The Shotgun Part V, Handloading your shells!

Published on December 29, 2017
Duration: 22:21

This video provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on handloading 12-gauge shotgun shells using a MEC 600 Jr. reloading machine. The instructor, with decades of reloading experience, demonstrates the process for creating light field loads suitable for target shooting and small game hunting. Key steps include hull preparation, priming, powder charging, wad and shot insertion, and crimping, with emphasis on using correct components and ensuring proper seating for reliable performance.

Quick Summary

Handloading 12-gauge shotgun shells for light field loads involves using specific components like Red Dot powder, Winchester 209 primers, AA 12 SL wads, and #7.5 shot. A MEC 600 Jr. press is used, with steps including de-priming, priming, powder charging, wad and shot insertion, and forming an eight-point star crimp. Always verify load data and ensure proper component compatibility for safe and effective ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction to Handloading Shotgun Shells
  2. 00:16MEC 600 Jr. Reloading Machine Overview
  3. 01:17Shotgun for Wife: Browning Micro Midas
  4. 01:41Loading 7.5, 1-Ounce Loads
  5. 02:01Ideal Gun for Youngsters: Light Loads & Recoil
  6. 02:44Browning Micro Midas Features: Stepped Rib
  7. 03:28Reloading Components Overview
  8. 03:38Reloading Labels and Boxes
  9. 04:08MEC Stacker Accessory
  10. 04:29Shot Selection: Extra-Hite #7.5 Shot
  11. 04:55Wad and Hull Bins
  12. 05:19Hull Serviceability and Cleaning
  13. 06:15Washing Plastic Target Shells
  14. 06:28Caution: Do Not Wash Filled Shells
  15. 07:31MEC Powder Funnel
  16. 07:59Powder Selection: Red Dot
  17. 08:52Primer Selection: Winchester 209
  18. 09:05Wad Selection: AA 12 SL
  19. 09:30Tool: 7/16 Wrench for Bushing Change
  20. 09:40Shot Charge Bar and Powder Bushing Explained
  21. 10:31Changing to 1-Ounce Shot Charge Bar
  22. 10:51Deriving Load Data: Alliant Reloading Guide
  23. 11:08Verifying Load Data: 12-Gauge, 2 3/4", 1-Ounce Shot
  24. 11:26Component Verification: Red Dot, Win 209, AA 12 SL Wads
  25. 11:54Powder Bushing Selection for Velocity
  26. 12:11MEC Powder Bushing Reference
  27. 12:23Target Powder Charge: 16-18 Grains
  28. 12:42Using Number 29 Bushing for 17.1 Grains
  29. 13:03Expected Velocity: High 1100s to Low 1200s FPS
  30. 13:18Marking Shot Bottle: #7.5 Magnum Shot
  31. 13:44Filling Shot Charge Bottle
  32. 14:33Seating the Funnel Correctly
  33. 14:48Safety and Consistency: Keeping Powder Bottle on Bench
  34. 15:12Preparing for Reloading Process
  35. 15:26Tour of the MEC Reloading Press
  36. 15:30Securing the Press to the Bench
  37. 16:09Quick-Release Clamp Installation
  38. 16:37Starting the Reloading Process
  39. 16:41Organizing Hands: Right for Hulls, Left for Wads
  40. 17:03Station One: De-priming and Resizing
  41. 17:30Lubricating Press Components with Grease
  42. 17:56Station Two: Priming
  43. 18:15Station Three: Powder Charging
  44. 18:34Wad Insertion and Shot Pouring
  45. 18:50Applying Pressure for Seating
  46. 19:15Station Four: Crimp Forming
  47. 19:48Inspecting the Finished Shell Crimp
  48. 20:30Reloading a Second Shell
  49. 21:00Conclusion: Finished Reloads
  50. 21:15Reloading Rate: 100-150 Rounds Per Hour
  51. 21:36Therapeutic Aspect of Reloading
  52. 22:07Safety and Enjoyment in Reloading

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended powder for light field loads in 12-gauge shotgun shells?

For light field loads and target shooting in 12-gauge shotgun shells, Red Dot powder is highly recommended. It offers reliable burning characteristics, good performance across various target shells, and maintains manageable pressures, making it a popular and effective choice for reloaders.

How do you ensure a proper crimp when handloading shotgun shells?

To ensure a proper crimp, use the designated crimping station on your reloading press. Always verify that the correct crimp star is installed. After completing the crimp, inspect the finished shell for a nice, smooth, and even eight-point star crimp. Minor adjustments can often be made on the press itself.

What are the key components needed for handloading 12-gauge shotgun shells?

Essential components for handloading 12-gauge shotgun shells include empty hulls, primers (e.g., Winchester 209), powder (e.g., Red Dot), wads (e.g., AA 12 SL), and shot (e.g., #7.5 or #8). You will also need a reloading press like the MEC 600 Jr. and potentially a powder funnel and shell stacker.

Can you wash used shotgun shells before reloading?

Generally, you should not wash used shotgun shells. Only one-piece all-plastic compression-formed target shells can be washed if very dirty, but they must be dried thoroughly. Washing other types of shells, especially those with brass-plated steel heads or paper base wads, can lead to rust or swelling and ruin the shell.

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