Why are primers backing out?--Shotgun

old single shots

December 17, 2002 07:50

I have a very small framed single shot shotgun .410 with a 2-1/2" chamber.Essex Gun Works.It appears to be made by H&R mdl 5 lightweight.The gun is obviously old but looks to be in excellant cond.No rust,pitting,locks up as tight as new.When fired the primers partially back out.Is this a sign of excessive pressure or maybe just weak hammer spring???The hammer fall appears to be normal and dents the primer well.Would love to use this little gun for rabbits but don't want to blow it or myself up.Any ideas??

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  Iconoclast

  December 17, 2002 07:55

  I presume these are new shells, not reloads? I've seen this a few times with well-worn primer pockets in both shotshell and metallics, but not in new rounds.

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  old single shots

  December 17, 2002 08:01

  Iconoclast--New shells.Have tried both Rem and winchester--same results.

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  JustC

  December 17, 2002 08:57

  Make sure your charge bar and/or bushing is dropping powder correctly. It seems as though this is a textbook incident of too much pressure, but that might just be too easy. Also, is the powder the right type and measure?
  
  I have seen Hornady Light magnum factory ammo start to move the primer out in a 30-06. I don't know if they intended it or knew about it, but I was surprised it made it to market that way. Seems that the light magnum means they stuffed the max+ charge in it.
  
  I'm a man,....but I can change,.....If I have to,......I guess.

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  old single shots

  December 17, 2002 09:05

  JustC--I am not using reloaded shotshells.Only factory ammo.

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  king999

  December 17, 2002 11:48

  It is also possible that your headspace is excessive. Prepare a metal shim around .003 or so (actually a piece from a tin can top is satisfactory) cut to be the same diameter as the rim. Attach it to the shotshell head with anything that will hold it for a moment, and try to close the action. If it closes easily try two shims. If it still closes, your headspace is excessive.
  Have fun, be careful
  Morty

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  MIKE WISKEY

  December 18, 2002 04:36

  king999 has it righ, the only way primers can back out is excessive headspace. this is not a big problem with something like a .410, if the gun fires reliably and doesn't pierce the primers i'd use it. a good 'smith should be able to correct the problem if it bothers you.

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  IRONSTICKS

  December 19, 2002 04:37

  King999 is right on target. I had the same problem with an old 20 ga.
  If it's a good shooter, let your smith handle it.

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  old single shots

  December 19, 2002 04:46

  Thanks to ALL of you for your replys.The gun seems to be in excellant shape other than the primer problem.It only weighs about 3-4 lbs. and would be a fun rabbit gun.So,i guess i am off to see the gunsmithAgain,Thanks.

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