I'll clean the primer pockets, if I think of it, on magnum loads I'm building for accuracy, but if I don't think of it I don't worry about it. I might do some other brass once in a blue moon in front of the TV, if I have nothing else to do. I always chamfer and de-burr case mouths of all brass new to me, one time.

The way I shoot a handgun now, cleaning the primer pockets would be an exercise in futility! However, it might be a good thought for .357 rounds destined for rifle use.

It's not going to make a difference (IMHO) so go for it if you like...
I've got other ways to spend my time.

Bob

I always have and probably always will for several reasons. First of which is I have the time and consider reloading a restful process and try not to rush through it. I deprime with a Lee handloader and a depriming die while watching TV and do at least a thousand at a time. This is the first chance to handle the brass and give it a quick inspection for problems. Then it is cleaned. Second I clean the primer pockets and gives me another chance to inspect the brass after cleaning and to check the primer holes for stuck stuff and that the flash hole is not way out of kilter. Third I prime with a RCBS hand primer, yep, gives me one more time to check the brass for cracks, bulges, corrosion, etc. Now it's ready for the Dillon progressive or storage for the day it's to be loaded. Cleaning the primer pockets is sort of my speed bump when reloading.

It may be of interest that commercial reloaders never clean the primer pockets. They certainly deal with much greater volume production than any home or shooting range reloaders. What does that tell you?

I reload small amounts when I do. So I clean my primer pockets. I do not believe it is really necessary in handgun loads and if I loaded a lot [like our progressive users here] I would not do it. However since I load small quantities and have the time I do it simply because, "cleanliness is as cleanly does" or some such thing....

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Posted 18 June 2008 01:35 PM Hide Post
It's not going to make a difference (IMHO) so go for it if you like...
I've got other ways to spend my time.
Bob

Amen Brother! Sgt Preston USMC LLA

Primer pocket cleaning seems to be a “Fetish” for some while others could care less. Since most people shoot at spitting distances what difference would it make? Personally I’ve never noticed the difference at the 25yd line. At the 50yd line I’m no longer good enough to tell the difference.

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At the 50yd line I’m no longer good enough to tell the difference.

I resemble that remark!

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Originally posted by smith crazy:

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At the 50yd line I’m no longer good enough to tell the difference.

I resemble that remark!

Hanguns can be used at 50yds? I have trouble with a scoped rifle.

I see no point in doing it. They just get dirty again. I gave up doing laundry for the same reason!

If it's a cartridge I've shot black powder out of then yes. Any thing else would be a no.

I cleaned primer pockets when I started reloading 25 years ago. Don't do it anymore with my progressive press.....never had an issue.

I never clean primer pockets. I just can't see the need.

$6

I've tried it both ways. Never noticed a difference. Therfore I do not.