Finding the right bushing for your MEC reloading press and Alliant powder can feel like navigating a maze. This guide will demystify the process, providing you with a clear understanding of MEC bushing charts, how to use them effectively, and crucial tips for safe and accurate reloading.
Understanding MEC Bushing Charts and their Importance
MEC bushing charts are essential tools for anyone using a MEC progressive reloading press. These charts correlate specific bushings to various shotgun shell gauges (12 gauge, 20 gauge, etc.) and Alliant powder types, providing the recommended bushing size for achieving the desired powder charge weight. Accurate powder charges are paramount for safe and consistent shot patterns, ensuring reliable performance and preventing dangerous over- or under-charges. Using the wrong bushing can lead to significant variations in powder charge, impacting both safety and shot performance.
Deciphering the MEC Bushing Chart for Alliant Powders
Unfortunately, a single, universally accessible MEC bushing chart for all Alliant powders doesn't exist. MEC provides charts specific to their presses and often in conjunction with powder manufacturers’ load data. This means you'll need to consult multiple resources:
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Your MEC Reloading Press Manual: This is your primary source. It will likely contain a general bushing chart, and may include specific data for some popular Alliant powders.
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Alliant Powder's Website and Load Data: Alliant publishes extensive reloading data, including recommendations for various shotgun shells and their powders. Look for load data specific to your chosen Alliant powder, shell type, and shot weight. This data will often include recommended powder charge weights.
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Third-Party Reloading Manuals: Many reloading manuals include comprehensive load data, sometimes including bushing size suggestions for certain presses, including MEC. However, always double-check against your MEC manual and Alliant's load data.
How to Use the MEC Bushing Chart and Alliant Powder Data Together
Here's a step-by-step guide to determine the correct bushing:
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Identify your Alliant Powder: Know precisely which powder you're using (e.g., Alliant Steel, Alliant Unique, etc.).
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Determine your Shell Gauge and Shot Weight: This information is crucial for selecting the appropriate load data.
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Consult Alliant's Load Data: Find the recommended powder charge weight for your chosen powder, shell gauge, and shot weight.
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Cross-reference with your MEC Bushing Chart: Use the charge weight from Alliant's data to find the corresponding bushing size in your MEC chart. If a direct match isn't available, choose the closest bushing size, erring on the side of caution (slightly undercharged is safer than overcharged).
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Always Double-Check: Before proceeding, carefully weigh your powder charges to ensure accuracy. This is the only way to verify your bushing selection is correct. Never rely solely on the bushing; always weigh your powder!
Safety Precautions: The Most Crucial Step
- Never deviate from published load data. Use only data provided by reputable sources like Alliant or established reloading manuals.
- Always weigh your powder charges. Don't rely on bushings alone. Variations in powder consistency can occur.
- Start low and work up. If you're unsure, begin with a lower charge weight and gradually increase until you reach the desired level.
- Clean your press regularly. A clean press ensures accurate powder drops.
- Consult experienced reloaders. If you're new to reloading, seek guidance from experienced individuals or attend a reloading class.
By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you'll gain confidence in using your MEC reloading press with Alliant powders. Remember, accuracy and safety are paramount in reloading. Improper techniques can lead to dangerous situations. Always prioritize safety and consult multiple sources before proceeding.
