Lee Auto-Prime problem
The Lee Auto-Prime wears with the result that primers do not bottom out in the primer pockets. This not-bottoming is not readily apparent. The only way I’ve found to test this is to seat primers with the Auto-Prime, then seat the same primer/case in another Auto-Prime or other primer seater. Some shooters contend that primers that aren’t bottomed out cause some degree of inaccuracy.
A comparison of primer depth below the case head after being primed with an old and worn Auto-Prime and a new Auto-Prime was done. Insert a primer with the old tool, measure, push the primer in with the new tool, measure.
308 Win and 30BR
Old WLP .009”
New WLP .015”
Old WLR .005”
New WLR .007”
Old WSP .005”
New WSP .007”
30-30
Old WLP .005”
New WLP .011”
Old WLR .001”
New WLR .005”
In every case, the primer had not bottomed out. Does it matter?
When the lever of the Auto-Prime bottoms out, (see the picture), it’s time to buy a new “connecting rod” from Lee. Maybe a bit before.
joe b.