RCBS Hand Priming Tool - Manual (Page 6)

Photo #5 Photo #6
Photo #7 Photo #8
feed. Photo #6 shows the primer tray lid is in a position to stop the flow of primers. Photo #7
shows the primer tray is in an open position to allow primers into the primer feed.
The tool is now ready to be used. To prime cases, hold the Hand Priming Tool comfortably in your
hand, tilt the tool to cause a primer to enter the primer feed and insert an unprimed case into the
shell holder. See Photo #8. With steady, gentle pressure, slowly squeeze the handle until you
feel the primer seated to the bottom of the primer pocket. With a little practice you’ll soon appre-
ciate the sensitive “feel” of the Hand Priming Tool. Release the handle and remove the primed
case from the shell holder. Check the seated depth of the primer. If you encounter any unex-
pected resistance during seating, STOP! Discontinue priming until the problem is found and
corrected.
PRIMER SEATING DEPTH
During priming, check cases occasionally to be sure the primers are seated to the bottom of the primer
pocket. Correct seating depth is .003 inches to .005 inches below the case head. The base of a
correctly primed case will sit flat when placed on a level surface. If it rocks, the primer needs to be
seated deeper. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE attempt to reseat high primers in completed
cartridges (a case with the primer, powder and bullet in place). Pull the bullet, dump the powder and
then seat the primer to the correct depth.