12 gauge reloading

[pshaw54]

anybody have any input on reloading 12 gauge ammo? i purchased a mec press, hulls, shot, and wads. i've never done 12 gauge before ( done lots of 9mm, .38 spl, 44 mag, ) so i do have experience in reloading. any advice on good literature, web sites...
side question on primers; whats the difference and what type is used for what application? thanks!

[mike100]

I'm just about to get into shotshell reloading myself. There is a lot of good video on you-tube. Totally makes sense, especially if you load metallic cartridges already.

linky video 1
link 2

I think most common shotshell gauges use the same primer..just different brands. The hull and wad type make a substatial difference to internal volume, so recipes need to be followed for each brand combination. Lots of load info online.

[scratch]

I reload 12 ga on a mec 9000 for cowboy action shooting. It allows me to load a light load for competion. One thing with shotgun reloading, you should follow the recipes all the powder mfg print or have online.


Powder...You may already have an appropriate powder if your reloading 9's and 38's. I use American Select; have used Clays before.

Primers...They are standardized on 209's. I use Wolf, have had only one not go bang in over 1,000 rounds. I hear Cheddites are good too.

Hulls...I use Winchester AA's for my double. The ribbed hulls don't fall out of my double as easily as the AA's.

Wads....I use Claybusters, cheaper than Winchester. Just make sure to use the correct wad for the shot weight you want.

Shot....Since I am only hitting or knocking down steel at close ranges, I use reclaimed shot from a trap range.

Hope this helps...YMMV

[scratch]

One other thing...here is a cost calculator:

http://10xshooters.com/calculators/ShotshellReloadingCost/