Reloading your own 12 gauge shotgun shells can be a rewarding experience, offering cost savings, customization, and a deeper understanding of your firearm. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, covering essential equipment, safety precautions, and step-by-step instructions. Whether you're a seasoned reloader or a curious beginner, this guide provides valuable insights into the world of 12 gauge shotgun shell reloading.
Why Reload 12 Gauge Shells?
There are several compelling reasons why many shooters choose to reload their own 12 gauge shotgun shells:
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Cost Savings: Factory-loaded ammunition can be expensive, especially with the increasing popularity of shooting sports and hunting. Reloading significantly reduces the cost per round, making it a budget-friendly option for high-volume shooters.
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Customization: Reloading allows for precise control over the components used in your shells. This means you can tailor your loads to specific needs, such as adjusting shot size, powder charge, and wad type to optimize performance for different applications like trap shooting, hunting waterfowl, or upland game bird hunting.
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Component Availability: While factory ammunition availability can fluctuate, reloading components are generally more readily available, ensuring you always have the supplies you need.
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Enhanced Understanding: The process of reloading provides a hands-on understanding of how shotgun ammunition works, allowing you to troubleshoot potential issues and appreciate the intricacies of your firearm.
Essential Equipment for Reloading 12 Gauge Shells
Before you begin, you'll need the right equipment. Investing in quality tools will ensure accuracy, safety, and a smoother reloading experience. Essential equipment includes:
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Shotgun Shell Reloader: A dedicated 12 gauge reloading press is crucial. Different models cater to various levels of experience and production needs.
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Powder Measure: Accurate powder dispensing is paramount for safety and consistent performance. Choose a measure appropriate for your chosen powder type.
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Scale: A precision scale is needed to double-check powder charges for accuracy. Never rely solely on your powder measure.
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Dies: Dies are the tools that resize, prime, and crimp your shotgun shells. You’ll need a set specifically designed for 12 gauge shells.
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Primer Seating Tool: This tool carefully seats the primers into the shell casing, ensuring proper ignition.
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Shot Measure: Accurate shot measurement is essential for consistent patterns and performance.
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Wads: Wads are crucial for sealing the shot and powder within the shell casing and preventing premature detonation or damage. Choose wads specifically designed for 12 gauge shells and your chosen shot size.
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Shot: Choose shot sizes appropriate for your intended use. Different shot sizes have varying patterns and ranges.
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Case Preparation Tools: Tools for cleaning, resizing and inspecting used cases are necessary for consistent reloading.
Safety First: Reloading 12 Gauge Shells
Reloading 12 gauge shotgun shells involves working with potentially hazardous materials. Prioritize safety at all times:
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Always wear safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris or potential explosions.
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Work in a well-ventilated area: Gunpowder fumes can be hazardous.
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Follow reloading manuals strictly: Consult the reloading manuals for your specific components and equipment. Never deviate from the recommended data.
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Store components safely: Gunpowder, primers, and shot should be stored separately and away from ignition sources.
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Never mix components: Avoid mixing different types of gunpowder or primers.
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Check your work: Always double-check your powder charges and ensure all components are properly seated before loading.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reloading 12 Gauge Shells
This is a general outline; always consult your equipment and component manuals for specific instructions.
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Case Preparation: Inspect, clean, and resize your empty shotgun hulls.
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Primer Seating: Carefully seat the primers into the prepared hulls.
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Powder Charging: Use your powder measure and scale to accurately dispense the correct powder charge.
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Wad Seating: Seat the wad into the shell, ensuring proper positioning.
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Shot Charging: Measure and add the desired amount of shot.
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Crimping: Use your reloading press to crimp the shell, sealing the components securely.
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Inspection: Carefully inspect each loaded shell to ensure that all components are properly seated and the crimp is secure.
Conclusion
Reloading your own 12 gauge shotgun shells offers numerous advantages, from cost savings and customization to a deeper understanding of your firearm. By following safety precautions, investing in quality equipment, and strictly adhering to reloading manuals, you can enjoy the benefits of reloading safely and efficiently. Remember, safety is paramount, and always prioritize careful and accurate work.
