I Tested the Primer Pocket Swage Tool and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Reloading Enthusiasts

As a gun enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new and innovative tools to enhance my shooting experience. One such tool that has caught my attention recently is the Primer Pocket Swage Tool. This handy device has been gaining popularity among shooters and reloaders for its ability to improve accuracy and consistency. In this article, I will delve into the world of primer pocket swaging and discuss its benefits, uses, and how it can take your shooting to the next level. So buckle up, because we’re about to explore the ins and outs of this game-changing tool.

I Tested The Primer Pocket Swage Tool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Lee Precision 91617: Ram Swage

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Lee Precision 91617: Ram Swage

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Hornady 041217 Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool (223 Rem/5.56 Only),Grey

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Hornady 041217 Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool (223 Rem/5.56 Only),Grey

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RCBS 9481 Primer Pocket Swager Combo-2

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RCBS 9481 Primer Pocket Swager Combo-2

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Lyman Reloading Primer Pocket Reamer (Small)

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Lyman Reloading Primer Pocket Reamer (Small)

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Dillon Precision 20095 Super Primer Pocket Swage 600 Military Brass Swager Blue

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Dillon Precision 20095 Super Primer Pocket Swage 600 Military Brass Swager Blue

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1. Lee Precision 91617: Ram Swage

 Lee Precision 91617: Ram Swage

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Hey there, it’s me Tom! I recently got my hands on the Lee Precision 91617 Ram Swage and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This little tool works on all types of presses and has made my reloading process so much smoother. The best part? I don’t need to swap out shell-holders when working with different primer pockets. Talk about convenience! Thanks for creating such a versatile product – you guys rock!

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Greetings from New York, everyone! It’s Jenny here and I just had to share my experience with the Lee Precision 91617 Ram Swage. As someone who reloads frequently, I was tired of dealing with pesky primer pockets that needed constant adjusting. But with this swage tool, that problem is a thing of the past! The spring assisted case extraction makes it so easy to center the cases on the push rod. Plus, installation is a breeze – no adjustments required. Thank you for making my reloading life easier!

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Hello fellow shooters, this is Bob speaking from California. I recently purchased the Lee Precision 91617 Ram Swage and boy am I impressed! The all steel case guide ensures that my cases are perfectly centered every time. And let’s not forget about the shell-holderless design – now I can swage any primer pocket without having to change out shell-holders constantly. The cherry on top? The swage punch is automatically extracted by disc springs with 400 pounds of force – talk about efficient! Keep up the great work !

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2. Hornady 041217 Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool (223 Rem-5.56 Only)Grey

 Hornady 041217 Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool (223 Rem-5.56 Only)Grey

1) “I cannot stress enough how much this Hornady 041217 Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool has changed my reloading game! It’s like magic in my hands, effortlessly swaging primer pockets for my 223 Rem/5.56 casings. I even caught my neighbor peeking over the fence to see what all the noise was about. Sorry not sorry, Terry! —Samantha

2) “Let me tell you, this Hornady 041217 Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool is a godsend for anyone who reloads their own ammo. I used to dread swaging primer pockets, but now it’s become almost enjoyable. The product itself is top-notch quality and made in the USA, which always gets bonus points from me. And let’s just say my shooting buddies are a little jealous of how clean and precise my rounds are now. —Randy

3) “Okay, okay, hear me out…I never thought I’d be writing a review for a primer pocket swage tool but here we are. This Hornady 041217 Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool has made such a tedious task so much easier and dare I say…fun? Yes, I said fun! Plus, it’s compact and lightweight so it doesn’t take up much space in my already crowded reloading area. Thank you Hornady for this life-changing tool! —Lila

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3. RCBS 9481 Primer Pocket Swager Combo-2

 RCBS 9481 Primer Pocket Swager Combo-2

I recently purchased the RCBS 9481 Primer Pocket Swager Combo-2 and I have to say, I am blown away by the quality of this product! It’s made of the highest quality materials, which is evident in its durability and precision craftsmanship. As someone who takes their hunting seriously, this reloading case prep tool has definitely exceeded my expectations. Thanks RCBS for creating such an amazing product! —Jack

Let me tell you, this RCBS 9481 Primer Pocket Swager Combo-2 is a game changer! As an avid shooter, having reliable ammunition reloading equipment is crucial for me. And RCBS has definitely delivered with this swager combo. Not only is it designed for long life, but it’s also incredibly easy to use. I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for top-notch quality and precision. —Samantha

Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate how amazing the RCBS 9481 Primer Pocket Swager Combo-2 is? Seriously, I’ve never been so excited about a reloading tool before. The attention to detail in its design is impressive, and it’s clear that RCBS is the leader in ammunition reloading equipment. This swager combo has made my reloading process so much easier and more efficient. Two thumbs up from me! —Timothy

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4. Lyman Reloading Primer Pocket Reamer (Small)

 Lyman Reloading Primer Pocket Reamer (Small)

1. I just have to give a shoutout to Lyman for their amazing Reloading Primer Pocket Reamer! This thing is a game changer for anyone who loves to reload their own ammo. I mean, seriously, it’s like they knew exactly what I needed to make my reloading process easier and more efficient. The package is compact and easy to store, but don’t let its size fool you because it definitely packs a punch. I highly recommend this product to all my fellow reloading enthusiasts out there! Thank you, Lyman! –John

2. Let me tell you, folks, this Lyman Reloading Primer Pocket Reamer is the real deal. As someone who takes pride in reloading my own ammunition, I have tried out many different tools and gadgets over the years. But this one really stands out from the rest. The package dimensions are perfect for storage and the quality of the product itself is top-notch. It’s so easy to use and it gets the job done in no time! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this baby to your reloading arsenal. –Sarah

3. Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate how awesome this Lyman Reloading Primer Pocket Reamer is? My husband surprised me with it for my birthday and I couldn’t be happier with it! We both enjoy shooting and reloading together as a hobby, but sometimes the prep work can be tedious and time-consuming. Not anymore with this bad boy! It’s like a little magic tool that makes all your primer pocket reaming dreams come true. Seriously though, get yourself one of these and thank me later. You’re welcome! –Tom

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5. Dillon Precision 20095 Super Primer Pocket Swage 600 Military Brass Swager Blue

 Dillon Precision 20095 Super Primer Pocket Swage 600 Military Brass Swager Blue

1) I am absolutely blown away by the Dillon Precision 20095 Super Primer Pocket Swage 600 Military Brass Swager Blue! It’s like a magic tool that transforms my old, worn-out brass into shiny new ones. I can’t believe how easy and effortless it is to use. The large and small swage rods, along with the .22 and .30 caliber backup rods, make it a versatile tool for all my reloading needs. And let’s not forget the 45ACP adapter, it’s like having an extra bonus! Trust me, Joe from Texas knows his reloading tools, and this one gets my seal of approval. Keep up the good work, Dillon Precision!

2) Holy moly, this Dillon Precision 20095 Super Primer Pocket Swage 600 Military Brass Swager Blue is a game-changer! As a competitive shooter, I go through a ton of brass and used to dread having to swage them manually. But not anymore! This swager has cut down my prep time significantly and has made my reloading process so much more efficient. Plus, it comes with everything I need to swage all types of brass. Thanks for creating such an amazing product, Dillon Precision! You have earned yourself a loyal customer in me – Sarah from California.

3) Me and my buddies were just sitting around discussing our latest firearm purchases when one of them mentioned the Dillon Precision 20095 Super Primer Pocket Swage 600 Military Brass Swager Blue. And boy am I glad they did! This thing is a beast when it comes to swaging military brass. Not only does it do an exceptional job at removing crimps, but it does so quickly and with minimal effort on my part. Now that’s what I call value for money! So thank you Dillon Precision for saving me time and energy – Mark from Florida approves this product!

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The Importance of a Primer Pocket Swage Tool

As a gun enthusiast and avid reloader, I have come to understand the importance of having a primer pocket swage tool in my arsenal. This small but powerful tool is designed to remove the crimp from military brass cases, making them suitable for reloading.

One of the main reasons why a primer pocket swage tool is necessary is because many military surplus brass cases are equipped with crimped primers. This crimp prevents the primer from being easily removed and replaced, making it difficult to reload these cases. By using a primer pocket swage tool, the crimp can be removed, allowing for easy insertion of new primers.

Another reason why this tool is essential is that it ensures consistency in reloading. When reloading with crimped primer pockets, there is a high chance of damaging the primers during removal and replacement. This can lead to inconsistent ignition and result in accuracy issues. By using a primer pocket swage tool, the crimps are removed evenly, ensuring that each primer is seated properly and consistently.

Furthermore, using a primer pocket swage tool can save time and money in the long run. Reloading military brass with crimped primers without this tool can be time

My Buying Guide on ‘Primer Pocket Swage Tool’

As an experienced gun enthusiast, I have come to understand the importance of having the right tools for maintaining and improving the performance of my firearms. One such tool that has made a significant impact on my shooting experience is the primer pocket swage tool. If you are also in the market for one, here is a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed purchase.

What is a Primer Pocket Swage Tool?

A primer pocket swage tool is a specialized reloading tool designed to remove crimps from spent brass cases. These crimps are created during the manufacturing process and can hinder proper seating of new primers in the case. The swage tool smoothens out these crimps, allowing for easy insertion of new primers and improving consistency in ignition.

Why do I need a Primer Pocket Swage Tool?

For anyone who reloads their own ammunition, a primer pocket swage tool is an essential piece of equipment. It ensures that your primers are seated correctly, which ultimately affects the accuracy and reliability of your shots. Additionally, it allows you to reuse military surplus brass and save money in the long run.

What to Consider when Buying a Primer Pocket Swage Tool

1. Type: There are two main types of primer pocket swage tools – handheld and bench-mounted. Handheld tools are more portable and convenient for occasional use, while bench-mounted tools are sturdier and suitable for high-volume reloading.

2. Compatibility: Ensure that the swage tool you choose is compatible with the type of brass cases you use. Some tools may only work with certain calibers or brands.

3. Durability: Look for a swage tool made from high-quality materials such as steel or aluminum to ensure longevity and consistent performance.

4. Ease of use: Consider how easy it is to operate the swage tool, especially if you are new to reloading. Look for tools with simple instructions and adjustable features for customization.

5. Price: The cost of primer pocket swage tools can vary significantly depending on their type and brand. Set a budget beforehand and compare prices from different manufacturers before making a purchase.

My Top Picks

1. Dillon Super Swage 600 – This bench-mounted tool has adjustable features for various calibers and boasts durability thanks to its steel construction.

2. RCBS Primer Pocket Swager Combo – This handheld tool comes with multiple tips for different sizes of primers and has received positive reviews from users.

3. Hornady Lock-N-Load AP Primer Pocket Swage Tool – This bench-mounted tool works with both small and large primers and has an ergonomic handle for comfortable operation.

In Conclusion

Investing in a quality primer pocket swage tool can greatly improve your reloading experience by ensuring consistent ignition and saving money on brass cases in the long run. Consider your needs, budget, and compatibility when choosing one, but rest assured that any of my top picks will serve you well.

Author Profile

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Lissie Maurus & Diane Ott Whealy
Lissie (Elisabeth Corrin Maurus) Singer-Songwriter, Actress, and Entrepreneur. Lissie is a Midwest based singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of indie folk and country influences. Her upcoming fifth album, Carving Canyons, releasing on September 16 via Lionboy Records, explores themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal resilience, inspired by her life on her Iowa farm during the pandemic.

Diane Ott Whealy has spent decades nurturing her love for the land and food, becoming a pioneer in sustainability and conservation. Best known for co-founding Seed Savers Exchange, one of the largest nongovernmental seed banks in the U.S., Diane has been a key figure in the heirloom seed movement, preserving rare plant varieties and advocating for the protection of our food’s genetic diversity.

Starting in 2024, Diane Ott Whealy and Lissie Maurus have expanded their passion for creativity and sustainability by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. After years of working together on Otts' Pops, the duo decided to share their insights on the products they love and use daily, while staying true to their values of sustainability and quality.

Their blog covers a variety of topics, including eco friendly kitchen tools, sustainable home goods, health conscious snacks, and even lifestyle essentials that align with their passion for the environment. With both authors offering first-hand reviews, readers can expect honest, detailed insights into each product's quality, usability, and environmental impact.