Safety First: Essential Considerations in 20 Gauge Reloading
WARNING
This article provides informational content and is not a substitute for the guidance of qualified professionals or published reloading manuals. Always follow the instructions and guidelines provided by reputable reloading manuals. Reloading involves inherent risks, and readers assume full responsibility for their actions.
Safety glasses are non-negotiable. Protect your eyes from flying debris and potential primer eruptions. Hearing protection, whether ear muffs or plugs, is equally crucial to safeguard your hearing from the loud noise of a shotgun discharge. Gloves are optional, but can enhance grip and provide a measure of protection when handling powders and primers.
A clean and organized workspace is a fundamental requirement. A cluttered bench or desk increases the risk of errors and accidents. Ensure ample lighting and dedicate a specific area solely for reloading activities. Keep your workspace free from distractions and clearly labeled.
Proper storage is essential for all reloading components. Store powders and primers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Ensure containers are properly sealed and clearly labeled. Never store powders and primers together. Consider investing in fire-resistant containers.
Understand your firearm’s specifications and limitations. Not all shotguns are created equal, and you need to know the pressure ratings and capabilities of your specific shotgun model. Consult the owner’s manual and research the firearm thoroughly. Never exceed the maximum load data recommendations.
Always, and we reiterate, *always* adhere strictly to the load data published in reputable reloading manuals, such as those from Lyman, Hodgdon, or Alliant. These manuals provide detailed instructions on powder charges, primer types, wad types, and shot weights for various hulls and components. Never substitute components or deviate from the recommended data without careful research and consultation. Start with the minimum recommended powder charge and work your way up, cautiously, while monitoring for signs of excessive pressure.
The Elements of Assembling a Twenty Gauge Round
The foundation of any shotshell is the hull, or case. Various types of hulls exist, each with its own characteristics and suitability for reloading. You’ll encounter hulls from manufacturers like Remington, Winchester, and Federal, among others. Inspect your hulls meticulously before each reload. Check for any damage, such as splits, tears, or excessive wear. Discard any hulls that show signs of degradation. Furthermore, be aware of the maximum number of times a specific hull can be reloaded. Repeated reloading can weaken the hull. You should also measure the hull length to ensure it fits your chamber. Hulls can be cleaned to remove any dirt and debris. Additionally, resizing will usually be required to ensure a good fit for your new components.
Primers are the igniters. They provide the initial spark that sets off the powder. Several types of primers exist for shotshells, and choosing the right one is critical. The primer’s size, sensitivity, and composition all impact the burn rate and overall performance of the load. Ensure you match the primer type to the powder you are using, according to the reloading manual. Incorrect primer selection can lead to inconsistent ignition or increased pressure. Handle primers with care, as they are sensitive to impact and heat.
Powder, the fuel, is the heart of the propellant system. Various powders are specifically designed for use in 20 gauge shotshells. Powder burn rates play a significant role in performance and selecting the proper powder is critical. Choosing the wrong powder can lead to unsafe pressures or suboptimal performance. Explore options from brands like Alliant and Hodgdon. When choosing a powder, consider the type of shooting you’ll be doing. Fast-burning powders are often preferred for lighter loads and closer ranges, while slower-burning powders work well with heavier loads and longer distances. Proper storage is paramount; store powder in a cool, dry place, away from heat and ignition sources.
Wads serve as the interface between the powder and the shot. These plastic or fiber cups hold the shot and provide a gas seal within the barrel. Different wad designs are available, each optimized for different shot sizes, hull types, and performance characteristics. Consider choosing wads that are designed to work well with your hull and the shot size you intend to use.
The payload is the shot itself. Choose your shot based on your target. The size and composition of the shot will impact pattern density, range, and effectiveness. You can choose from lead, steel, or other non-toxic alternatives, such as bismuth, depending on your purpose. Pay attention to the weight of shot and the pattern density you want to achieve.
Always, without fail, cross-reference all your load data. Consult multiple reloading manuals from trusted sources such as Lyman, Hodgdon, and Alliant. Verify the data for your specific hull type, primer, powder, wad, and shot weight. The more you consult sources and cross-reference the data, the better chance you have of crafting a safe and reliable load.
The Tools of the Trade: Essential Equipment for 20 Gauge Reloading
Equipping your reloading bench with the right tools is essential for efficiency, precision, and safety.
The reloading press is the central hub. It performs multiple functions, from resizing the hull to seating the primer and crimping the loaded shell. You can choose between single-stage and progressive presses. Single-stage presses perform one operation per stroke, making them ideal for beginners. Progressive presses perform multiple operations simultaneously, increasing speed and efficiency.
Reloading dies perform several essential functions. Dies are designed for resizing the hull, seating the primer, metering powder, seating the wad, and crimping the finished round. Make sure your dies are specifically designed for the 20 gauge.
Precise measurement is fundamental. You’ll need scales, both digital and balance beam, and accurate powder measuring devices. Using a reliable scale to measure your powder charges is essential for consistent performance and safety.
Other tools will come in handy. A hull trimmer is useful for ensuring your hulls are the correct length. A case tumbler helps remove debris, a loading block keeps shells organized, and calipers will confirm hull dimensions.
Illustrative 20 Gauge Recipes – Examples and Guidance
Let’s emphasize this again: *Always* refer to your reloading manual, starting with the minimum powder charge. These are examples and should be treated as such. Component variations, environmental factors, and inconsistencies in your equipment can affect results. Never assume anything; always double-check your measurements and adhere strictly to the recommended load data.
Important Safety Reminder
Always double-check your components against the data in a reliable reloading manual. Always start with the minimum recommended powder charge and work up in small increments.
Example Recipe: Clay Target Load
Hull: Remington Gun Club.
Primer: Federal 209A.
Powder: Hodgdon Clays (Consult manual for specific charge, *starting at the minimum*).
Wad: Claybuster CB1078-20.
Shot: 7/8 ounce of #8 lead shot.
Crimp: Six-point star crimp.
Approximate Velocity: Consult your reloading manual; this combination will likely be in the 1200 fps range.
Intended Use: Sporting clays and target shooting.
Safety Notes: Always follow all the procedures outlined in your manual. This recipe is just an example; you must consult and adhere to a reloading manual for appropriate powder charges.
Example Recipe: Hunting Load
Hull: Winchester AA.
Primer: Winchester 209.
Powder: Alliant Steel (Consult manual for specific charge, *starting at the minimum*).
Wad: Winchester WAA20F1.
Shot: 1 ounce of #5 lead shot.
Crimp: Six-point star crimp.
Approximate Velocity: Consult your reloading manual; this combination will likely be in the 1300 fps range.
Intended Use: Upland bird hunting.
Safety Notes: Always follow the procedures outlined in your reloading manual. Never exceed the recommended maximum powder charges.
Example Recipe: Light Field Load
Hull: Federal Top Gun.
Primer: Cheddite CX2000.
Powder: Hodgdon Universal (Consult manual for specific charge, *starting at the minimum*).
Wad: Downrange DRA-20.
Shot: 3/4 ounce of #8 lead shot.
Crimp: Six-point star crimp.
Approximate Velocity: Consult your reloading manual; this combination will likely be in the 1200 fps range.
Intended Use: Skeet and light field loads.
Safety Notes: Carefully weigh all components. Always consult your reloading manual and begin with the minimum powder charge.
Reloading Process – A Step-by-Step Guide
The process involves a series of steps.
Begin by preparing the hull. Size the hull to return it to its original dimensions. Deprime the hull to remove the spent primer, using the depriming die.
Carefully measure and drop the powder charge into the hull. Precisely measured powder charges are crucial for both performance and safety.
Seat the wad into the hull. The wad must be seated to the correct depth for the proper gas seal and to accommodate the shot column.
Add the shot to the wad. Ensure the shot is level. This involves carefully pouring the shot into the wad, making sure the shot column is uniform.
Crimp the shell. The crimp is essential for retaining the shot and powder and ensuring the shell functions properly.
Perform a final inspection. Examine the loaded shell for any imperfections, such as bulged hulls or inconsistent crimps. Ensure the crimp is correct and the shell is properly sealed.
Addressing Common Reloading Challenges
Even with careful attention to detail, you might encounter issues.
Failure to feed can result from improper crimps, hull damage, or other factors. Inspect your shells and components carefully to identify the cause.
Poor crimps can affect accuracy and performance. Adjust your crimping dies and double-check your hull length.
Inconsistent velocity can arise from various factors, including incorrect powder charges, primer issues, and wad selection. Ensure that all components are consistent, and double-check your powder measurements.
Bulged hulls can result from excessive powder charges, incorrect wad selection, or damaged hulls. Reduce your powder charge and check your components.
Always, always stop reloading if you encounter issues or are uncertain about the process.
Resources and Further Exploration
Several resources will aid your journey.
Lyman, Hodgdon, and Alliant, among others, are the leading providers of reloading manuals. These manuals contain detailed load data and instructions.
Numerous online resources are available, including forums and websites dedicated to reloading. Ensure these sources are reputable and provide accurate data.
Always verify information from multiple sources, compare data, and seek advice from experienced reloaders.
In Conclusion
Reloading *20 Gauge Reloading Recipes* offers the potential to save money, customize your loads, and enhance your shooting experience. By carefully following the proper procedures and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy the rewarding experience of crafting your own ammunition.
Remember, safety is paramount. Always consult reputable reloading manuals, start with the minimum powder charge, and never deviate from the recommended guidelines.
Ready to embark on this exciting journey?
