We just bought a sportorized Springfield 1903 Mark I. We shot several rounds of surplus ammo then one round of PMC 150 Gr. psp followed with one round of Winchester 156 Gr psp.

The surplus shot fine. PMC backed out the primer, and the Winchester a flattened primer.

I am not sure which we shot first the PMC or the Winchester.

Does this rifle have a head space issue?

Thanks Ben

Often you can't tell about headspace from fired cartridges. Take it to a gunsmith whom has a set of headspace gauges for the 30-06 and have it checked.

You're wise to be concerned, but there may not be a problem. The only factory loaded ammo I've ever used that blew primers was PMC stuff in .30-06 and 6.5X55, and a flattened primer may or may not be a sign of excessive pressures, depending upon the type and extent of the flattening. Getting the rifle checked with guages is the smart course to follow.

You're wise to be concerned, but there may not be a problem. The only factory loaded ammo I've ever used that blew primers was PMC stuff in .30-06 and 6.5X55, and a flattened primer may or may not be a sign of excessive pressures, depending upon the type and extent of the flattening. Getting the rifle checked with guages is the smart course to follow.


A gunsmith is good advice,