Hello all,

Been tinkering with my 257 Weatherby trying to find an optimum load for 115Gr bullets. I'm using Federal GM215M primers and have noticed that anytime I even get remotley close to Max, I get slight to moderate cratering around the firing pin strike. I find no other signs of pressure. I've reloaded many rounds in 220 Swift and 25-06 using Rem 9.5 and 9.5 Mag primers and have never seen cratering at or even slightly above max.

Are Federal 215's soft compared to other primers? I've shot plenty of Weatherby factory loads that supposedly use Fed 215 primers and have never had one crater on me and Weatherby factory loads are pretty hot.

What do you guy's think?

Thanks

I wouldn't sweat slight cratering (and I don't in my .300 win mag - it does it too) as long as .....

#1 You're not exceeding the max powder charge or max velocity using manufacturers current published load data.

It's probably of a sign of a sloppy firing pin/bolt and/or a soft primer cup moreso than a high pressure sign.

Another thing to look at - just for peace of mind - is how flat the primer edges get as you're working up towards max.

I'd go with #1 above any "traditional pressure signs".

softer than cci yes not sure about the rest

The same thing occured with my 257 Roy Rem SS SPS with Fed 215. I was considering having the firing pin hole sleeved or using an oversize firing pin but switched to Win LRM primers and had only a very slight amount of cratering with similar loads. The loads were not max. I think the Fed primers may be a little softer.

I have had half a dozen or more 257's, custom and factory.

Cratered primers seem to be par for the course in this caliber, especially when you stomp on the gas.

I suspect that over size firning pin holes in the bolts are a culprit.

I never popped a primer in a 257 Weatherby, however it is prudent to always wear safety glasses when shooting.