Reloading your own 12 gauge shotgun shells can be a rewarding experience, offering cost savings, customization options, and a deeper understanding of your firearm. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from gathering essential equipment to mastering the art of consistent, safe reloading.
Why Reload 12 Gauge Shells?
There are several compelling reasons to delve into 12 gauge shotgun reloading:
- Cost Savings: Factory-loaded ammunition can be expensive, especially with the rising cost of components. Reloading significantly reduces the per-shell cost, allowing you to shoot more for less.
- Customization: Reloading provides unparalleled control over your ammunition. You can tailor your loads to specific needs, experimenting with different shot types, powder charges, and wads to optimize performance for various hunting scenarios or target shooting disciplines.
- Ammunition Availability: During periods of high demand or limited availability, reloading ensures you have a consistent supply of ammunition tailored to your preferences.
- Enhanced Shooting Skills: The process of reloading fosters a deeper understanding of your firearm and ammunition, improving your overall shooting skills and knowledge.
Essential Equipment for 12 Gauge Shotgun Reloading
Before you begin, you'll need to invest in the necessary equipment. Quality equipment is crucial for safety and consistent results.
1. Reloading Press:
A reloading press is the heart of your reloading setup. There are several types available, including single-stage, progressive, and turret presses. Beginners often start with a single-stage press for its simplicity and ease of learning.
2. Dies:
These are specialized tools that perform various steps in the reloading process, such as resizing, priming, powder charging, and crimping. You'll need dies specific to 12 gauge shells.
3. Powder Measure:
Accurate powder measurement is crucial for safety and consistent performance. A powder measure ensures you charge each shell with the precise amount of powder specified in your reloading recipe.
4. Primer Seating Tool:
This tool seats primers firmly and safely into the shell primer pockets.
5. Crimping Tool:
This tool crimps the shell mouth, securely sealing the shot and powder inside.
6. Case Gauge:
A case gauge ensures your reloaded shells are within the correct dimensions.
7. Components:
You'll need to acquire 12 gauge shotgun hulls, shotgun primers, gunpowder (suitable for shotgun reloading), and shot. Always adhere to manufacturer's recommendations for proper powder and shot selection.
The 12 Gauge Shotgun Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The reloading process generally follows these steps:
- Case Preparation: Clean and inspect used hulls, removing any debris or damage.
- Sizing: Resize the spent hulls to their original dimensions using the resizing die.
- Primer Seating: Carefully seat the primers using the primer seating tool.
- Powder Charging: Accurately measure and charge the powder using the powder measure. Always follow the specific loading data for your chosen components.
- Shot Charging: Add the appropriate amount of shot using a shot measure or a loading funnel.
- Wad Seating: Seat the wad using the reloading press.
- Crimping: Crimp the shell mouth securely using the crimping die.
- Inspection: Inspect each reloaded shell carefully for any imperfections or irregularities.
Safety Precautions:
- Always follow reloading manuals and manufacturer's instructions. These provide crucial safety information and loading data.
- Work in a well-ventilated area. Gunpowder fumes can be harmful.
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Never mix different types of gunpowder or components.
- Store ammunition properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from ignition sources.
- Start with small batches. Practice reloading a few shells before tackling large quantities.
Conclusion:
Reloading your own 12 gauge shotgun shells offers numerous advantages. While it requires an initial investment in equipment and a commitment to learning the process, the rewards of cost savings, customization, and deeper shooting knowledge make it a worthwhile endeavor for many shooters. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Thoroughly research and understand each step before beginning, and always refer to reputable reloading manuals and data sources.
