Does anybody know a source of Berdan Primers?

[Claven2]

I would not just rely on websites - best to actually call.

[dsmc1]

Thanks, will try that. Kittery had nothing of any use for 577 snider, or berdan primers.
However they DO have used dies and I got a sizer for $1.00 I can have reamed out to use as a neck sizer, once I determine the size I need. Ordered a 585 HB mold. and purchased some powdered sulfur, which I've read is good for making a chamber cast (plug the barrel just above the breech, then melt the sulfur and pour it into the chamber; 10 minutes to cool, then knock it out and you have an exact cast of the chamber to measure; in the Dixie Gun Works catalogue)

[gandog56]

Anyway I MADE a decapping tool by placing a 1/2 inch dowel into the case, then using a number 18 drill, one at a time, drilled out to enlarge the flash holes in each case, with the dowel clamped in a vise, and the cartridge over it

That scares me. I was warned to never enlarge flash holes, as this will drastically change pressures.

[dsmc1]

Hi Gandog
I wouldn't think that would be an issue with black powder loads, but then I'm far from considering myself an expert on the subject.
Thanks for the warning though;I appreciate it. Could be very important for anyone using smokeless loads.

[dsmc1]

Had the snider carbine out ysterday firing with .575 505 gr minies, and 60 gr pyrodex. Old girl shot great; noticed no pressure issues from the drilled out flashholes. I still prefer the aroma of true black powder smoke, to the smell of pyrodex.
Tried someone's suggestion to use windex to clean the barrel; worked reall nice; couple passes with a drenched swab, then a good coat of gun oil and the bore looks like new again.

Going to try the windex on the cases, too; am just concerned the liquid will soften the carboard tube inserts in the Kynock brass (used to reduce case volume).

If some one has a better suggestion, I'm all ears. I can just wipe out the inside of the cases, but I'm sure there is fowling between the brass walls and the cardboard inserts, that will start to corrode the brass if not removed. Suspect I MAY have to remove the inserts.

[Steve85569]

I'm curious. Why not just replace the Berdan primed brass with boxer primed and be done with the "shooting dirty" problem?

But then I guess that's really not reloading Military.

[skeet1]

gandog56,
Maybe I missed something but why would you want to load berdan cases when boxer cases are available at New Rifle Brass Hope this might help you.

Skeet1

[chucksniper]

PMC Ammo

[NuJudge]

Old Western Scrounger ran out of Berdan primers some 10 years ago, then closed and opened under new management.

There are rumors that Wolf may bring in the same .217" primers (made by Murom) that PMC brought in. You might want to encourage Wolf to do this. Please also ask them to bring in .254" (most 7.62x54R) and .250" (most .303), and maybe .175" (7.62x45).

[Gun Surfer]

Recent search of internet indicates all former sources are out of Berdan primers right now (or out of business). Recommend calling one of the suppliers and ask if they will special order a block of them.

I wonder if a non-dealer can sell and mail primers to a buyer?