Shotshell buffer question

[Cactus]

Hi all,

I just loaded my first batch of .311 buckshot following the data that came with my load all from Lee. I used a 9rb 3x3 with no buffer per the data with an overshot card for a good crimp.

I was shocked that most of the crimps stayed closed and the ones that didn't got run through the final crimp station again before going to the range.

Everything shot very well and I was pleased with the outcome.

What is the advantage of adding buffer to the load? Does it do anything other than help keep the shot in place?

Cactus

 

[ben hunchak]

The purpose of shot buffer is/was to protect shot from damage on ignition and on it's trip down the barrel. When the shells ignites, the soft shot tends to mash together and loose some of it's roundness, which adversely affects your pattern. The pellets jostle each other on the trip down the barrel as well and the buffer is supposed to cushion the shot. When steel shot first came out, some manufacturers buffered it to prevent the shot from "Balling", which did happen if the shot rusted or oxidized and would form a clump and would sometimes go down range that way. They seem to have the steel shot prob. solved by better sealing the shells and treating the shot. Note that the use of buffer can and does raise pressures somewhat.