Best hand priming tool

However, the ergonomics do not only span the handle because even the mounting system plays a big role. A hand primer that allows only a single or a few primers to be mounted at a time is inferior to those with dedicated trays for primers. Safety measures in using an ergonomic hand priming tool should also be considered, especially for those with dedicated trays. A tool without a safety gate in this area can cause more damage when tray detonation occurs, further resulting in a chain reaction of combustion within the tray.

Budget priming devices have their drawbacks, but some competitive priming equipment are safe and affordable for those on a tight budget.

An example is the Lee Precision — Auto Prime XR, which sacrifices the ergonomics by a bit, but still gets the job done. Competing within the same segment is the Zee Universal Priming Tool. Yes, but it is bearable. Hand fatigue is natural when using hand priming tools, especially when you have reloaded a few hundred cases.

Some ergonomic devices may provide better comfort and slow down the onset of fatigue, but no matter how perfectly seated your hand is, your hand will feel fatigued eventually.

Old priming tools work and can still be used to reload shells with primers. Many people claim that the old version of the Lee Auto Prime has been one of the best priming tools for reloading, and some people claim that they have been using their tools for up to 40 years before it breaks.

Yes, you may use any shell holder for your hand priming tool as long as it is compatible. The downside of using a universal shell holder is that the speed of priming is compromised. Since the shell plates cater to all ammunition, removing the ammo makes the process slower. After spending more than 24 hours of research, our choice for the best hand priming tool is the Sinclair International — Sinclair Priming Tool because it offers top-notch durability and convenience.

Built with stainless steel and aluminum, you can expect this to last longer than average hand primers. You can surely avoid jitters when the shells are fixed on the plate, and you can be assured of accurate primer seating. If you value safety and accuracy, then we highly recommend the Sinclair model. Your email address will not be published. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. At Lunde Studio , our primary goal is to provide a dedicated resource for all gun enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Lunde Studio is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission from Amazon at no extra cost to you. Learn more. Alfred Mendoza September 29, Sinclair International - Sinclair Priming Tool.

Affordable Ergonomic and easy to use Appealing stainless steel finish Twist-and-lock method keeps the cartridge fixed Different shell holders are sold. Affordable Easy to use Comes with a primer tray Safe from detonation and chain reactions Option for shell holders.

Large automatic priming system Separate primer operation from tray Option for shell holders Made with durable cast metal Shell holders can be reused. Sinclair International - Sinclair Priming Tool 1. Lee Precision Ergo-Prime 1.

Hornady - Handheld Priming Tool 1. Why we picked it: Aside from the cast metal build of this hand primer, it is also ergonomic. Lee Precision Ergo-Prime. Why we picked it: The ergo-prime name of this priming tool is accurate as this hand primer is the most ergonomic on the list. Ergonomic Has automatic priming system Separate primer operation from primer tray Easy to use Affordable. Why we picked it: This universal hand priming tool is best for those looking for versatility but wants to save a few bucks.

A downside of this product may be the fact that the process may be slower since you have to remove every cartridge by hand once it is primed. Other models simply let go of the case for an easier reload. After priming, the universal shell holder may tighten the grip, making the removal process slower. There are a few models that already include all the shell holders necessary to begin priming.

You should make sure you get a priming tool with these included, or you will have to buy each of them separately. It is no big deal since these are not expensive, but it may be difficult to find some specific sizes. If you are not a fan of this, you can also look for a priming unit with a universal shell holder. Usually, when you are hand priming a case with a specific shell holder, you can work with a tray or bucket under the primer, so you just have to set the cartridge on the primer, squeeze, release the handle and watch the primed case fall onto the bucket.

But with a universal shell holder, you cannot do this since you get to remove each case by hand each time you prime it. If you like to practice on a shooting range with your rounds, you may be priming hundreds of cases at a time. Because of this, you would like a comfortable and fast primer.

The best hand primers come with an ergonomic handle. You will surely be priming at least a few hundred cases at the time, and your hand will surely cramp up after a while. An ergonomic handle helps you to get a better grip on the tool, reducing the possibility of getting cramps or getting tired because of repeated action.

Also, an ergonomic handle can be useful for more precise priming. Most models do not have a predetermined seating depth, so you will have to feel how deep you want the primer to be set. The better the handle, the more sensitive will it be. This means that you will have less crushed primers to deal with. This may be one of the most important aspects of a hand primer. A single detonated primer can lead to a chain reaction where all the primers o the supply will detonate as well. Most hand primers nowadays come with a safety gate to separate the primer that is being primed of the rest of the unused primers.

You are working with deadly gunpowder. This means that a mistake where you accidentally detonate a single round on a hand primer can cause severe damage. Hand primers are supposed to work specifically as you need them to, but you have to make sure everything is in place and safely secured when using the primer.

Because of the continuous danger you are in when priming, here are a few safety precautions you want to tan into account when working with hand primers. Hearing protection: Detonated primers can make a deafening sound, so you should make sure you have the appropriate hearing protection. Eye protection: You should always have your eyes protected since a minor error can make primer pieces to blow out of the hand priming tool. Proper primer storage: Every primer should be inside their original package when you are not using them.

Also, make sure your store this package in a dry place away from any heat sources. No, if the primers do not have a universal shell holder, you will have to get the shell holders specific to the brand of the tool. Overall both tools get the job done. It mostly depends on your comfortability. If you want to be able to prime cases everywhere, the portable hand primer is a safe bet obviously.

On the other hand, mounted hand primers provide increased stability, apart from the fact that the hand primer toll will be right beside your reloading press.

There are certain models in which you can set the desired seating depth. It means that you will never crush a primer again. If by any chance you have a hand primer in which you cannot set any seating depth you will have to feel for yourself. Once you feel the primer set you will have to release. Because of this, many primers will surely be at a different depth than others. If the press is the same brand as the hand primer you should be able to use the same shell holder.

Sometimes paying a little bit more for greater quality is a good decision, especially when purchasing something you plan to use for a long time. However, we believe that the Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seating Tool is the best hand priming unit here. There is no way you crush the primers, and thanks to the configurable dial that you can set to desired seating depths. This means that each primer on each case will be set at the same depth as all the other primers.

There are 12 shell holders included, one for each one of the most popular cartridge sizes. Also, you can easily store all these holders and the priming tool inside the storage case that is already included when you purchase this model. The Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Hand Primer will ensure you do not even overwhelm the seat and crush the primer afterward.

It includes a dial that computes the seat depth to 1,th of an inch at a moment with a total adjustment range from 50 thousandths. When you have the seat depth set, you can squeeze the grip as tight as you like and, also with a positive hard stop, the primer may never sit greater depth than the depth set.

The good thing about this primer is that it gets a universal shell plate that allows you to produce a wide range of shells with no need to buy different shell holders. This is very satisfying. The safety gate separates the primer activity from its primer supply in order to minimize the risk of detonation of the tray.

This safety mechanism is what every hand primer must-have. Looking to move on, the tray that comes with it can hold a few primers securely at a time. It has accessories for large and small rifles or pistol premier. People can fixed this to either alternative in just a few mins. People also need to adjust the primer tube and the primer rod assemblies, based on the size of the primer.

People can fill up the primer tubes with a hundred primers in one go. Other end of the tube has a holding clip. This retains the primer in and not falling out until you place the tube on the automatic feed primer arm. All these best hand primers for reloading are worth the purchase, these hands priming tools work incredibly well.