One of the key advantages of air rifles is their sound. Unlike traditional firearms, air rifles don’t produce an explosion when fired, making them a good option for hunting or self-defense in areas where noise could attract unwanted attention. They’re not silent by any means, but especially when shooting subsonic, air rifles are much quieter. Modern air rifles can also be as accurate as traditional firearms, making them ideal for hunting small game. There are also larger caliber air rifles that can even be used for big game, or even self defense.

Another advantage of air rifles is their versatility. There is a wide range of air rifles available, from high-powered models designed for hunting to low-powered models designed for target shooting. This versatility allows you to choose an air rifle that meets your specific needs, whether it be for survival or target shooting. Additionally, many air rifles use pellets, which are readily available and affordable, making them a cost-effective option.

When considering an air rifle for survival or SHTF situations, it’s important to choose a model that is durable and reliable. A high-quality air rifle should have a sturdy build, a good trigger, and a reliable pumping mechanism. Some air rifles are also equipped with features such as a suppressor, adjustable stock, and a built-in air pressure gauge, which can be useful in a survival situation.

My Favorite Air Rifle, And Go To for SHTF

My favorite air rifle is the Benjamin Bulldog. The Benjamin Bulldog is a pneumatic air rifle produced by Crosman Corporation. It is a high-powered airgun that uses pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) technology, which allows for a compressed air cylinder to be charged up to a high pressure and then used to power shots. Did I mention it shoots a .357 caliber bullet? That’s a big hole. The Benjamin Bulldog has been known for its accuracy and power, making it popular for hunting and target shooting. It typically has a bullpup design, meaning the action is located behind the trigger, which gives it a compact overall length while still having a long barrel. This makes it highly maneuverable, and it packs quite a punch.

Benjamin Bulldog .357 Hunting Rifle

Maintaining an Air Rifle In a Survival Situation

In terms of maintenance, air rifles are relatively low-maintenance compared to traditional firearms. They require little cleaning and can be easily repaired if something goes wrong. This makes them an ideal choice for those who are looking for a weapon that is both low-maintenance and reliable.

The most common thing to break or wear out on an air rifle are the O-rings or gaskets. O-rings are used to seal the air cylinder and prevent air from escaping. They can wear or break over time, leading to leaks and reduced performance. I like to have both gasket material on hand and extra o rings, just in case.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an air rifle can be a valuable tool in a survival or SHTF situation. They are quiet, accurate, versatile, and low-maintenance, making them a great option for hunting, self-defense, or target shooting. When choosing an air rifle, it’s important to select a model that is durable, reliable, and meets your specific needs. With the right air rifle, you can be prepared for any situation.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

The post Air Rifles for Survival Purposes appeared first on Apocalyptic Prepping.

About the 30-06

The .30-06 Springfield cartridge is a rifle cartridge that was developed by the United States Army in 1906. It is also known as the “Thirty-aught-six” or “7.62x63mm” (mm referring to millimeter). It is one of the most popular and versatile cartridges in the world and is commonly used for hunting and target shooting. The cartridge is named after its caliber (0.30 inches) and the year it was adopted (1906). It is a powerful cartridge that is suitable for taking large game, such as deer and elk, at long ranges. It is also a popular cartridge for long-range target shooting. The .30-06 Springfield cartridge is used in many actions of rifles, including semi-automatic, bolt-action, lever-actions, and my grandpa even used to shoot a pump action 30-06.

What Size Primer for 30-06

The 30-06 cartridge uses a large rifle primer. This is standard primer size used for centerfire rifle cartridges .30 caliber and larger. Most all reloading manuals list the large rifle primer. I always like to check 2 or 3 manuals when doing load development for a new load. Some people do experiment though with other primers.

Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading

Using Large Rifle Magnum Primers for 30-06

Especially when there’s a primer shortage, people often wonder if they can use other primers in their reloading. More than any other question about 30-06 reloading, I get asked if you can use large rifle magnum primers for 30-06.

I’m going to reemphasize, standard large rifle primers are recommended for the 30-06 cartridge, as they are designed to ignite the powder charge in cartridges with case capacities and pressure similar to the 30-06. It’s important to always use the correct primer size and type for the cartridge you are loading to ensure safe and reliable performance. It is recommended that you always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and industry standards when reloading any cartridge. That said, many people have experimented with magnum primers, and some have even found some success.

Berger Bullets Reloading Manual

Magnum primers are designed to ignite the powder charge in cartridges with larger case capacities and higher pressure than standard cartridges. They have a hotter and longer lasting flame which helps to ignite the slower burning powders used in magnum cartridges. However, the 30-06 cartridge is not considered a magnum cartridge and it uses standard powders, and using magnum primers can result in higher pressure and potentially dangerous situations. If you want to experiment with magnum primers, start with a smaller load, and work up safely and carefully, watching for signs of danger and pressure. You are literally playing with fire, so be EXTRA careful.

Can I Use Large Pistol Primers in the 30-06?

No. You cannot and should not even try to use large pistol primers in the 30-06. Large rifle and large pistol primers are not the same dimensions. A large pistol primer is a little smaller. A small pistol and small rifle primer are the same dimensions, and there is a little bit more capacity for experimentation (and some people do with 9mm primers and 223 primers). Not so with large rifle and large pistol. Your firing pin won’t be spaced to strike consistently, to say nothing of the pressure problems. The 30-06 uses a lot of pressure and powder. Don’t try it. The same goes for large pistol magnum primers. It’s not remotely safe or compatible. Don’t do it.

Possible Primers to Use in 30-06

• CCI 200 Large Rifle
• CCI BR2 Match
• Federal 210 Large Rifle
• Federal 210M Match Large Rifle
• Winchester WLR
• Fiocchi Large Rifle Primer
• Norma Superflash LR
• Remington 9 1/2 LR
• Sellier and Bellot Large Rifle

Possible Magnum Primers to Experiment With for 30-06

• Federal 215M Magnum Match
• Federal 215
• Remington 9 1/2 Magnum
• CCI 250 Magnum

About Primers

The primer is the small, cylindrical component that sits in the base of the cartridge and contains a small amount of an impact-sensitive explosive mixture. When the rifle’s firing pin strikes the primer, it ignites the mixture, which in turn ignites the powder in the cartridge and propels the bullet out of the barrel. The primer is an essential component of the cartridge and is responsible for initiating the firing sequence.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

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What is Martial Law?

Martial law is a type of government rule in which the military is given control over the civilian government and society, typically in response to a emergency situation such as war, rebellion, or natural disaster. Under martial law, the military has the authority to make and enforce laws, and to suspend civil liberties such as the right to a fair trial and freedom of speech. It is usually imposed temporarily and lifted when the emergency situation is over.

Preppers, who are people who prepare for emergencies and disasters, may take various steps to prepare for a potential martial law scenario. Some possible actions include:

• Storing non-perishable food, water, and other supplies: Preppers may stockpile food and water, in case they are unable to purchase them during a martial law situation.
• Securing firearms and ammunition: Preppers may own firearms for self-defense and hunting, and they may want to make sure they have enough ammunition to last for a while.
• Building or fortifying a home: Preppers may want to make sure their home is secure and can withstand potential attacks or breaches. This could include adding locks, security cameras, and other protective measures.
• Building a network of contacts: Preppers may want to build a network of contacts who they can rely on during a martial law situation, including friends, family, and other preppers.
• Having a bug out location: Preppers may have a location outside of the city or area that they can retreat to in case of emergency, and have a plan to get there.

It’s worth noting that martial law can vary in its implementation, and it’s hard to predict exactly how it will play out in a given scenario. Preparing for martial law would be similar to preparing for any other type of emergency or disaster, with an emphasis on self-sufficiency, self-defense, and security.

Martial Law Being Declared Throughout History

martial law has been declared in various countries and regions throughout history. Some examples include:

• United States: Martial law has been declared several times in the US, including during the Civil War, World War II, and some consider the response to civil unrest and natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina as Martial Law as well.
• Philippines: Martial law was declared by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1972 and remained in effect until 1981.
• Egypt: Martial law was imposed in Egypt after the 2011 revolution and was lifted in 2012
• Poland: Martial law was declared in Poland in 1981 and was in effect until 1983.
• China: Martial law has been declared in several regions of China, including during the Chinese Civil War, the Cultural Revolution, and in response to the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989.

It’s worth noting that the term “martial law” can be used in different ways, and the specifics of how it is implemented can vary from country to country and from situation to situation.

Was Martial Law Really Declared During Hurricane Katrina?

Martial law was not declared during Hurricane Katrina in the United States, but the military was deployed to the affected areas to assist with relief efforts and maintain order.

In the aftermath of the storm, the governor of Louisiana, Kathleen Blanco, issued a state of emergency and requested assistance from the federal government. The President, George W. Bush, declared a state of emergency in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, which allowed for the deployment of federal resources and personnel to the affected areas. The Department of Defense, through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Guard, provided assistance with search and rescue, evacuation, and the distribution of aid.

It’s worth noting that in the US, the term “martial law” is generally understood to mean that the military is given control over the civilian government and society, with the authority to make and enforce laws, and to suspend civil liberties. The military response to Hurricane Katrina did not involve the suspension of civil liberties or the military taking control of government and society.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

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What Could Lead to Global Catastrophes or SHTF Scenarios?

There are many potential global catastrophes that could occur, including:

1. Nuclear war: A large-scale nuclear conflict could have devastating consequences for the entire world, including mass casualties and long-term radiation effects.
2. Pandemics: The outbreak of a highly contagious and deadly disease could spread rapidly across the globe, overwhelming healthcare systems and causing widespread illness and death.
3. Climate change: The continued warming of the planet could lead to rising sea levels, more severe weather events, and changes in precipitation patterns that could threaten food and water supplies, as well as destabilize economies and political systems.
4. Natural disasters: Earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and other natural disasters can cause widespread damage and disruption, particularly in areas that are not well-prepared.
5. Cyber attacks: The increasing dependence on technology in modern society makes us vulnerable to cyber-attacks that could cripple critical infrastructure and disrupt essential services.
6. Asteroids: A large asteroid impact could cause massive destruction and loss of life.
7. Solar flare: A solar flare can have a major impact on the Earth’s infrastructure, including power grid, satellite and communication systems, and navigation systems.

It’s important to note that the likelihood of these events varies greatly and many of these events have low likelihood but high impact. Therefore, it’s important for individuals and communities to be prepared for a variety of potential emergencies, and to take steps to mitigate the risks associated with them.

Additionally, you may be at higher risk for some of these disasters depending on where you live, rural vs city, your climate, and your local political scene. I like to start prepping in terms of what is most likely.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

The post How Close Are We to SHTF? appeared first on Apocalyptic Prepping.

Why You Might Want to Bug Out of the City

• Natural disasters: In the event of a natural disaster such as a hurricane, tornado, or earthquake, it may be safer to leave the city and seek shelter elsewhere.
• Civil unrest: In the event of civil unrest or riots, it may be safer to leave the city in order to avoid violence and potential harm.
• Pandemics: In the event of a pandemic outbreak, it may be safer to leave the city in order to avoid infection and protect yourself and your family.
• Economic collapse: In the event of an economic collapse, it may be safer to leave the city in order to avoid the dangers associated with food and resource scarcity.
• Power Outages: In the event of a long-term power outage, it may be safer to leave the city in order to avoid the dangers associated with lack of heat, light, clean water, and food.
• Government-declared emergency: In the event of a government-declared emergency, it may be safer to leave the city in order to avoid the dangers associated with being in a crowded urban area.
• Nuclear attack: In the event of a nuclear attack, it may be safer to leave the city in order to avoid the dangers associated with radiation and fallout.
• Terrorist attack: In the event of a terrorist attack, it may be safer to leave the city in order to avoid the dangers associated with the attack and the potential for additional attacks.

In general, the main idea behind bugging out is to get away from a dangerous area or event, and to a safer location where you can wait out the crisis and be able to survive.

Making Your Bug Out Plan

If you are planning on “bugging out” of the city, there are several things that you should be aware of:

1. Have a plan: Before you leave, make sure you have a destination in mind and a plan for getting there. Consider multiple routes and have a backup plan in case your primary route is blocked.
2. Gather supplies: Make sure you have enough food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. Consider carrying a portable water filter, a first aid kit, and a means to start a fire.
3. Travel light: Try to pack only the essentials and leave behind anything that is not absolutely necessary.
4. Stay informed: Keep up to date on the latest news and weather conditions, and be aware of any potential dangers that may be present in your area.
5. Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings at all times, and try to avoid areas that may be dangerous, such as those that have been affected by natural disasters or civil unrest.
6. Be aware of the laws and regulations in your area. Bugging out in some places might be illegal.
7. Have a communication plan: Make sure you have a way to communicate with family and friends, and have a plan in place for how you will stay in touch if you get separated.

It’s essential to be prepared, stay aware and have a plan before bugging out.

Things to be aware of when actually bugging out:

When bugging out of a city, it is important to avoid drawing attention to yourself and your plans. This is because in an emergency situation, there may be limited resources and supplies available, and drawing attention to yourself could make you a target for criminals or others looking to take advantage of the situation. Here are some ways to avoid drawing attention when bugging out:

1. Be discreet: Don’t advertise your plans to bug out to everyone you know. Only tell the people you trust and who are also planning to bug out. Also avoid discussing your plans on social media or other public platforms.
2. Avoid drawing attention to yourself: Don’t carry large amounts of supplies or equipment that will make you stand out. Instead, try to blend in with your surroundings and keep a low profile.
3. Use stealth: When leaving the city, try to avoid busy roads and instead use back roads and paths that are less likely to be crowded. Also consider traveling at night or in the early morning, when there are fewer people around.
4. Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you at all times. If you sense danger, trust your instincts and take steps to protect yourself.
5. Avoid confrontation: If you encounter someone who may be a threat, avoid confrontation if possible. Instead, try to find a way to get away from the situation and get to a safe place.
6. Be prepared for the unexpected: Even if you take steps to avoid drawing attention to yourself, unexpected events can still happen. Be prepared for anything and have a plan in place in case things go wrong.
7. Have a good cover story: Have a good cover story in case you are questioned by authorities or others. It will help you not to attract attention and avoid conflicts.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure your safety and increase your chances of successfully bugging out of a city. Remember that in an emergency situation, your safety is the most important thing, so take the necessary precautions to avoid drawing attention to yourself and your plans.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

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Check to Make Sure Your Generator is Grounded

Grounding is critical. If you’ve got a portable generator, the first thing on our safety checklist is to make sure its firmly on the ground. You don’t want to put it on sticks, plants, wood, etc. You want that generator on the dirt. Plus you don’t need to pull out the lawn for it, but as close to dirt as you can possibly get, get there.

Extension Cord Safety

You need good extension cords. Keep a spare on hand along with a good supply of electrical tape and everything you’d need to repair a cord if need be. If your cord is compromised, or you’ve had to MacGyver a repair in an emergency, replace that cord as soon as possible.

Fuel Safety

Make sure your gas is full. Then you need to store your fuel away from your generator. It might seem like a hassle, but my rule of thumb is 20 feet at the very least. We also recommend you are storing your fuel safely the rest of the time as well.

Oil

Check the oil. Make sure you have extra oil on hand. Also, check the oil while the unit is not running. Otherwise you’ll get splashed with hot oil. I don’t recommend it. Check your oil with the machine OFF.

Weather Awareness

You don’t want to stick you generator in a puddle, or where water can pool if its raining. A pop up tent or a dog house or some other thing to put over it if your unit isn’t waterproof. Vents and air circulation is a must though. You never want to run your generator indoors, no matter what the weather is like. Some might think its obvious, and some might think this should have come first on our portable generator safety checklist, but I’ll repeat- DON’T RUN YOUR MACHINE INDOORS. Not even in a garage.

I like to have a pop up tent on hand for my generator. A pop up shower or changing tent is my go to. It folds down nice and small, but is big enough, and has enough ventilation so that you’re not going to melt your tent. It’s also one of the cheapest tent on the market. You don’t need the most comfortable tent for a generator, but these things work. They also don’t have a bottom so they won’t mess with your grounding. The one below is one I like to have on hand. I don’t always set it up, but I’d rather have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it.

Pop Up Tent, Shower & Changing Tent- Collapsible Outdoor Shelter

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure your house has them, and that you have one close to the generator. Also, make sure your detectors are not reliant on the grid. It needs to be battery powered, or at least battery backed up. Otherwise it won’t work when you need it the most.

Start Up Smart

Plug in your devices one at a time. When a device is starting, it takes a larger initial surge of power to get it going, then levels off at a much lower electrical load. You don’t want to have all your devices to be doing their start up surges all at once.

Once you’re up and running, make sure you’re getting proper voltage. GFIC outlets and surge protectors can help ensure you’re not getting too much power, but you also need to make sure your generator is producing enough power. Having a Kil-a-Watt is HUGE. This device tells you how much power a device is using. I got my first one to help me reduce cost and reduce my power usage, but in an emergency situation, or just when you’re using your generator for fun, you need to make sure you’re getting the right amount of power. This also helps you see when devices are done with their initial start up surge.

Kil-a-Watt

Security

Chains are good. Do not use cables. Cables are a lot easier than chains to cut. Chains also look more formidable. If you can have your generator out of sight, its a step in the right direction for security. You probably aren’t going to be able to hide the sound, but out of sight just makes it more effort for any malicious actors.

Conclusion

Checklists are excellent tools to ensure you don’t forget any important steps in a process. Electrical generators can be dangerous, so it is vital that they are used correctly. This checklist will help ensure you are aware of all the necessary steps and precautions that should be followed in order to safely operate an electrical generator.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

The post Portable Generator Safety Checklist appeared first on Apocalyptic Prepping.

What is Bamboo Used For?

I knew bamboo was really popular in eastern culture, but I started doing some research. Bamboo is used for a variety of purposes, including construction, furniture, flooring, textiles, and paper production. I’ve even got a cutting board made from bamboo. It is also used in the production of various food and beverage products, such as bamboo shoots and bamboo-derived alcohol. Additionally, bamboo is used in traditional medicine and as an ornamental plant in gardens. Because it is a fast-growing and renewable resource, it is also being researched for use in biofuel production.

Why You Should Consider Planting Bamboo

Preppers may want to plant bamboo for a variety of reasons, such as its fast-growing and renewable nature, its versatility as a resource, and its potential use as a food source.

Bamboo can grow quickly, up to 91 cm (36 in) in 24 hours, under the right conditions and can be harvested within 3-5 years. This means that it can be a reliable source of materials for construction, furniture, flooring, textiles, and paper production.

In terms of food, bamboo shoots are edible and can be a source of nutrition. I like them in my stir fry. Additionally, bamboo can be used to make alcohol, which can be a source of bartering or trade.

Bamboo also has practical uses such as fencing, privacy screening, windbreak, erosion control, and soil stabilization. It can also be used for animal feed and forage for livestock.

In summary, planting bamboo can provide a prepper with a reliable and versatile resource that can be used for a variety of purposes, including construction, food, and trade. It can also be used to make weapons.

Bamboo for Weapons

Bamboo can be used to make a variety of weapons, such as spears, arrows, blow darts, and staffs. In ancient times and in some cultures, bamboo was also used to make swords and other edged weapons. The strength and flexibility of bamboo make it well-suited for use in weapons, as it can withstand the impact of striking or thrusting while remaining relatively lightweight.

Bamboo spears are particularly popular in certain cultures, as they are easy to make and can be used for both hunting and self-defense. Bamboo arrows can also be made and used with a traditional bow. Blow darts can also be made from bamboo, which can be used for hunting small game or for self-defense.

Conclusion

It shouldn’t come as any surprise that I didn’t end up cutting down that bamboo patch I had growing. Bamboo is far too versatile, and I’m highly considering planting more. Bamboo has been a staple in many cultures for thousands of years. Learning how to use it can increase your chances for survival and success in an apocalyptic situation.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

The post Bamboo for Preppers appeared first on Apocalyptic Prepping.

About the 243 Winchester

The .243 Winchester cartridge is a rifle cartridge that was introduced by Winchester Repeating Arms Company in 1955. It is based on the .308 Winchester cartridge case and uses a .243 inch diameter bullet. The cartridge is popular for hunting medium-sized game such as deer, coyote, and pronghorn, and is known for its accuracy and low recoil. It is typically loaded with bullets weighing between 55 and 105 grains, with the most common weight being 100 grains. The cartridge is often used by varmint hunters and target shooters due to its accuracy, flat trajectory, and low recoil. In addition, the .243 Winchester cartridge is also popular for youth hunters, as its low recoil can make it easier for younger or smaller-framed shooters to handle.

The .243 Winchester cartridge is a versatile and widely used cartridge for hunting and target shooting. Selecting the right primer size for this cartridge is critical to ensure consistent ignition, optimal performance, and accurate shooting. In this blog post, we will explore the different primer sizes available for the .243 Winchester and their effects on pressure, velocity, and accuracy. Understanding primer size is an important aspect of handloading this cartridge and can help you achieve your desired performance. Whether you’re looking to maximize accuracy, achieve a specific velocity, or simply maintain reliable ignition, this post will guide you in choosing the right primer size for your .243 Winchester loads.

What Size Primer for 243

The 243 Winchester cartridge uses a large rifle primer. This is standard primer size used for centerfire rifle cartridges .30 caliber and larger. Most all reloading manuals list the large rifle primer. I always like to check 2 or 3 manuals when doing load development for a new load. Some people do experiment though with other primers.

Lyman Reloading Manual

Using Large Rifle Magnum Primers for 243 Winchester

Especially when there’s a primer shortage, people often wonder if they can use other primers in their reloading. More than any other question about 243 Winchester reloading, I get asked if you can use large rifle magnum primers for 243 Winchester.

I’m going to reemphasize, standard large rifle primers are recommended for the 243 Winchester cartridge, as they are designed to ignite the powder charge in cartridges with case capacities and pressure similar to the 243 Winchester. It’s important to always use the correct primer size and type for the cartridge you are loading to ensure safe and reliable performance. It is recommended that you always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and industry standards when reloading any cartridge. That said, many people have experimented with magnum primers, and some have even found some success.

Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading

Magnum primers are designed to ignite the powder charge in cartridges with larger case capacities and higher pressure than standard cartridges. They have a hotter and longer lasting flame which helps to ignite the slower burning powders used in magnum cartridges. However, the 243 Winchester cartridge is not considered a magnum cartridge and it uses standard powders, and using magnum primers can result in higher pressure and potentially dangerous situations. If you want to experiment with magnum primers, start with a smaller load, and work up safely and carefully, watching for signs of danger and pressure. You are literally playing with fire, so be EXTRA careful.

Can I Use Large Pistol Primers in the 243 Winchester?

No. You cannot and should not even try to use large pistol primers in the 243 Winchester. Large rifle and large pistol primers are not the same dimensions. A large pistol primer is a little smaller. A small pistol and small rifle primer are the same dimensions, and there is a little bit more capacity for experimentation (and some people do with 40 S&W primers and 300 Blackout primers). Not so with large rifle and large pistol primers. Your firing pin won’t be spaced to strike consistently, to say nothing of the pressure problems. The 243 Winchester uses a lot of pressure and powder. Don’t try it. The same goes for large pistol magnum primers. It’s not remotely safe or compatible. Don’t do it.

Possible Primers to Use in 243 Winchester

• CCI 200 Large Rifle
• CCI BR2 Match
• Federal 210 Large Rifle
• Federal 210M Match Large Rifle
• Winchester WLR
• Fiocchi Large Rifle Primer
• Norma Superflash LR
• Remington 9 1/2 LR
• Sellier and Bellot Large Rifle

Possible Magnum Primers to Experiment With for 243 Winchester

• Federal 215M Magnum Match
• Federal 215
• Remington 9 1/2 Magnum
• CCI 250 Magnum

About Primers

The primer is the small, cylindrical component that sits in the base of the cartridge and contains a small amount of an impact-sensitive explosive mixture. When the rifle’s firing pin strikes the primer, it ignites the mixture, which in turn ignites the powder in the cartridge and propels the bullet out of the barrel. The primer is an essential component of the cartridge and is responsible for initiating the firing sequence.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

The post Primers For The 243 Winchester appeared first on Apocalyptic Prepping.

About the 270 Winchester

The .270 Winchester cartridge is a rifle cartridge that was introduced by Winchester Repeating Arms Company in 1925. It is based on the .30-06 Springfield cartridge and uses a .277 inch diameter bullet. The cartridge is commonly used for hunting medium-sized game such as deer and elk, and is known for its accuracy, flat trajectory, and moderate recoil. It is typically loaded with bullets weighing between 130 and 150 grains, with the most common weight being 140 grains. The cartridge has a reputation for good performance at long ranges and is popular among hunters and long-range shooters.

The .270 Winchester cartridge is a versatile and widely used cartridge for hunting and long-range shooting. Choosing the right primer size for this cartridge is essential to ensure consistent ignition, accurate shooting, and optimal performance. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the different primer sizes available for the .270 Winchester and their effects on pressure, velocity, and accuracy. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, this post will provide valuable information on primer selection for the .270 Winchester. Whether you’re looking to maximize accuracy, achieve a specific velocity, or simply maintain reliable ignition, understanding primer size is an important aspect of handloading this cartridge.

What Size Primer for 270 Winchester

The 270 Winchester cartridge uses a large rifle primer. This is standard primer size used for many calibers using a larger cartridge and a moderate amount of powder. Most all reloading manuals list the large rifle primer. I always like to check 2 or 3 manuals when doing load development for a new load. Some people do experiment though with other primers.

Lee Precision Reloading Manual

Using Large Rifle Magnum Primers for 270 Winchester

Especially when there’s a primer shortage, people often wonder if they can use other primers in their reloading. More than any other question about 270 Winchester reloading, I get asked if you can use large rifle magnum primers for 270 Winchester.

I’m going to reemphasize, standard large rifle primers are recommended for the 270 Winchester cartridge, as they are designed to ignite the powder charge in cartridges with case capacities and pressure similar to the 270 Winchester. It’s important to always use the correct primer size and type for the cartridge you are loading to ensure safe and reliable performance. It is recommended that you always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and industry standards when reloading any cartridge. That said, many people have experimented with magnum primers, and some have even found some success.

Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading

Magnum primers are designed to ignite the powder charge in cartridges with larger case capacities and higher pressure than standard cartridges. They have a hotter and longer lasting flame which helps to ignite the slower burning powders used in magnum cartridges. However, the 270 Winchester cartridge is not considered a magnum cartridge and it uses standard powders, and using magnum primers can result in higher pressure and potentially dangerous situations. If you want to experiment with magnum primers, start with a smaller load, and work up safely and carefully, watching for signs of danger and pressure. You are literally playing with fire, so be EXTRA careful.

Can I Use Large Pistol Primers in the 270 Winchester?

No. You cannot and should not even try to use large pistol primers in the 270 Winchester. Large rifle and large pistol primers are not the same dimensions. A large pistol primer is a little smaller. A small pistol and small rifle primer are the same dimensions, and there is a little bit more capacity for experimentation (and some people do with 9mm primers and 223 primers). Not so with large rifle and large pistol. Your firing pin won’t be spaced to strike consistently, to say nothing of the pressure problems. The 270 Winchester uses a lot of pressure and powder. Don’t try it. The same goes for large pistol magnum primers. It’s not remotely safe or compatible. Don’t do it.

Possible Primers to Use in 270 Winchester

• CCI 200 Large Rifle
• CCI BR2 Match
• Federal 210 Large Rifle
• Federal 210M Match Large Rifle
• Winchester WLR
• Fiocchi Large Rifle Primer
• Norma Superflash LR
• Remington 9 1/2 LR
• Sellier and Bellot Large Rifle

Possible Magnum Primers to Experiment With for 270 Winchester

• Federal 215M Magnum Match
• Federal 215
• Remington 9 1/2 Magnum
• CCI 250 Magnum

About Primers

The primer is the small, cylindrical component that sits in the base of the cartridge and contains a small amount of an impact-sensitive explosive mixture. When the rifle’s firing pin strikes the primer, it ignites the mixture, which in turn ignites the powder in the cartridge and propels the bullet out of the barrel. The primer is an essential component of the cartridge and is responsible for initiating the firing sequence.

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Hand Tool

If you can turn a screw driver, you can work the hand tool. It’s simple and doesn’t fail. I honestly think everyone should have a hand reamer or hand case prep tool on your reloading bench. This is simple, and time consuming, but it works. You’ll end up with really strong forearms if you’re trying to use this for big batches of 556 or 223 cartridges. It has the reamers and deburring tools for both large and small primers. It’s the most cost effective and simple solution. Is it the best solution? Goodness no. But its the least expensive, it works, and can lend itself to other more effective options that I’ll discuss below. This is the one I’ve had on my bench for years. It’s also the one my reloading mentor had on his bench.

Lyman Case Prep Multi Tool

RCBS Press Tool

This pushes out the primer pocket, but doesn’t cut material. This works most of the time, and there is no risk of enlarging the primer pocket. What can occur though is that the tool compresses some of the brass from the crimp in the primer pocket, meaning you’ll have either an uneven, or a primer that is not fully seated.

Some people like this option in a multistage press. The nice thing about this one is that its hard to mess up. You don’t really have to think at all about this one. You just crank that press and it does its job. If you like to zone out or watch a show while reloading, this is one that you may want to consider. There are probably other brands, other than RCBS that do this same thing. I personally don’t like this style. There are better, faster options, and I prefer to cut away the crimp rather than just to press it. That said, its fast, and it has a 4.7 star rating on Amazon, so there are plenty of people that do like it.

RCBS Primer Pocket Swager

Primer Pocket Hand Tool Bits in a Drill

The hand tool is inexpensive, and most people have a drill. It makes it into a power tool. It’s efficient and cost effective. To be frank though, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do this. The first time I did this, I would just grab the cartridge in my hand and then drill into the pocket. Doing the primer pocket this way I actually had the bit catch the cartridge and the case mouth sliced my hand. It might sound like I’m a bit of a clumsy person, but I’m not (he types with a Band-Aid on his hand and scars on his fingers). It’s just hard to maintain a grip like that for a lot of cases. I like to shoot a lot of 556, so I need to reload a lot of it. After 100 or so, my grip wasn’t as good. If it catches, the mouth of the case can slice the palm of your hand. It’s not fun. Trust me, its not fun.

I then put on a leather glove. It worked, and I didn’t get cut. It was hard to pick up the cases with the glove though. I would have one gloved hand and one ungloved hand. I would pick up the cartridge with the bare hand, put it in the gloved hand, ream the primer pocket, and drop it in the “finished” bin. Luckily, there’s a better way.

Putting the cases in a wooden jig

I stumbled across the video below when I was looking into different ways to remove the military crimp from my 556 brass. I had been just using a drill, but I was holding the case in my hand. I had considered clamping the case in a vise, but that would have taken way too long to individually clamp all those pieces of brass, and I was worried about deforming the brass in a vise. But, because the 556 cartridge is tapered, being .3772 at the primer end and .3543 before the neck, if you’ve got a hole that is somewhere between that size, you’ll be fine, and friction will keep the cartridge from spinning.

I’ve tried just about every way to remove the crimp, and this way is the quickest. It’s probably not the most precise, but I’m not going for extreme precision out of my 556 loads anyways.

Tips- I would strongly recommend using a good hardwood for this. I initially tested the drill bit size on a scrap piece of pine, just as a proof of concept, but it was too soft, and I could actually push the cartridge much further through the pine. I then tried some oak and it worked perfectly. It looks like in the video he ended up using a bit that was 23/64.

Now, there are some electronic case prep tools. I think these tools are a bit more precise, but I don’t actually think they’re faster. If you’re going for extreme precision, you’ll want one of these electronic case prep stations. If you’re wanting to pump out some plinking ammo, using the drill and the board is a bit faster, and when you’re reaming thousands of cases, a bit faster here and there really adds up over time.

Electronic Case Prep Tools

This is a convenient all in one tool. There’s still the chance to slice your hand, but its more precise than a hand drill usually, and you have more control. Additionally you can take care of your case mouth, not just your primer pocket. This is the precision convenient tool. The most popular tool on the market is the electronic case prep tool by Lyman. It has all the tools that can spin, so you’re not changing out your bits. It’s got about 5x the amount of reviews as the next most popular product, and the reviews are raving about this one.

Lyman Case Prep Xpress

Frankford Arsenal Case Prep System

RCBS Brass Boss Case Prep Center

Which Method of Removing the Military Crimp Should You Pick?

I like the Frankford case prep tool for an all around option. I prefer using the board jig for my 223 and 556 military crimps though. I am generally mass producing my 556 and the board is just faster. In fact, I just knocked out 150 cases right before I wrote this. I’m using it. It’s fast.

Keep Learning

Prepping is an ongoing venture. Because of this, we recommend that you subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to keep prepping, emergency preparedness, and self reliance on your mind. We promise, we’re not spammy, which is why we only email you twice per month. We hope you think about being prepared more than twice per month, but our newsletter is a valuable resource to help you learn new things, and just to keep prepping on your mind. Right now you can also sign up for free. You can also follow our Facebook Page for regular articles and resources.

The post Best Way to Remove Military Crimp On 556 appeared first on Apocalyptic Prepping.