Changing primer on load and impact on accuracy?

[Hinky]

I've been reloading for a while now and have a good hand load developed for hunting.

Way back when I stocked up on Federal primers and have been using since.

I've put off reloading for a while because I was out of primers and my LGS didn't have any Federal in stock. I was holding off to keep things consistent but I don't want to wait any more.

Should changing to another primer affect my groups?

If it's a fraction of an inch at 100 then I don't really care, but if it's really significant I don't want to have to do all the load testing again for the same of new primers only.

Thanks for feedbck.

[chacka]

Short answer - Yes.

Longer answer - how much depends entirely on your load and rifle.

If you're not too fussy it could be fine, though I'd be wary of loading too many cartridges without testing first.

[on_one_wheel]

If you want consistancy then do what a scientist would do, be scientific.

[SendIt]

If you've already got a good load with Federal primers, I think you're asking for trouble switching without load testing.

Can't be that hard to track down Federal primers, they're pretty run of the mill.

I'd call around and if need be drive a bit further than usual, and find somewhere to buy your regular primers.

[Brute]

If you've already got a good load with Federal primers, I think you're asking for trouble switching without load testing.

Yeah.

You might get away with a different primer, or it might completely ruin your load.

Do the legwork to find some elsewhere or be prepared for another days testing IMO.

[Hardcast]

Hey Hinky, the closest gunshop to me told me recently that there was no way I could possibly get Federal, .22 ammo, tried somewhere else and bought a heap.
just sayin.

If Fishers, RR, and Adelaide gunshop haven't got them try S.A.Rifle asoc out at Wingfield.

[rigatoni]

Hey Hinky, the closest gunshop to me told me recently that there was no way I could possibly get Federal, .22 ammo, tried somewhere else and bought a heap.

Yeah you gotta shop around in this industry.

I have 3 'regular' stores because it's the only way I can maintain a steady supply.

Sticking to one always leaves you waiting for weeks/months.

[Hinky]

If Fishers, RR, and Adelaide gunshop haven't got them try S.A. Rifle asoc out at Wingfield.

Cheers HC, I will call around.