APS Small Pistol Primers #550

APS Small Pistol Primers #550 are a specific type of primer used in the reloading of small caliber handgun cartridges. Here’s a detailed overview:

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APS Small Pistol Primers #550 – Complete Overview

🔧 Manufacturer & Designation

• APS: Stands for Automatic Primer Strip, a system designed by RCBS for automated primer feeding.

• #550: This is the CCI designation for Small Pistol Magnum Primers, indicating they’re designed for higher pressure loads than standard small pistol primers.

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🧪 Specifications

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🛠️ Intended Use

• Calibers: Commonly used in:

  • .357 Magnum

  • .327 Federal Magnum

  • High-performance 9mm or .38 Super loads (if specified)

• Applications:

  • Magnum loads with heavier powder charges

  • Cold weather shooting (more reliable ignition)

  • Harder-to-ignite powders like ball powders

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⚙️ APS (Automatic Primer Strip) System

• System Overview:

  • APS primers come pre-seated in color-coded plastic strips

  • Designed for use with RCBS’s APS-compatible priming tools and presses

• Advantages:

  • Safe primer handling—no loose primers

  • Reduces risk of detonation chain

  • Speeds up priming process with compatible equipment

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🧼 Safety & Storage

• Storage: Store in cool, dry environment away from heat, flame, or impact.

• Handling: Do not deprime live primers; avoid contamination with oils or solvents.

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🧩 Compatibility

• RCBS Priming Tools: Must be used with APS-compatible hand priming tools, bench priming tools, or progressive presses.

• Not Compatible With: Standard primer tubes or trays without conversion.

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🧪 Performance Notes

• Magnum primers create a hotter, longer-lasting flame.

• This is beneficial for:

  • Ensuring complete powder burn in large or dense powder charges

  • Cold temperature shooting conditions

• Not recommended in place of standard primers unless specified in published load data.

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✅ Pros

• Preloaded strips are convenient and reduce risk of contamination

• Ideal for magnum handgun rounds

• Enhanced ignition reliability for certain powders

❌ Cons

• Requires APS-compatible equipment

• May increase pressure if substituted for standard primers without data adjustment

• Sometimes harder to find than standard primers

• APS Small Pistol Primers #550