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You should be interested in guns and shooting as a hobby. It is rewarding to empty and prime empty shells. You have complete control over your business, and it can save you money in the long term.
Recycling shells are good for the environment and your health. You should only use the most powerful and best hand priming tool to reload the ammunition.
This saves money and gives you complete control over the quality. There are so many hand priming tools on the market, making it difficult to choose the best one.
This post will cover all aspects of hand priming tools. A thorough understanding of hand priming tools will ensure a pleasant experience every time you prime your cartridges.
Page Contents
- Top Five Best Hand Priming Tools for reloading
- 1. Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Hand Primer Seating Tool – best universal hand priming tool
- Pros & Cons
- 2. RCBS 90201 Universal Hand Priming Tool
- Pros & Cons
- 3. RCBS 90200 hand priming tool: forget about primer tray detonation!
- The main pros and cons of RCBS 90200 Hand Priming Tool
- Pros & Cons
- 4. Lyman Products E ZEE Universal Priming Tool
- Pros & Cons
- 5. Lee Precision Auto Bench Prime
- Pros & Cons
- 6. Best Durable Hand Priming Tool: RCBS 9460 Auto Priming Tool
- Pros & Cons
- Things To Consider Before Buying A best Hand Priming Tool
- Frequently Asked Questions
Top Five Best Hand Priming Tools for reloading
Last update on 2021-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat Hand Primer Seating Tool – best universal hand priming tool
- SPECS: Comes with 12 shell holders to cover the most popular cases and the self-righting primer tray holds 100+ primers
- VERSATILITY: Works with both small and large primers and the case includes 3 extra posts so you can store custom or rare collets in the same place
- EASE OF USE: A quick thumb release system allows you to switch from small to large primers easily and a hard stop so you can never over crush a primer
- INNOVATIVE: Features an adjustable seating system that helps prevent “proud” primers or crushing primers into cases
- DURABLE: Constructed of a heavy-duty die-cast zinc with steel internal components. The entire system stores in a robust injection molded case
Last update on 2021-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This Frankford Arsenal Platinum priming unit includes 12 shell holders to the 12 most well-known calibers. These 12 shell holders may be saved in the storage case together with the universal priming tool for easier access for a single stage. This situation is very good as it’s produced of durable materials to make sure your Perfect Seat Hand Primer and the holders are constantly protected by Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series perfect seat hand tool.
The best hand priming tool framework is made of die-cast zinc, while the internal components are made from steel. The primer supply tray can hold as much as some best hand priming tools for reloading in precisely the exact same moment. Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series perfect seat hand tool works flawlessly with both little and large 100 primers. What’s more, it’s easy to change between them thanks to this thumb release. Additionally, the primer tray has ridges on the interior, hence the best hand priming tool is constantly facing the ideal direction.
Apart from the occasional hand primer moving the incorrect way, clients haven’t experienced any huge issues with this specific priming unit. You do not need to squeeze the good priming tool till it seems right due to this dial. And due to this, every single primer (Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series perfect seat, too) will probably be in precisely the same depth in each circumstance. And it uses the spring-loaded handle, too.
Video about best hand priming tool:
2. RCBS 90201 Universal Hand Priming Tool
- Universal hand priming tool
- Includes accessories to seat large and small rifle or pistol primers
- The removable primer tray orients your primers for use and will fit any manufacturers' primer packaging
- Combines features found on our other two hand priming tools into one convenient package
- The universal shell holder will accept cases from .32 ACP to .45-70 Government
Last update on 2021-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The 2 RCBS 90201 universal hand priming tool is one of our favorites due to its versatility. When you buy the hand primer, RCBS 90201 universal hand priming tool comes with the handle/body, the primer tray, and two prime holders in black and white. The black prime holder is for black primes and the white prime holder is for small primes.
They really live up to the universal priming tool. 2 RCBS 90201 universal hand priming tool also has a slightly different way of switching between big and small primers and a much simpler way of using them in the long run.
The main pros:
- No standard shell holders needed for hand priming tool RCBS! We just love the jaw that simply locks whatever brass you’re pushing onto the holder that comes with the handle. This completely eliminates the need for buying different 2 RCBS shell holders. Priming tool RCBS 90201 holds .32 ACP to .45-70 Government
- A patented safety gate in the RCBS hand priming tool will isolate primers in the primer tray from the one in the seat. A safety gate prevents explosions from happening.
- Durable material of internal components of hand priming tool RCBS: The plastic parts of the primer supply tray are made of high-quality material and the handle is made of heavy-duty steel.
- A safe, quick, and easy process and operation from the primer as you are not worried about multiple primers sliding into the seat or any detonation happening so long as you do it gently. It also easily takes the new auto prime hand priming tool off if you suddenly need to snug in some primers that were not seated properly.
The main con:
- The complicated setup priming process and operation from the primer of the new auto prime hand priming tool. When you need to switch with a black or white new auto prime hand priming tool, you need to unscrew a bunch of things and reattach them again (primer tube, feed tubes, etc.). Using the wrong primer holder can cause misfit primers and in a worst-case scenario, tray detonation.
3. RCBS 90200 hand priming tool: forget about primer tray detonation!
- Made of The highest quality materials
- Hand priming tool
- Seats primers quickly and safely
- Seats primers quickly and safely; includes large and small primer plugs
- Safety mechanism separates the seating operation from the primer supply, virtually eliminating the possibility of tray detonation
Last update on 2021-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The RCBS 90200 hand priming tool is the predecessor of the 90201 universal hand priming tool. Everything about the RCBS 90200 hand priming tool is the same, except that it still requires shell holders and they have to be the same RCBS shell holders (post-1980) as hand priming tool RCBS presses. Apart from that, it’s still the same design, same black and white prime holders at a cheaper price for RCBS 90200 hand priming tool.
The main pros and cons of RCBS 90200 Hand Priming Tool
The main pros:
- A patented safety gate will isolate the RCBS 90200 hand priming tool in the primer tray from the one in the seat, preventing tray detonation from happening.
- Durable material: The plastic parts of the tray are made of high-quality material and the handle is made of heavy-duty steel. Therefore, with the RCBS 90200 hand priming tool you can safely use pre-primed shells.
- A safe, quick, and easy process as you are not worried about multiple primers sliding into the seat or any explosion happening so long as you do it gently. It also easily takes the RCBS 90200 hand priming tool off if you suddenly need to snug in some primers that were not seated properly.
The main con:
- Requires shell holders, as opposed to the Universal hand priming tool, and the shell holders, are brand specific to RCBS only. Also, the same complicated setup reloading process just to switch the primer size.
4. Lyman Products E ZEE Universal Priming Tool
- System works with Standard shell holders
- Allows instant changeover between primer sizes
- Includes two primer trays that incorporate their own built-in large or small primer punch assembly
- No small parts to fuss with or lose
- Each Tray has a built-in shut-off gate to keep primers in place during change-over
Last update on 2021-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lyman new auto prime hand priming tool E ZEE comes with a handle and two primer trays for different sizes of primers. All you need to do is assemble the handle with the primer tray and a shell holder. You begin with filling the tray with the primers that you will be seated with, close the lid, and remember to shut the gate to prevent E ZEE primers from flowing out. You can also do a hard stop halfway and leave the primers there to be worked with later.
Next, you assemble that to the handle, place a shell holder on top and lock it with another piece that works as a cap.
The main pros:
- Reliable: Lyman products have designed with sleek, matte black color has quite a big size but is not too overbearing. E ZEE universal priming tool easily snugs into your hand
- The ergonomic design makes the E ZEE universal priming tool easy for you to press the primer without exerting too much energy and comfortably.
- Durable material: The plastic lid of the primer tray is made of high-quality material and the handle is made of heavy-duty steel.
- Universal shell holder: E ZEE is one of the best hand priming tools for reloading that work with universal shell holder and not brand specific!
- No fussing with small parts that happen with many other best hand priming tools and some Lyman products, too.
The main con:
- It may not be much of a drawback of the E ZEE universal priming tool, but to prevent the hand priming tool from overloading the seat, you need to tip it back and forth while working with it. It’s quite the work, but once you’re used to it, it’s not much of a problem and is a safe for Lyman products method instead.
5. Lee Precision Auto Bench Prime
- Triangular Tray that accept all brand of primer boxes
- Ergonomic design
- Large and small primer trays
Last update on 2021-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Most Prime Lee Precision reloading presses include a priming unit, but this item is made to be a complete priming channel on your workbench. This Lee Precision hand priming tool may be procured in your workbench for greater stability, making the priming process smoother and more exact.
There aren’t any shell holders included on the Lee Precision unit, but it is going to work flawlessly with Lee Precision shell holders. It’s not difficult to use, and after it’s mounted and lubricated it is possible to start priming within minutes. You simply have to decide on the ideal assembly, slide the shell holder set up, place the primer onto the holder, and also proceed to the grip before the Lee Precision primer is put.
The primer tray may be put in 3 distinct places, open, secured, and feed. The open place enables you to load the menu using fresh Lee Precision primers. The hocked place sets the tray on the Lee Precision primer however will not permit any primers to go in the holder (Basically this is the way you keep it).
You’ll have to get accustomed to the primer tray. Additionally, the primer pocket where the shell holders proceed isn’t tight onto the holder. This usually means that the shell holder can drop sometimes.
6. Best Durable Hand Priming Tool: RCBS 9460 Auto Priming Tool
- RCBS 9460 auto priming tool
- Item weighs 2.25 pounds
- Manufactured by RCBS
- material type : metal
- Fast and accurate due to a unique single-stage lever system
Last update on 2021-07-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As you are able to use the goods within this manual for quite a while, hand priming tool RCBS got our focus as the most lasting alternative. RCBS 9460 auto priming tool combines reliable metallic materials with precision, comfort, and ease of use to offer you among the very best hand primers out there.
We also love the automation capability which makes the entire priming process a whole lot more flexible and quicker. You may save time by skipping priming processes for example ensuring that the primer is set properly. You could also quickly reload the priming tool in 1 minute.
Besides the hand priming tool RCBS`s relaxation, we found it really versatile because of its compatibility with distinct shell holders. But RCBS 9460 auto priming tool is crucial to be certain the design and make of these shell holders are much like the RCBS one before attempting to attach them.
It could take a while before you learn how to mount the shell holders correctly so we suggest that you use the first cases in the manufacturer.
This right-hand priming tool is great for rifles and pistols instances and will provide you accurate and fast results without additional work. As you might need to pay more dollars for this tasteful hand priming tool RCBS, the value you get from it’s unmatched.
Things To Consider Before Buying A best Hand Priming Tool
Preferences
There are two ways of priming and one of them is mentioned here, which is using a hand priming tool. The other method is by using a bench primer, which needs to be installed on the bench. Before you purchase any best hand priming tool or bench mount priming tool, ensure to know not just the pros, but also the cons of each product. For example, you are stuck to the press if you use a bench primer.
Material
Heavy-duty steel is required because you are not just priming 100 or 200 primes, but up to tens of thousands in some cases. You need a tool that is reliable and will maintain the same quality even after thousands of runs.
Shell holder
What kind of shell holder works with the primer and how many shell holders come with it? What brass works with the shell holder that is provided if any is provided? Make sure to check these things before purchasing.
Additional features
In such a simple tool, there might not be much to add, but one feature that we think is worth considering is Frankford’s small adjustment that allows you to decide how deep you want the primer in. Another would be a simple switch between big and small primers.
Safety measures
Because you are pushing primers into brass, a mechanism that kind of mimics a gun. It’s not that dangerous with an empty brass, but in the case that you still have 100 primes in the primer tray, you want your large and small primers to have a separator.
Design
The layout is vital, particularly if this is something that you plan to use for a lengthy time period. Some are far comfier to hold, which makes the procedure for using the good hand priming tool much simpler.
Caliber Sizes
The kinds of cartridges and also the dimensions of quality are essential characteristics as well. You need one that will probably deal with a great number of cartridges, but in the event that you just use a couple of kinds then finding one special to your needs is a better choice.
Portability
There are choices out there that connect to a workbench, which makes them simple to use. Nevertheless, these choices aren’t really mobile. You might want a hand primer that lets you have the ability to take it with you.
Comfort And Ease Of Use
A complex hand primer will provide you a difficult time. Be certain that you receive a hand priming tool that you’re comfortable using for an elongated period. The handgrip should also be convenient to do hard to stop your hands from going numb and hand fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
We can also answer single-stage lever systems, hand fatigue, primer pocket, and many other questions.
How do I make sure that I don’t crush any primers?
There are certain models in which you’ll be able to set the desired seating depth. It usually means you will never crush a primer again.
If by any chance you have a hand primer in which you cannot place any primer seating depth you’ll have to feel on your own. As soon as you feel the primer set you’ll need to release it and thumb release, too. As a result of this, many primers will certainly be at a different seating depth than others.
Is there any difference between mounted hand primers and portable hand primers?
Overall both tools get the job done. It mostly depends upon your comfortability. If you want in order to prime cases everywhere, the mobile hand primer is a safe bet (obviously).
On the other hand, mounted hand primers offer greater stability, apart from the fact that the hand primer toll will probably be directly beside your reloading press.
Do all shell holders fit a hand priming tool?
Regrettably, the answer to this is not any. What you are likely to discover is there are some tools that use specific shell holders unique about that brand. While these are generally not overly pricey, they are an extra purchase you’ll need to make.
Should I choose an auto bench or a portable priming tool?
The truth is your choices related to whether you want something that you may take with you or something you intend to utilize more around your residence. The auto bench tool models are much better if you’re looking for increased durability, only because they require less of a jostling. They’re installed in a certain place, meaning that they are not as susceptible to damage.
What are the benefits of having a hand priming tool?
The benefit of this instrument is that it gets the reloading set up a whole lot simpler. This instrument helps to prime the shell casing in order that the cartridges prepared for firing. It is true that some reloading presses come with primers, but in my experience, these are not easy to use. You will find a lot more productivity out of purchasing a right-hand priming tool since they are easy to use and you only get better at using them over time. You can take it everywhere with you and this is the reason why it is a valuable tool to have.
Lee’s new hand priming tool looks like an improvement over some of their older tools (which I own a couple of and am a fan of for the most part since 2009). After watching this and your Lee Auto Bench Prime video, I am going to try to order one of Lee’s retrofit kits for my Lee Ergo Hand Priming tool (it has broken tray lid and this looks like a more durable design). Again, learning a lot from these videos so your work is appreciated.
Hello. And what about your experience? Which is the best best hand priming tool?
How is the Sharps project going and do you prefer one brand of reloader over another I am new to the AR world and I know that eventually I will have to start reloading to keep ammo cost down plus I really want to build a 25-45 sharps rifle I really enjoy your videos thanks for all the free education
Have you tried using any tool in this review? What are your impressions? Maybe you have the best primer seater?
Maybe I have to try holding it at a similar angle to you but mine did not work near as nicely as yours. About 1/5 the time no primer falls down, maybe 1/10 a primer falls sideways and when I finished priming 25 cases I noticed 2 of them actually managed to 180 flip and were in backwards, and yes, I made sure all were facing the correct direction initially.
Yeah, after thinking about it I bet that is why it worked well for you. I held it more perpendicular to the ground, if I angle it more the primers in theory should fall less violently and be less likely to change orientation.
** EDIT ** If you hold this contraption such that the feed tube makes a ~45 degree angle with the ground it works fairly well. I only did 25 cases but all primers seated perfectly. I’ll update if it seems this data set was too small and things don’t work well after all.
I’m glad yours works, mine is a piece of junk. the chamber
the primers drop in for seating are way too big, primers drop in sideways, backward, or jam up in the chute, it’s the only piece of Lee equipment I’ve ever had an issue with, and I’ve used nothing else since the 80’s.t
what primers were you using? some one in another vid said that cci says not to use their primers in the Lee hand primer…
My grandfather taught me to work with a reboot. I like this job. I have been doing this for more than 15 years. I’ve tried many tools, but I think the best hand primer is RCBS 90200.
Is Frankford Arsenal Perfect Seat the best hand priming tool? I worked with him – not bad. More like the RCBS 90200 … Although my friend Jack loves this Frankfurt.