SmythBusters: Can Primers Be Reused?

In this episode of SmythBusters, Caleb discusses whether it's safe to reuse primers, a question posed by an old gunsmith friend. While it’s technically possible to remove primers from one cartridge and reuse them in another, the process comes with risks, such as the potential for igniting the primer if done too quickly. Caleb shares personal experiences, offering advice on how to safely remove primers, including going slow with your press and wearing eye protection. He also recommends not reusing primers in large batches, emphasizing caution when handling live primers. The video concludes with tips for safe primer handling and disposal.

What You Will Learn

Introduction

Welcome to another exciting episode of Smith Busters! Today, we're discussing a topic brought to us by an old gunsmith friend of mine, Casey Rabet, also known as Slim. He asked, "Can you reuse primers?" It's a question many reloaders have probably asked at some point. Let's break it down.

What Does Reusing Primers Mean?

When we talk about reusing primers, we're not talking about reloading a primer with new priming compound. Instead, we're discussing whether you can take a primer out of a loaded cartridge or one that you've already primed and reuse it in another case.

For example, if you've primed a bunch of .308 cases and then decide you don't want to load .308 anymore, can you safely remove those primers and use them in other cases? The process involves punching out a primer with a pin, similar to a firing pin, but from the opposite direction.

Potential Risks

Is it a good idea to reuse primers? Let's explore the risks:

• Compressing the Anvil: When you remove a primer, you're compressing the anvil down onto the priming compound. This could potentially set off the primer.
• Slow and Steady: If you decide to remove a primer, you need to pull the handle on your press very slowly to avoid igniting it. It's a reverse firing pin action.
• Not Recommended for Large Batches: While it's possible to reuse a primer, it's not something you should do frequently or in large quantities. The risk increases with the number of primers you're handling.

Real-World Experience

In my earlier days, when I couldn't afford a lot of components, I did reuse primers occasionally. I'd remove them carefully and reuse them, and they worked fine. However, I didn't make a habit of it or do it in large batches.

If you need to de-prime a bunch of brass with live primers and don't want to save the primers, you can deactivate them by soaking them in water for about an hour. After that, you can safely remove and dispose of them without the risk of setting them off.

Conclusion

So, can you reuse primers? Technically, yes. Should you? It's not something we recommend. If you do decide to try it, make sure to:

• Go Slow: Pull the handle on your press very slowly to avoid igniting the primer.
• Wear Eye Protection: Always protect your eyes when working with primers.
• Avoid Oil Contamination: Ensure no oil gets on the primers, as this can deactivate them.

It's a practice that carries risks, but if done carefully, it can be done safely. If you have any experiences or opinions on this topic, we'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts.

In the meantime, keep your eye protection on, your ear protection ready, and join us next time for another exciting episode of Smith Busters.