Primer pockets and pressure signs

[lilabner]

I just went through a batch of new bulk Winchester unprimed brass and primer pocket size varied considerably. I use a lee hand priming tool and found considerable variation in the effort required to seat primers in these new cases. I sorted out the looser pockets and will shoot them separately. They could create a false positive pressure sign if you were not aware they were large to begin with. For best accuracy, brass should be weighed and pockets measured and variations sorted out and used for plinking. There also could be variation in primer size. The more expensive brass is probably more consistent but I've never used the good stuff.

[BrushBuster]

I have had similar experiences with WINCHESTER brass. I have even gone to using different brands of primers that are slightly larger to compensate for the primer pockets that are too sloppy to hold my usual primer. Inconsistent primer pocket depth is also a problem from batch to batch, and protruding primers are a real concern especially with tubular magazine lever-guns.

Neck deformation has resulted in a number of throwaways (as much as 5%), and my .348 calibre doesn't have many supplier options.
Very unimpressive production standards from a company that rides heavily on its name.

Smarten up Winchester!!!! and yes I have written a letter of complaint.

[FURocious]

I've noticed this as well.  Winchester brass is a hot or miss on the primer pocket uniformity.  Winchester quality in general is in the gutter.