to the range to chrono.

...with a minimum powder charge to start, right?