If you own a pistol and are looking for ammunition and other essential supplies for your pistol, then you might be in the market to purchase pistol primers. If you're fairly new to purchasing pistol primers — such as if you're a first-time gun owner or if you are just getting interested in reloading your own ammunition — then you might be looking for more information. If so, these are some of the things that you will probably want to know.

They're Available in Different Sizes

Pistol primers are available in different sizes, and you'll need to choose either large or small pistol primers based on the size and type of pistol that you have. If you own multiple pistols and like to use different types of ammunition, then you might want to purchase both small and large pistol primers.

You May Be Able to Use a Rifle Primer in a Pinch

Although it's ideal to purchase primers that are designed to be used with pistol ammunition, you might sometimes find that it's hard for you to find the primers that you are looking for. In some cases, though, small rifle primers can be used in a pinch. Just be aware that you might notice that your ammunition quality isn't quite as high if you do choose to use rifle primers. Also, be aware that large rifle primers are probably going to be too large for use with your pistol, so make sure that you look for the small ones.

They Are Often Considered Hazardous

Because pistol primers include primary explosives, they are considered potentially hazardous. Because of this, you should check the laws in your city and state to be sure that you are allowed to possess them. You should be aware of shipping laws when buying them, and you should make sure that you store and handle your pistol primers properly once you receive them.

There Are Two Main Types

Not only can you purchase pistol primers in different sizes, but you can also choose between two main types of pistol primers. Boxer primers are the most commonly used in the United States, and they are usually the easiest to reload. Berdan primers have a slightly different design — such as the lack of an internal anvil that is present in boxer primers and that helps with ignition — and are usually considered to be the inferior option, although they can be used as well.