Priming 56-50

[courier]

Pards,
    What device are you using to put the primers in the 56-50.Most of those listed don't go up to 50 cal.I ground the edges off of a Lyman hand primer,but it won't push the primer in far enough to be safe.What are you all using.Some simply won't take the #22 shell holder.
                                                                                                                        Regards,Courier

[Hell-Er High Water]

I use a RCBS "Hand Priming Tool".  This accepts the standard RCBS shell holders that go in the reloading press.  I use a Lyman No. 22 shell holder that I reduced the outside diameter on to the same as the RCBS shell holder.  This is a simple machining job in a lathe and could also be done by careful grinding.  A standard RCBS 50-70 shell holder may fit without any modification, you would just have to try it and see.

HHw

[Black River Smith]

The Lee press mounted priming tool will work, just use proper shell holder.  This is the one that mount on the top of the press.  Seen it for $12 -17, add shipping.

Then there is the New Lee Classic Press.  I bought one after the turn of the year.  It comes with two priming arms (small and large) similar to the RCBS and others.

Then, and this was the fun one.  I made my own old style pliers type priming tool before buying the Lee Classic.  Used a 3/4" rod knotched and hole drilled for case head. A 1/2" upper arm with stud and pin.  Stud to press primers in and pin on tapered end to deprime.  Works great and did I say it was fun to make and use.

I went through the same dilemma and asked the same question last year, Sept to Nov.  Also search the board for older info.

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[Grapeshot]

I just use the Primer Arm on my Rock Chucker with a priming tube filled with enough Large Magnum Rifle Primers and a standard .50-70/.56-.50 shell holder.

[Ed Clintwood]

I use an old RCBS jr press and the large priming arm and a #22 shell holder

[Grapeshot]

Just to be honest here, I also drill out the primer flash hole to three-thityseconds of an inch (3/32) to insure positive ignition with Pyrodex and any of the subs when I can't get the real deal, (Black Powder).

This will duplicate to some extent the amount of fire that ignited the original rim fire loads.