Berger Reloading Manual Doesn't List Primers?

[DrSteve]

I'm trying to work up a load for my 7mm-08 using Berger 140 grain VLD Hunting bullets. I found the load data in their Reloading Manual, but I can't find where they specify what primer they used for the testing. Maybe I'm looking in the wrong place. I understand that blindly substituting primers can lead to unsafe pressures. I looked at the FAQs on their website and can't find any discussion of what primers they used.

 

[Matt_C]

I have the manual and you are correct. They don't recommend primers. Help me understand (not being a smarty pants) but why would primers change your pressures?

 

[L.Sherm]

Just start out with a LR primer and work up with any normal work up.

 

[Jud96]

Just start out with a LR primer and work up with any normal work up.

This right here. The only time a primer is very important is if you're using primer X and you're running a load towards the max and then switch to primer Z and don't adjust your powder charge.

 

[DrSteve]

I have the manual and you are correct. They don't recommend primers. Help me understand (not being a smarty pants) but why would primers change your pressures?

Some of the loading manuals I've read say primer choice makes a big difference in pressures.

 

[L.Sherm]

When switching from LR to LR mag no doudt, there's is some difference from LR to LR just drop back .5 when switching and you will be fine

 

[DrSteve]

I just figured out that they don't specify brass either. LOL.

 

[MagnumManiac]

Even switching from a standard primer to a magnum primer may or may not change anything.
I switched from BR2 to Fed 210M with no change in pressure or velocity, this was tested in the Pressure Trace II.
Switching from a WLRM to Fed 215 reduced pressure by 8,000psi.
Over the Pressure Trace, WLR/WLRM are the hottest primers I have tested to date.
Rem primers are the weakest, running at least 10,000psi less than their counterparts by CCI, Federal or Winchester.

Cheers.

 

[CBH Australia]

I guess some like to see all the specs that made up a load. Some keep better records and some would mix cases and just load.
The variables matter but perhaps more so for precision shooters than most hunters.