Reloading your own 12 gauge shotgun shells can be a rewarding experience, offering significant cost savings and the ability to tailor your ammunition to specific needs. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply interested in a practical skill, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, safety precautions, and considerations for successful 12 gauge shotgun shell reloading.
Why Reload 12 Gauge Shells?
The advantages of reloading your own 12 gauge ammunition are compelling:
- Cost Savings: Factory-loaded shells can be expensive, especially in bulk. Reloading drastically reduces the per-shell cost, making it a more economical option for high-volume shooters.
- Customization: Reloading allows you to experiment with different shot types, powder charges, and wad configurations to optimize performance for your specific firearm and shooting style. This is crucial for hunting different game or achieving optimal accuracy in competition.
- Availability: During periods of high demand or limited supply, reloading ensures you always have the ammunition you need.
- Improved Consistency: Handloading can potentially lead to more consistent shot patterns and velocity compared to factory loads, though this requires careful attention to detail and precise measurement.
Essential Equipment for 12 Gauge Shell Reloading
Before you begin, you'll need the necessary equipment. This includes:
- Reloading Press: A good quality press is vital for consistent and safe reloading. Consider your budget and reloading volume when choosing a press. Single-stage presses are ideal for beginners, while progressive presses are more efficient for high-volume reloading.
- Powder Measure: Accurate powder measurement is crucial for safety and consistent performance. Choose a powder measure with the appropriate capacity for your chosen powder.
- Scale: A reliable scale is essential for verifying powder charges, ensuring consistent and safe loads. A digital scale provides greater precision.
- Dies: These are specific to 12 gauge shells and include resizing dies, powder dies, and crimp dies.
- Wads: Wads are crucial for sealing the shot and providing proper crimping. Choose wads that are compatible with your chosen shot size and powder.
- Shot: Select shot sizes appropriate for your intended use. Different shot sizes are best suited for different game and distances.
- Shot Cups/Shot Holders: These are often integral to the wad, helping to maintain a consistent shot distribution.
- Primers: 12 gauge shotgun primers are specifically designed for this cartridge. Always handle primers carefully.
- Case Lube: Reduces friction during resizing, protecting your press and dies.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reloading 12 Gauge Shells
Disclaimer: Reloading ammunition can be dangerous if not performed correctly. Always follow safety precautions and consult reloading manuals for specific instructions related to your chosen components.
- Case Preparation: Clean and inspect your spent 12 gauge hulls. Remove any debris or deformed areas. Resize the hulls using the appropriate resizing die on your press.
- Primer Seating: Carefully seat the primers using the primer seating die on your press. Ensure proper seating to prevent misfires.
- Powder Charging: Measure and dispense the correct amount of powder using your powder measure and scale. Double-check your powder charge to ensure accuracy.
- Wad Seating: Seat the wads using the appropriate die on your press, ensuring a proper seal.
- Shot Charging: Add the correct amount of shot. This may involve using a shot measure or manually filling the shot cup.
- Crimping: Crimp the shell using the crimping die, ensuring a secure seal.
Safety Precautions: The Paramount Importance of Safety
- Consult Reloading Manuals: Always consult reloading manuals specific to your chosen components before beginning. These manuals provide crucial information on safe loading data.
- Proper Ventilation: Reload in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of powder dust.
- Eye and Ear Protection: Always wear eye and ear protection while reloading.
- Static Electricity: Be mindful of static electricity, as it can cause powder to ignite unexpectedly. Ground yourself and your equipment.
- Powder Handling: Handle powder carefully, avoiding spills and static discharge.
- Never Mix Components: Never mix components from different manufacturers without consulting reloading manuals.
- Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and organized reloading area to reduce the risk of accidents.
Conclusion
Reloading 12 gauge shotgun shells provides significant advantages to both experienced and new shooters. However, remember that safety is paramount. By following these guidelines, using quality equipment, and consulting reliable reloading manuals, you can confidently reload your own 12 gauge shells, enjoying the cost savings and customization this process offers. Always prioritize safety, and your reloading experience will be both fulfilling and safe.
