Specific question regarding reloading 12 gauge slugs.

[ZombieHunter90]

So, I use Winchester AA hulls with WAA12r wads and IMR 7625 powder for my #00 buckshot loads. I've recently purchased a LEE 1oz slug mold, and I melted down and casted some slugs earlier today.

Current situation: the paperwork that comes with the LEE slug mold recommends using a WAA12 wad with the AA hulls, as compared to the WAA12r wads that I already have which are much shorter. I'm wondering if I can use the shorter (WAA12r) wads effectively instead of the WAA12. I've loaded up a few rounds with what I have, and when everything's loaded, there's a decent-sized open gap between the head of the slug and the crimp. Is that okay? I feel like there'll be less pressure in the cartridge if there is less mass within the hull, and I feel like the hull with still uncrimp just as easily upon being fired. And I've also loaded them with about 4 or 5 grains less powder than recommended just in case.

Here's a ****ty image of what I'm working with:

[pdq_wizzard]

So, I use Winchester AA hulls with WAA12r wads and IMR 7625 powder for my #00 buckshot loads. I've recently purchased a LEE 1oz slug mold, and I melted down and casted some slugs earlier today.

Current situation: the paperwork that comes with the LEE slug mold recommends using a WAA12 wad with the AA hulls, as compared to the WAA12r wads that I already have which are much shorter. I'm wondering if I can use the shorter (WAA12r) wads effectively instead of the WAA12. I've loaded up a few rounds with what I have, and when everything's loaded, there's a decent-sized open gap between the head of the slug and the crimp. Is that okay? I feel like there'll be less pressure in the cartridge if there is less mass within the hull, and I feel like the hull with still uncrimp just as easily upon being fired. And I've also loaded them with about 4 or 5 grains less powder than recommended just in case.

Here's a ****ty image of what I'm working with:

All the Shotgun loading I have done and all the reading I have done show there is NO WAY to know if you are pushing the max when reloading for shotgun (until it is too late). So my advice is load with what you can find in a Book or what Lee gave you, never load off of what people say on the web and never think if you drop the load a few grains you will be ok. presure is a funny thing, it can go up when you think it should go down. Just my .02 YMMV
good luck.

[ZombieHunter90]

Much thanks for your input!

[pdq_wizzard]

also that looks like the newer AA hull, make sure you keep an eye on the basewad, I have heard they can come loose. I now only load them twice and toss them, I am moving to Remington as they are still one-pice.

[ZombieHunter90]

Yeah I just nutted up and bought the WAA12 wads. hah.

I've been inspired.