Has anyone noted any real differences in the accuracy of their hunting loads when changing primers? I have always used CCI 200 (large rifle) primers in my hunting loads. A buddy just gave me 900 Winchester WLR (large rifle) primers. If I go from CCI to Winchester primers would I see a significant enough difference in my loads that I would need to redevelop them?

Any time you change ANY component (or even a lot number) you should re-work your loads.

I have generally gotten the best average accuracy from my ammo when it is loaded with Federal primers. However, I have not detected enough of a difference in accuracy between loads using CCI's and Federals to be of any concern in big game hunting (deer & larger). Small varmints, perhaps.



But as Steve says, any time you change any component, prudence dictates re-developing your load, and this is MANDATORY if you are loading anywhere near the maximum level for your particular gun!

In my experience Winchester primers seem to have a somewhat "softer" cup than CCI which could make you think that the primer change has raised pressure to unacceptably high levels which might not be the case. I have not noticed a lot of change in accuracy unless you are talking about a .17 I had a .17 Rem. that was plumb fussy about primers and would only shoot well with Remington 7 1/2s. Go figure.

It can. Once I work up a good load I'll try & tweek it by changing primers. Sometimes it works, sometimes not. I do find a bit more concistancy in the match primers. Only your rifle can tell you.