Snap Caps: Inexpensive Protection - Shot Gunner

Guns Magazine, March, 2002 by Holt Bodinson

A set of quality snap caps, usually nickel-plated, has traditionally graced the case of every fine double shotgun, and with good reason. The snap cap, with a resilient buffer in place of the primer, is an invaluable tool for protecting and prolonging the life of firing pins and the size and shape of firing-pin holes in the standing breech of a SXS or O/U.

The snap cap has two purposes. During cleaning, it permits the gun owner to release the firing pins into a cushioned medium that protects both firing pins from material fatigue and prevents the distortion of the firing-pin holes. And a well-made snap cap also allows gun owners to dry-fire their gun with the assurance that they're doing no harm.

The Pachmayr Division of Lyman Products has just introduced a line of solid aluminum snap caps for every gauge and common centerfire calibers. What's nice about metal snap caps, rather than plastic units, is the ability of the metal rims to take the wear and tear imposed by the extractors and ejectors of semiautos and pumps.

Look for these new Pachmayr products at your nearest sporting goods store.