Reloading your own 12 gauge shotshells can be a rewarding experience, offering significant cost savings and the ability to customize your ammunition to your exact specifications. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from acquiring the necessary equipment to mastering the art of consistent, safe reloading.
Getting Started: Essential Equipment and Supplies
Before you begin, you'll need to gather the essential tools and components. Investing in quality equipment is crucial for safe and accurate reloading. Here's a list of necessities:
- Reloading Press: A progressive press significantly speeds up the process, while a single-stage press offers more control for beginners. Choose the press that best suits your needs and budget.
- Powder Measure: Accurate powder measurement is paramount for safe and consistent shotshells. Consider a powder measure with a micro-adjustment feature for precise charges.
- Shot Meter: A dedicated shot meter ensures consistent shot weights in each shell.
- Wads: Choose wads specifically designed for 12 gauge shotshells and the type of shot you intend to use. Various wad types exist, each optimized for different shot sizes and shell lengths.
- Shot: Select the appropriate shot size based on your intended game. Remember to handle shot carefully to avoid inhalation.
- Primers: Use only shotshell primers; rifle or pistol primers are unsafe and incompatible.
- Hull Sizing Die: This die resizes the spent hulls to ensure proper fit and function.
- Powder Funnel: A funnel facilitates safe and accurate powder transfer.
- Case Lube: Applying case lube to the hulls reduces friction during the reloading process, extending the life of your equipment and preventing damage.
- 12 Gauge Shotshells (spent): You'll need spent hulls to reload. Clean and inspect them carefully before reuse.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The reloading process involves several key steps. Accuracy and attention to detail at each stage are crucial for safe and reliable ammunition.
1. Case Preparation:
- Clean and Inspect: Thoroughly clean spent hulls, removing any debris or residue. Inspect for cracks or damage; discard any compromised hulls.
- De-prime: Remove the spent primers from the hulls using the appropriate tool on your reloading press.
- Resize: Use the hull sizing die to resize the hulls to ensure proper fit and function.
2. Primer Seating:
- Prime: Carefully seat the new primers using the primer seating tool on your press. Ensure the primers are seated firmly but not excessively.
3. Powder Charging:
- Measure: Use your powder measure to accurately dispense the recommended powder charge for your chosen load. Always double-check your powder charge before proceeding.
4. Wad Seating:
- Seat: Place the wad on top of the powder charge and seat it using the appropriate tool on your press.
5. Shot Charging:
- Measure: Use your shot meter to accurately dispense the desired shot weight.
6. Crimping:
- Crimp: Use the crimping tool on your press to crimp the shell closed, securing the shot and wad in place.
7. Final Inspection:
- Inspect: Carefully inspect the finished shotshells for any imperfections or inconsistencies. Discard any rounds that appear damaged or improperly loaded.
Safety Precautions:
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Never mix different types of powder or primers.
- Follow the reloading data precisely. Using incorrect powder charges can lead to dangerous over-pressure or under-pressure situations.
- Store your reloaded ammunition properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from open flames or sparks.
Conclusion:
Reloading your own 12 gauge shotshells is a skill that takes time and practice to master. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy the cost savings, customization options, and satisfaction of creating your own high-quality ammunition. Remember to consult reloading manuals and follow recommended loading data for your specific components. Safe and responsible reloading practices are paramount.
