10 Best Hand Priming Tools For Better Reloading

If you are a gun enthusiast, then there are a number of gun accessories you need to invest in. One of the best ways you can make the most of your guns is with the help of reloading cases. For a reloading case, you also need a hand primer. So, here we go…

You have to select the best hand primer for you so that it fits your needs perfectly. Primers are relatively easy to use and don’t demand a lot of time as well. But you have to make sure that the hand primer you are getting is truly ergonomic and will not use too much power. A hand primer ideally should also last thousands of rounds of shooting, so durability is a must.

The Top 8 Best Hand Priming Tools

In the market, a lot of hand priming tools that are available. However, you have to be very sure to look into the pros and cons to make sure that you are making the right purchase.

We have spent hours meticulously trying to figure out which hand primers are the best in the market. After extensive research and hard work, we have been able to shortlist eight top hand primers that you can rely on. Sit back and relax, then get your best hand primer for the list below. 

Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Primer Seating Tool 

• Shell Holders: 12
• Dimensions: 11 x 9 x 3 inches
• Weight:  2.2 pounds
• Material: Die-cast zinc with steel interiors

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This is the perfect hand primer with a reloading case from Frankford Arsenal for those who dislike crushing primers to prime with. It comes with a dial-in that can be set with the seating inch up to one-thousandth of an inch, which is truly incredible. After setting the dial, all you have to do is squeeze the handle without any worry of breaking the hand primer.

The priming unit comes with 12 shell holders, as well as 12 of the best calibers. You can store the holders along inside the storage case for quickly accessing all the items at once. The cases extremely study and will keep your things protected at all times.

Of course, these modern and advanced features make this hand primer extremely costly. In fact, it is one of the most expensive primaries in the market at the moment. However, you will be paying for a product that is worth your money. You don’t have to keep pressing the primer because it will hold tight once it reaches the spot when you prime. 

This tool is made from die-cast zinc while the interior is made purely of Steel. The frame is extremely sturdy and will not break even when priming a case with great force. The hand primer supply train can hold around a hundred primers at the same time. It also comes with ridges on the inside, keeping the primers faced in the correct direction.

• Comes with a case to store all your priming tools
• Durable
• Seating depth can precisely set.

• Expensive

RCBS 90201 Hand Priming Universal Tool 

• Shell Holders: Universal
• Dimensions: 10.9 x 5.1 x 1.8 inches
• Weight: 0.5 Pound
• Material: Steel

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This is one of the favorite primers in the market simply because of how versatile it is. So, it includes the handle or the body along with a tray as well as two prime holders in two colors: black and white. While the black prime holders are for a bigger prime the white one is for the smaller ones. It is also an extreme Sensitive primer that will work smoothly for you.

What makes this product so versatile is the universal shell plate? You do not need to get a variety of shell holders for using this primer. You can prime a number of cases and different varieties of them on this universal shell plate. The opposing jaws that are present on the shell plate keep the case brilliantly aligned with the best primer for easier control. The handle of this primer is very comfortable and well designed to keep using this even after working for a long while.

You can fit many primers on the tray which makes it additionally beneficial, especially if you want to reload a number of cases one after the other or simultaneously. The removable tray is great and can hold primers from different brands and manufacturers

• Can be used for priming different cases
• Can be used for different shells all at the same time
• Durable

• The shell removing is time-consuming and complicated

Hornady 0500021 Priming Tool Handheld 

• Shell Holders: Fits a wide range
• Dimensions: 8 x 7 x 3 inches
• Weight: 1.23 pound
• Material: Steel

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If you have a single-stage press, then this is the best equipment you can consider. This best handheld Priming tool comes with a host of amazing features that makes it stand out from the rest. It is a molded sports integral item with superior quality bushings that provides extremely reliable performance at all times.

This priming tool comes with a primer tray that has an exceptionally superior retaining ability and comes with a lid for extra protection. You do not need separate primer bushing in case of this primary tool because it already comes with a tray that completes all the functions. If you fancy using RCBS  shell holders, you will be happy to know that this item now comes with an additional primer tray that is custom fit for such shell holders.

However, this equipment has been advanced and experimented on repeatedly. After many sets of testing the body of this tool has been modified and order for an easier changeover. You do not need to change the punch and spring every time since spring as well as the seater punch are captured properly in the priming tool.

• Ergonomic Design
• Integrally molded primer bushing
• Best for the single-stage press

• Does not come with a case

RCBS 90200 Hand Priming Universal Tool 

• Shell Holders: None
• Dimensions: 10.3 x 4.9 x 1.8 Inches
• Weight: 0.95 Pound
• Material: Cast metal

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This is another extremely popular and well mate product by RCBS. Wherein, it comes with a safety gate that separates the primer from the primary supply which is being seated. Which significantly reduces the chances of tray detonation.

However, this product does not come with shell holders. Wherein, you will be able to reuse from other RCBS tools as it uses the exact same holder. If you do not have RCBS tools, you will have to purchase a shell holder separately. This priming tool is made from cast metal, which makes it durable.

Moreover, this Priming tool is exceptionally long-lasting, and you will be able to use this over the years. This product is also easy to use and comes with an informative user manual describing how to use this tool. Once you figure out the perfect method, you will be able to use it without wasting primers.

You must take some time to see that you have taken all the correct steps. Otherwise, your hands may start cramping. There is no one right way to use this for the best hand priming tool experience. So you must figure out what is best for you.

•  Safety gate reduces any chances of tray detonation
• Cast metal makes it durable
• Can Reuse the shell holder from your previous RCBS tool

• Does not come with a shell holder

5. Universal E-Zee Priming Tool from Lyman Shell 

• Holders: Universal
• Dimensions: 6 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches
• Weight: 0.88 Pound
• Material: Steel

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Lyman gifts you with a hand primer that has a single handler body along with two trays. To fit two different kinds of primers. Firstly, it is easy to use, and all you have to do is to assemble the handle with the holder and the tray. Next, it is compatible with any standardized shell holders, and you will be able to interchange between primer sizes in no time at all. Finally, it comes with recognizable pieces so that you do not lose or misplace anything.

Every tray comes with a built-in gate that shuts off so that the Primers stay in place during the changeover. The reloader works by merely removing the snap-in-place collar lock and readily install the appropriate primer tray depending on the size of the primer.

Likewise, it is a reliable primer that fits perfectly in your hands. Its design makes it very easy to use without feeling tired or your hands cramping. The plastic lid has as well as the body of this primer is made with very high-quality material to provide long-lasting durability.

• Reliable and Durable
• Do not have to exert more energy due to its ergonomic design
• Comes with a Universal shell holder

• You need to continuously tip this item too and fro.

LEE PRECISION 90700 Bench Auto Priming Tool 

• Shell Holders: None
• Dimensions: 10.9 x 7 x 2 inches
• Weight: 1.13 Pounds
• Material: Steel

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This is an entire priming setup for your bench.You can increase the stability of this product by securing it to your workbench. With the help of this product, you will be able to make your experience of using the best hand priming tool way smoother and reliable.

Next, the unit is not heavy, so you will not have two waste a lot of energy to set up this tool. It comes with all the accessories like nuts and bolts required to set up on your table.

This product, however, does not come with the shareholder; however, you will be able to use any Lee shell holders. It is effortless to use this tool, and you will be ready to start timing in a matter of seconds after setting it up.

You can set the tray of the primer in three different positions, and each of them will add an element of functionality. However, this is an equipment that you must get used to before you can make the most out of it.

• Increased stability
• Tray has a built-in primer flipping feature

• Does not come with shell holder

LEE PRECISION 90230 Hand Priming Tool

• Shell Holders: None
• Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 2 inches
• Weight: 0.6 Pound
• Material: Steel

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This is an updated version of the classic hand priming tool from Lee Precision. It is compatible with primers from all companies. One of the finest features is the “elevator pin” which acts as a safeguard between the tray and the primer, reducing the chances of tray detonation.

It has a well-made shell holder as well as the handle. This product has been updated with the addition of a comfort curve lever, which is unbreakable as well as a triangular box that is compatible with all kinds of primers. You can use the flight on the cover to change the size.

• Compatible with all primers.
• Unbreakable comfort curve lever

• Using this is a little cumbersome.

LEE PRECISION Ergo Prime

• Shell Holders: None
• Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 2 inches
• Weight: 0.88 Pound
• Material: Steel 

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This can easily be the best hand priming tool that comes with a number of amazing features that make it extremely popular. The sensitivity and reliability of this product are increased because of the fingertip operation that is available on this device. When you want to change the size of the primer you do not need to disengage or use any additional tools. All you have to do is simply remove the shareholder and replace the primer tray.

It has an incredibly ergonomic design, which makes it very easy to work with this appliance. Next, it is designed to fit snugly in your hands without making you tired or your hands cramping.

It has a powder-coated metal body as well as a lever that is Chrome plated. This next not only The most reliable but also the most stylish and best hand priming tool in the market.

• Easy to use.
• Fingertip operation.
• Ergonomic design.

•  It does not come with a shell holder. 

Factors to Keep in Mind When Buying the Best Hand Priming Tool

With so many options in the market regarding a hand priming tool, it can get a little confusing for you to choose the one that will work well for you. Here are some of the important things that you need to keep in mind before making a purchase of a hand priming tool:

Affordability

You must have a  budget within which you want to buy your hand priming tool. There are a number of affordable as well as high priced options that you may want to choose. However, it is important to keep in mind that a high price does not always correlate with good quality. There are also some hand priming tools that are excellent but also cost less.

Material

A hand priming tool is an overall expensive item. You want to make the most out of it before it begins to wear off. For this reason, it is extremely important that you buy something that is made up of the most durable material. This will be able to provide you service for many years and will be a worthy buy.

Shell holders

When you are choosing a hand priming tool shell holders are extremely important. For this reason, you must choose one that will be able to work with a range of products. Many a hand priming tool comes with a Universal shell holder, which is also a great option. You must also keep in mind that some priming tools do not come with the holder of the shell at all, and you may need to buy them separately.

Safety

It is essential for you to keep safe when priming. You are generally pushing primers into brass, which may not seem very dangerous. However, with several primers in-hand, you should purchase of priming tool that comes with a safety gate.

Design

When you are priming using a priming tool, it is essential that you choose one that has an ergonomic design. If you get hold of a priming tool that is not well made or does not fit your hand properly, it may start hurting your hands. When you have a well-designed priming tool, it will provide you with a better grip and help your hand from not cramping.

FAQs

Can the shell holder that I use in my reloading press, used for priming?

If you are using reloading press and a priming tool from the same company, you will be able to use the corresponding shell holder. However, if the companies do not match, you need to buy a shell holder for your priming tool separately.

How can I use a priming tool without crushing my primers?

Some models come with a dial that helps you to set the seating depth. In such a case, you will never crush a primer. However, for most other varieties, you will have to feel for yourself and adjust accordingly.

You must release as soon as you can hear the primer set. After all, this can cause some inaccuracy, and all of them may not set at a particular depth.

What is the difference between a portable and a mounted hand primer?

Both of these can get the job done very quickly. It is never a matter of comfort and choice. A mounted hand primer will provide you with some extra stability and security. However, if you want to carry your priming tool around, you must get a portable one.

Can any shell holder be used on a priming tool?

Most of the priming tools come with their separate shell holders. However, if you have gotten one without a shell holder, you will have to buy one that is compatible with your tool separately. You cannot merely use any shell holder with your particular priming tool.

Conclusion

You have a significant number of choices when it comes to getting your hands on the perfect hand priming tool. Simply make sure to keep the essential things in mind when making the purchase.

You may take some time to adjust with some priming tool. However, with some practice, you will be able to get the hang of it easily. Go ahead and make the best purchase decision. Cheers!