Understanding Powder for 20 Gauge Reloading
Types of Powder
The 20-gauge shotgun occupies a unique space in the world of firearms. Favored by hunters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and those seeking a versatile gauge, it delivers impressive performance in a compact and manageable package. Whether you’re pursuing upland birds, busting clays on a sunny afternoon, or simply enjoy the art of shooting, reloading your own 20-gauge shells presents a compelling opportunity. It allows for customization, cost savings, and a deeper appreciation for the craft of shooting. However, a critical component in successful 20-gauge reloading is selecting the right powder. This guide delves into the realm of best powder for 20 gauge reloading, helping you navigate the complexities and find the optimal choices for your specific needs and shooting style.
At the heart of it all is the powder. It is the propellant, the key element responsible for generating the energy needed to launch the shot downrange. Comprehending the nuances of different powder types and their impact on performance is paramount to achieving the desired results, and most importantly, ensuring safety.
While a vast array of powders exists, the realm of shotshell reloading, especially in the 20-gauge, typically revolves around smokeless powders. These powders are formulated with specific burn rates and characteristics to deliver consistent performance under pressure. Several different types of smokeless powders, designed for specific applications, can be found.
The powder burns rapidly within the cartridge, creating expanding gases. These gases exert pressure against the shot and wad, forcing them down the barrel. The rate at which the powder burns and the amount of pressure it generates directly influence the velocity of the shot and the overall performance of the load.
When selecting the best powder for 20 gauge reloading, several factors must be considered. These include the desired shot velocity, the weight of the shot charge, the wad type, and of course, the intended purpose. The goal is to match the powder’s characteristics to the specific requirements of the load.
Key Considerations
Beyond the basic types, several key factors deserve your utmost attention:
Pressure is king. Safety is the top priority. Shotshells are designed with pressure limits, and exceeding those limits is extremely dangerous. Always consult reliable loading data, such as those provided by powder manufacturers, and carefully adhere to the specified pressure limits for your 20-gauge shells. The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) sets industry standards for pressure. Staying within these guidelines is paramount for ensuring the safety of yourself, your firearm, and anyone nearby.
Burn rate refers to how quickly the powder burns. Powders are categorized by their burn rate, ranging from fast to slow. Faster-burning powders generate pressure more quickly, while slower-burning powders generate pressure more gradually. The choice of burn rate impacts the velocity, recoil, and overall performance of the load. In 20-gauge reloading, you’ll often encounter medium to slow-burning powders that offer a balance between velocity and manageable recoil.
Reliable load data is your compass. Never rely on guesswork or hearsay. Always use load data from reputable sources, such as established reloading manuals from powder manufacturers like Hodgdon or Alliant. These manuals provide specific instructions for various shot weights, wad types, and powder charges. Carefully measure powder charges and adhere to the data.
Safety first, safety always. Reloading is a rewarding hobby, but it is also a responsibility. Always wear eye protection when reloading and shooting. Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to powder and primer fumes. Always handle powders and primers with care, and store them safely away from heat, sparks, and children. If you are new to reloading, consider taking a certified reloading course to learn the fundamentals of safe and effective practices.
Top Powder Choices for 20 Gauge Reloading
Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals, let’s look at some of the best powder for 20 gauge reloading. These are powders known for their performance, consistency, and popularity among reloaders.
Alliant 20/28
Alliant 20/28 is a classic and highly regarded choice among reloaders. This powder is widely praised for its excellent performance in 20-gauge loads, particularly in field loads. It burns cleanly, leading to less residue buildup in your shotgun. It offers consistent performance across a range of shot weights, making it a versatile option.
The use cases for 20/28 are diverse, but it excels in medium to heavy game loads, making it a favored option for hunting situations. When using Alliant 20/28, adhere to load data. The load data provides optimal recipes for specific shot weights, and wad combinations. This ensures a balanced load that delivers both good velocity and a pattern. Remember to start with a low charge and gradually increase it as you get familiar with the results and your specific shotgun.
Hodgdon Universal Clays
Hodgdon Universal Clays presents another excellent option. Known for its versatility and ease of use, this powder is a favorite among reloaders. Its balanced burn rate makes it suitable for various loads, whether you’re targeting clay targets or hunting small game.
Hodgdon Universal Clays meters very well, ensuring accurate and consistent powder charges. The performance of this powder is known to be reliable and accurate. This makes it a great choice for the experienced reloader and those who are starting. Many load recipes are available for this powder, allowing reloaders to customize their loads to their specific needs. Proper wad selection is essential.
Hodgdon Longshot
For those seeking high-performance loads, Hodgdon Longshot is a go-to choice. It is a slower-burning powder, providing higher velocities, and is well-suited for heavier shot charges. Longshot delivers excellent performance in 20-gauge loads, and is a great choice for both hunting and clay shooting.
This powder is a great option for those looking to maximize their 20-gauge performance. When reloading with Longshot, it is essential to consult load data and stay within the recommended charge weights. It is often favored for magnum-style loads, delivering impressive downrange performance.
Other Notable Powders
While the powders mentioned above are very popular and successful, the world of shotshell reloading offers many other possibilities:
Titewad is another popular choice, known for its fast-burning characteristics, making it suitable for lighter loads and sporting clays.
International Clays offers versatility and good performance for various applications.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Powder
Selecting the right powder is a balancing act. Here are key factors:
Intended Use
The intended purpose is the primary driver of your powder choice. For hunting, where longer ranges and effective knockdown power are crucial, you might lean towards powders that deliver higher velocities and consistent patterns. You need a load that provides the needed performance.
For sporting clays or other target shooting disciplines, factors like recoil and pattern density become more important. You might prioritize powders that offer a smooth recoil impulse and consistent patterns at the ranges you’ll be shooting.
Shot Weight and Velocity
The weight of the shot (measured in ounces) and the desired velocity (measured in feet per second) are directly related. Heavier shot charges generally require slower-burning powders to achieve the desired velocity safely. Lighter shot charges can often benefit from faster-burning powders, which offer good performance without excessive recoil.
Wad Selection
The wad serves as a crucial component of the shotshell. It cradles the shot, seals the barrel, and protects the shot from direct contact with the bore. The wad interacts with the powder gases, influencing the shot pattern. It’s essential to select wads compatible with the chosen powder, shot weight, and hull type. Using incompatible wads can lead to poor performance, erratic patterns, or even dangerous pressure spikes. Always refer to load data for proper wad specifications.
Availability and Price
Powder availability and price are practical considerations. Some powders may be readily available at your local reloading supply store, while others might require more searching. Compare prices among different powders and consider the cost-per-load to find the option that fits your budget and needs.
Reloading Tips & Best Practices
Reloading 20-gauge shells is a journey of precision and responsibility. Here are key practices:
Using Reloading Data
This cannot be stressed enough: Always use reliable reloading data from trusted sources. Stick to published load data from powder manufacturers or reputable reloading manuals. Never deviate significantly from the recommended powder charges, wad types, or other specifications. Overly aggressive loading can create high pressures and lead to catastrophic failure of the shotgun.
When starting a new load, begin with the minimum powder charge specified in the load data and carefully observe the results. Gradually increase the powder charge, in small increments, while watching for pressure signs.
Proper Equipment
Invest in quality reloading equipment. You’ll need a powder scale to accurately weigh powder charges, a powder measure to dispense powder, a wad seating tool to properly seat the wad, and a crimper to close the shell. Precision is critical; a properly calibrated scale and consistent measuring methods are vital.
Safety Checks
Double-check every step. Ensure you’ve correctly identified the powder, the shot weight, and the wad. When loading shells, always double-check that you have the correct charge and that it’s the right wad being used.
Storage
Always store powders and primers in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and potential ignition sources. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Conclusion
Choosing the best powder for 20 gauge reloading is a critical decision that influences both performance and safety. By understanding the different powder types, considering your intended use, and carefully adhering to safe reloading practices, you can customize your 20-gauge loads to meet your shooting needs. Whether you’re seeking maximum velocity for hunting or consistent patterns for clays, the world of 20-gauge reloading offers endless possibilities. Research, experiment, and refine your loads to achieve the perfect balance of performance, accuracy, and enjoyment.
Resources
Hodgdon Reloading Data Center
Alliant Powder Website
Lyman Shotshell Reloading Handbook
Local reloading supply stores
The goal of this guide has been to empower you with the knowledge to select the best powder and safely reload your own 20-gauge shells. Happy shooting and safe reloading!
