Ever wondered how shooters get their cartridges ready for the next shot? It’s a careful process called reloading, and a key step is putting in the tiny primer. This little piece is super important; it starts the whole firing sequence! But choosing the right tool to do this job can feel like a puzzle.
There are so many different priming tools out there, and it’s tough to know which one is best for you. Some are fast, some are precise, and they all have different prices. It can be confusing to figure out what features matter most. You want a tool that makes your reloading easy and safe, not one that causes more problems.
Don’t worry! We’re here to help you sort through the choices. By reading on, you’ll learn all about the different types of priming tools. We’ll explain what makes them work and how to pick the one that fits your needs. Get ready to become a reloading pro!
Our Top 5 Priming Tool For Reloading Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Lee Precision 90700 | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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RCBS 90201 Universal Hand Priming Tool | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Lee Precision 90230 New Auto Prime Hand Priming Tool | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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RCBS 90200 Hand Priming Tool | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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RCBS 9460 Auto Priming Tool | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Priming Tool For Reloading Detailed Reviews
1. Lee Precision 90700
Rating: 9.3/10
The Lee Precision 90700 Auto Bench Priming Tool makes priming your cartridges much easier. This tool sits on your workbench. It helps you put primers into your cartridge cases quickly and safely. You can use primers from any brand with this tool. It’s designed to be comfortable to use for a long time.
What We Like:
- The triangular tray is super handy. It fits primer boxes from all the different brands you might have.
- Its ergonomic design feels good in your hand. This means less strain when you’re working on a lot of cartridges.
- It comes with both large and small primer trays. This makes it versatile for different types of cartridges.
- It’s a stable tool that stays put on your bench. This helps prevent mistakes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sometimes, the primer feed can be a little finicky. A small adjustment might be needed.
- While it accepts all primer boxes, you still need to load them into the tray manually.
For reloaders who want a reliable and user-friendly priming solution, the Lee Precision 90700 is a solid choice. It simplifies a crucial step in reloading.
2. RCBS 90201 Universal Hand Priming Tool
Rating: 8.8/10
The RCBS 90201 Universal Hand Priming Tool in green is a handy gadget for anyone who reloads their own ammunition. It makes putting primers into cases much easier. This tool works with almost any kind of case you might have, from small pistol rounds to larger rifle rounds.
What We Like:
- It’s a universal tool, meaning it fits many different case sizes, from .32 ACP all the way up to .45-70 Government.
- It comes with all the parts you need to seat both large and small primers for rifles and pistols.
- The primer tray is special. It holds your primers so they are ready to go and works with any brand of primer packaging.
- It has a safety feature, a special gate, that keeps the primers you are using separate from the extra ones. This makes it much safer and helps stop accidents.
- This tool combines the best parts of other RCBS hand priming tools into one easy-to-use package.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s universal, some users might find the initial setup for very specific or unusual case types takes a little practice.
- The green color, while distinctive, might not match everyone’s reloading bench aesthetic.
This RCBS Universal Hand Priming Tool is a solid choice for reloaders. It offers great versatility and important safety features, making the priming process more efficient and secure.
3. Lee Precision 90230 New Auto Prime Hand Priming Tool
Rating: 8.6/10
The Lee Precision 90230 New Auto Prime Hand Priming Tool is a handy gadget for anyone who loads their own ammunition. It’s a hand-held tool that makes putting primers into cartridge cases much easier. This tool is designed to work with all kinds of primers from different brands, so you don’t have to worry about it not fitting. It uses Lee Auto Prime shell holders, which are known for their reliability.
What We Like:
- It’s very easy to use, even for beginners.
- The tool works with primers from any brand, which is super convenient.
- It’s built to last, so you can count on it for many reloading projects.
- The price is very reasonable, making it accessible for many reloaders.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sometimes, finding this tool can be a bit tricky because it’s so popular.
- While it works with all primer brands, some users might find the feel slightly different compared to tools made specifically for one brand.
This hand priming tool simplifies a crucial step in reloading. It’s a solid choice for reloaders looking for a user-friendly and versatile priming solution.
4. RCBS 90200 Hand Priming Tool
Rating: 9.3/10
The RCBS 90200 Hand Priming Tool, Blend is a must-have for any reloader who wants to seat primers quickly and safely. This tool is built with the highest quality materials, so it will last for many reloading sessions. It fits right in your hand, making it super easy to use anywhere. You can trust this tool to do a great job every time.
What We Like:
- It’s made from really strong, top-notch materials.
- You can seat primers super fast and without worry.
- It comes with both large and small primer plugs, so it works for most ammo.
- A special safety feature keeps you away from primer tray explosions.
- Its small size means you can take it anywhere.
- Putting the primer tray in is safe; you don’t touch the primers.
- It uses the same shell holders as your RCBS press (if it’s from 1980 or later).
What Could Be Improved:
- For beginners, the initial setup might take a little getting used to.
- While it’s portable, some might prefer a bench-mounted tool for very high volume reloading.
The RCBS 90200 Hand Priming Tool, Blend offers a fantastic balance of speed, safety, and portability. It’s a reliable tool that makes a tedious job much easier.
5. RCBS 9460 Auto Priming Tool
Rating: 8.6/10
The RCBS 9460 Auto Priming Tool in green is a handy tool for reloaders. It makes putting primers into cases faster and more accurate. This tool is built with good materials by RCBS, a company known for quality reloading gear.
What We Like:
- Fast and Accurate: The special single-stage lever system helps you seat primers quickly and precisely.
- Built to Last: Made from strong metal, this tool is designed for durability.
- Everything You Need: It comes with two primer rod assemblies and two primer feed tubes, so you’re ready to go.
- RCBS Quality: You can trust the reliability and performance that comes with the RCBS name.
- Easy to Handle: While not super light, its 2.25-pound weight feels solid and manageable during use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Weight: At 2.25 pounds, some users might find it a bit heavier than expected for a priming tool.
- Learning Curve: While generally easy, mastering the lever system for perfect primer seating might take a little practice for beginners.
For reloaders seeking efficiency and precision, the RCBS 9460 Auto Priming Tool offers a dependable solution. Its robust construction and included accessories make it a valuable addition to your reloading bench.
Choosing the Right Priming Tool for Your Reloading Needs
Reloading ammunition can save you money and give you more control over your cartridges. A crucial part of this process is priming, which involves inserting the primer into the cartridge case. The right priming tool makes this task easier and safer. This guide will help you pick the best one.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you shop for a priming tool, keep these important features in mind:
- Ease of Use: A good tool should be simple to operate. You shouldn’t need a manual to figure it out. It should feel comfortable in your hand.
- Primer Seating Depth Control: This is very important. The primer needs to sit at just the right depth. Too deep or too shallow can cause problems. Look for a tool that lets you adjust this easily.
- Primer Tray Design: Some tools have trays that hold multiple primers. This speeds up the process. Others seat one primer at a time. Consider what works best for your workflow.
- Durability: Reloading tools can get a lot of use. You want something built to last. Metal parts are usually better than plastic ones.
- Safety Features: Primers can be sensitive. A good tool should have features that prevent accidental ignition.
Important Materials
The materials used in a priming tool affect its strength and lifespan.
- Steel: Many high-quality priming tools use steel for their main components. Steel is strong and durable. It holds up well to repeated use.
- Aluminum: Some parts might be made of aluminum. It is lighter than steel but still strong.
- High-Strength Plastics: While metal is often preferred, some tools use tough plastics for handles or primer trays. Good quality plastic can be very durable.
What Makes a Tool Great (or Not So Great)?
Several factors influence the quality of a priming tool.
- Precision Machining: When parts are made precisely, the tool works better. This leads to consistent primer seating.
- Ergonomics: How the tool feels in your hand matters. A comfortable grip reduces fatigue during long reloading sessions.
- Adjustability: Tools that allow fine adjustments for primer seating depth are generally of higher quality.
- Simple Design: Complex tools can break more easily. A straightforward design often means more reliability.
- Cheap Materials: Tools made with flimsy plastic or low-grade metal will not last long. They might also be less accurate.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a priming tool is a hands-on experience.
- Beginners: For those new to reloading, an easy-to-use tool with clear instructions is best. A tool that makes primer seating foolproof is a good starting point.
- Experienced Reloaders: More experienced reloaders might want tools with advanced features. They might prioritize speed and fine-tuning capabilities.
- Bench Tools vs. Handheld Tools: Priming tools come in two main types. Bench tools mount to a workbench and offer stability. Handheld tools are portable and can be used anywhere. Your reloading setup will help you decide.
- Volume Reloading: If you reload many rounds at once, a tool that handles primers in bulk or allows for quick, repetitive seating will save you time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main purpose of a priming tool?
A: Its main purpose is to safely and accurately seat primers into cartridge cases during the reloading process.
Q: Are priming tools difficult to use?
A: Most modern priming tools are designed for ease of use. However, some require more practice than others.
Q: How do I know if the primer is seated correctly?
A: A good priming tool will have a mechanism to ensure consistent seating depth. You can also visually inspect the primer to see if it’s flush with the case head.
Q: Can I use any priming tool with any caliber of cartridge?
A: No, priming tools are often caliber-specific or require adapters for different case head sizes (small pistol, large pistol, small rifle, large rifle).
Q: What are the different types of priming tools?
A: The main types are bench-mounted priming tools and handheld priming tools.
Q: Why is primer seating depth so important?
A: Incorrect seating depth can lead to misfires or slam-fires, which are dangerous.
Q: How often should I clean my priming tool?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your priming tool regularly, especially after heavy use, to remove powder residue and ensure smooth operation.
Q: What are the safety risks associated with priming?
A: The primary risk is accidental primer ignition. Always follow safety guidelines and handle primers with care.
Q: Can a priming tool help me reload faster?
A: Yes, especially tools with primer trays that hold multiple primers or those designed for efficient, repetitive action.
Q: Where can I buy a good priming tool?
A: You can find them at sporting goods stores, online retailers specializing in reloading equipment, and gun shows.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.