Loading shotshells(12ga)

[Richardc]

Just looking for tips. I just bought a new press, I have been loading metallic for a while and wanted to start on shot shells. It seems more simple and complex all at the same time.

[ghostrider]

Just looking for tips. I just bought a new press, I have been loading metallic for a while and wanted to start on shot shells. It seems more simple and complex all at the same time.

questions:
# what press did you get?
# what is the intended use of the shells? (birdshot for skeet or hunting, buckshot for competition or HD?)
# what components have you purchased (if any)?
# do you have powders to choose from, or do you want input on that as well?

tips:
# buy the Lyman shotshell reloading manual
# in my opinion, Remington hulls are the best choice
# stick with published recipes with the specified components - do not substitute like in metallic reloading

[Richardc]

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Just looking for tips. I just bought a new press, I have been loading metallic for a while and wanted to start on shot shells. It seems more simple and complex all at the same time.

questions:
# what press did you get?
# what is the intended use of the shells? (birdshot for skeet or hunting, buckshot for competition or HD?)
# what components have you purchased (if any)?
# do you have powders to choose from, or do you want input on that as well?

tips:
# buy the Lyman shotshell reloading manual
# in my opinion, Remington hulls are the best choice
# stick with published recipes with the specified components - do not substitute like in metallic reloading

I got a Lee Load All, found one in Cabelas bargain bin for $36 unopened, and i spent the extra $10 for the primer feed thing.
Just cheap dove loads for now.
No components but some Winchester AA and Universal hulls.
Powders I have are IMR-4350, 4831,3031,4895, Reloader 11, 2400, Red dot, Unique.
I was looking at the lyman book, I guess ill have to go pick it up.

[Don2]

I was just over at a shotshell forum reading and saw this. You may be interested in it.

http://www.shotgunworld.com/bbs/viewtop ... 4e5a74f6ea" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

It's all about the Load-All good and bad.


Don2

[Richardc]

Thanks it was a good read, seems fairly cut and dry.

[Don2]

Thanks it was a good read, seems fairly cut and dry.

I'll mention a few things.
Number one is a good scale, I'm sure you already use one with metallic loads.
Plus when you get your manual, follow the load data and do not sub any items. Later as you progress you will find a few items you can.
Do not trust the loader to throw the amount of shot and powder the bushings say it will. Always measure them in your scale until you get it dialed in.

The two powders you mentioned will work with 12 gauge are red dot and unique. But go with your manual data on these.
The wad mentioned for each load or hull is important and needs to be correct to make everything fit correctly. Some are shorter or longer and various size shot cups plus some are for tapered hulls and some are for straight hulls.
Wad selection is important. ( go with load data components )

I have not loaded shot shells with a Lee Load-All, but I have a friend that uses one and both of our shells look the same and shoot the same. The Lee loader is different in that it is made mostly of plastic but it will work fine. Just work with it until you get it working the way you want. Try to stay with one brand and type of shot shell hulls to start, changing hull brands sometimes means adjusting the press. You may get those pesky holes in the middle of the crimps that may leak shot if not adjusted properly....

Be patient and have fun
Don2