Match Primers

[Buckskin]

I am having a tough time finding Federal 205M's around me.  Actually have only looked at Sportsmans Warehouse, but I used to be able to get them there(I am starting to wonder why they call themselves a warehouse). I have a load for my 204 that really likes them.  My question, is there a big difference in accuracy if I sub standard 205 primers?  I obviously want accurate tight little groups, but I'm no bench-shooter.

[Lloyd Smale]

No.  there the same primer just a little more care is taken to make sure of consistancy in the materials there made from. Ive never noticed any difference in accuarcy using them.

[Buckskin]

Thanks, that's what I figured.  I bought some, but wanted to hear it from someone else before taking the effort to load with them.

[Tom W.]

I've found a lot of difference in my 7mm remmag with the match primers and the standard primers. It isn't enough to NOT use them if you can't find the others, but then I get somewhat anal when I handload....

[beemanbeme]

I understand that match primers are made by the company's best personnel on their best machines but are basically no different from standard primers (except in uniformity).  That said, I have never used any Federal primers but have made blind test using other brands that leads me to believe there is no difference.  That means that there is no difference or that I am not a good enough shot to tell a difference.    

[Lloyd Smale]

FACT

I understand that match primers are made by the company's best personnel on their best machines but are basically no different from standard primers (except in uniformity).  That said, I have never used any Federal primers but have made blind test using other brands that leads me to believe there is no difference.  That means that there is no difference or that I am not a good enough shot to tell a difference.    

[Reed1911]

I've seen a very large difference in the consistency and accuracy of loads using match or bench-rest primers. Mainly in the smaller calibers, like the 204, enough that I will not load without them in certain cals and for certain guns. Now if you cannot hold an inch or less you likely will not see any difference but you may, and conversely you may be a bench rest shooter calling shots in the 2's and not see any difference. Like anything else in hand loading it is all up to the loader

[Buckskin]

I am very anal about my hand-loading, that is why I asked the question. And want my 204 to save as much paper as possible. I am curious as to why there isn't more of a price difference if the match primers are so superior. What is it like 20-25% more.  If they are that good they could easily get 2-3x for them.

[Tom W.]

Don't give them any ideas!