Hornady Versa-Prime Bench Priming Tool: SETUP & OPERATION (Everything You Need to Know)

Published on January 9, 2026
Duration: 10:49

This guide details the setup and operation of the Hornady Versa-Prime Bench Priming Tool. It covers unboxing, assembly, handle placement, primer punch and disc selection, shell holder installation, primer tube loading, and precise primer seating depth adjustment. The video emphasizes safety and offers tips for efficient batch priming and swapping between large and small primers.

Quick Summary

The Hornady Versa-Prime Bench Priming Tool allows for precise primer seating depth adjustment using a primer handle stop. Initially, back out the stop to expose about 0.050 inches. After seating a primer, adjust the stop until primers are flush to -0.008 inches, ideally 0.002-0.003 inches below flush, then tighten the set screw.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Unboxing
  2. 00:15Unboxing Components
  3. 00:33Handle Placement & Stop Installation
  4. 01:22Primer Handle Installation
  5. 01:44Primer Punch Selection
  6. 01:59Primer Feed Disc Installation
  7. 02:24Primer Tube Adapter Setup
  8. 03:03Shell Holder & Primer Guide Installation
  9. 03:45Primer Tube Housing & Tube Installation
  10. 04:14Fiberglass Follower Function
  11. 04:36Loading Primers into Tube
  12. 05:32Filling Primer Tube
  13. 05:57Feeding Primers into Disc
  14. 06:18Testing Primer Feed
  15. 06:55Setting Primer Seating Depth
  16. 08:02Batch Priming Process
  17. 08:15Removing Excess Primers
  18. 08:49Swapping Primer Sizes
  19. 10:17Conclusion & Features

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you set up the handle on the Hornady Versa-Prime?

The Versa-Prime is ambidextrous. First, install the primer handle stop and Allen key on your preferred side. Then, insert the primer handle's cam into the slot, align it with the pin, and secure it with the e-clip. This setup allows for comfortable operation whether you are right or left-handed.

What is the purpose of the fiberglass follower in the Versa-Prime primer tube?

The fiberglass follower in the Versa-Prime primer tube has three key functions: it applies slight pressure to ensure primers feed smoothly, serves as a visual indicator of how many primers are left, and locks the priming disc rotation on the final primer to prevent accidental dry runs.

How do you adjust the primer seating depth on the Versa-Prime?

To adjust primer seating depth, loosen the nylon tipped set screw and back out the primer handle stop. Insert a cartridge case and depress the handle to seat a primer. Adjust the stop until the primer is seated flush to -0.008 inches, then tighten the set screw. Hornady recommends 0.002-0.003 inches below flush.

Why is it important to use Hornady-branded shell holders with the Versa-Prime?

It is crucial to use Hornady-branded shell holders with the Versa-Prime because the primer guide was specifically designed to match the internal hole diameter of these holders. This precise fit ensures that the primer is aligned perfectly true and seated accurately.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Hornady Manufacturing

View all →