Question for you that reload shotguns

[Crazy.kayaker]

I'm playing around with the idea of reloading shotgun cases but before I go past the thinking part I want to know is it worth it. I'd be reloading mostly BB #2 and Buckshot and possibly slugs with the odd lighter load for fun. I have a Lee reloader and would that work or would I need a different press. I've looked around a little but can't find much on shotgun reloading but I'm thinking I'm just not looking in the right places. So tell me what you think. I have lots of time so I can reload as much as I want and when I want.

Thanks C.K

 

[tripalm]

If it's 12 gauge, the concensus is usually that it's just as cheap to buy, I was already set up so I'll keep loading with my MEC loader. Reloading never sves you money, you just get to shoot more for the same money

 

[Crazy.kayaker]

I know you spend the money you would have saved on more supplies and then shoot it all I'm just looking for something to kill time and enjoy my favorite sport....EXPENDING MUNITIONS...I'm wondering is there any special gear needed other then the DIE Set and the usual needed equipment for reloaded.

I am shooting 12 gauge but out of a 30-40+ year old full choke shotgun and I'd be reloading bismuth or other steel alternatives.

 

[sillymike]

If you cast your own slugs and shots, it's worth it (assuming that you need another hobby and have the time )

Personnaly, I only reloads slugs... I don't use enough bird shot to bother.

 

[Covey Ridge]

I'd be reloading mostly BB #2 and Buckshot and possibly slugs with the odd lighter load for fun. I have a Lee reloader and would that work or would I need a different press.

In my opinion, the lighter loads for fun would be the only ones worth while and the Lee loader would be fine. With target loads, it is easy to devope a fun load and components are easy to get. When you get into the slugs and the buck and bismuth and steel and alternatives, it starts to get complicated.

 

[Crazy.kayaker]

In my opinion, the lighter loads for fun would be the only ones worth while and the Lee loader would be fine. With target loads, it is easy to devope a fun load and components are easy to get. When you get into the slugs and the buck and bismuth and steel and alternatives, it starts to get complicated.

I'd start simple and move up as with anything learn the basic before you go for the complex stuff. I really only want the bismuth and steel alternatives as you can't shoot steel shot out of a 30+ year old full choke shotgun with out ruining the choke.

 

[tigrr]

Get a Lee Load All and have at er!! ht tp://www.leeprecision.com/graphics/shoppingcart/loadal1.jpg
They are cheap and create excellent ammo. I made over 2500 shells one winter. remove space from between t's and yes it is worth it. You can make them hot for long shots and mild for the don't want a black and blue shoulder tomorrow.

 

[Covey Ridge]

I'd start simple and move up as with anything learn the basic before you go for the complex stuff. I really only want the bismuth and steel alternatives as you can't shoot steel shot out of a 30+ year old full choke shotgun with out ruining the choke.

Well, I now load only target loads because that is where my best bang for my buck is and that is really the only place I burn an unusual amount of powder. I am already set up and except for a large quantity of lead got enough components for at least 10,000 loads. It takes no time to load for a whole weekend of fun. As far as all the alternative stuff goes, I am not convinced that I can load better, and I do not shoot enough of the alternative to make it worth while. Even on a season where I get out a lot buying factory premium does not seem all that expensive.

 

[TimberPig]

I know you spend the money you would have saved on more supplies and then shoot it all I'm just looking for something to kill time and enjoy my favorite sport....EXPENDING MUNITIONS...I'm wondering is there any special gear needed other then the DIE Set and the usual needed equipment for reloaded.

I am shooting 12 gauge but out of a 30-40+ year old full choke shotgun and I'd be reloading bismuth or other steel alternatives.

At one time, you could buy die sets for your single stage press, but they were not too popular, and are no longer made. Used sets are rare.

You will need to purchase a dedicated shotshell press, which varies from a $50 Lee Load-All, to a several hundred dollar progressive press.

As already mentioned though, for 12 ga, you won't save much if any, versus buying factory. The smaller gauges (esp. 28 and .410 bore) have more savings potential by loading your own.

 

[bigstickpilot]

presses

I started with a Lee Load-All and was quite happy with it, it made servicable shells, but somewhere around 1500 rounds I broke one of the plasticy parts. Lee shows it as a 20 cent part, plus $20 to ship to Canada. sigh.

Now I have a MEC 600 Jr and will likely never need another press. The shells look like commercial manufacture. It is adjustable every which way and you can quickly change it for different load recipes. Get one if you want to play around with variables. The Lee press is set up your fave and leave it there.

 

[iconfig]

im using a DL-266 made by pacific tool and die

hornady bought them out but they offer an upgraded version of the 266, the 366 i believe is the model number