Understanding Reloading Powder
Basic Chemistry and Function of Powder
At the heart of every fired shot lies the propellant, commonly known as reloading powder. It’s the energetic component responsible for transforming a small spark into a powerful explosion, sending the shot charge downrange with impressive velocity. Understanding the fundamental chemistry and function of this critical ingredient is paramount to achieving safe and consistent results. Reloading powder, typically smokeless powder, is composed of carefully formulated mixtures of chemicals, primarily nitrocellulose, designed to burn rapidly and predictably. When ignited by the primer, the powder undergoes rapid combustion, generating expanding gases that build pressure within the shell. This pressure forces the wad, along with the shot, down the barrel of the shotgun. The efficiency and characteristics of this process are heavily influenced by the specific type and properties of the reloading powder used.
Key Characteristics of Reloading Powder
Several characteristics define the performance of reloading powder. The burn rate is perhaps the most important. Powders are categorized based on how quickly they burn, ranging from fast to slow. A faster-burning powder generates pressure quickly, often suitable for lighter loads or shorter barrels. Slower-burning powders build pressure more gradually, offering advantages for heavier loads and maximizing performance in longer barrels. The granularity or form of the powder (flake, ball, cylindrical) also plays a role. Flake powders are often easy to meter, while ball powders may flow more consistently. Powder density, which refers to the mass per unit volume, also affects performance and how it fills the case. A denser powder allows for more propellant to be loaded within a given space, which is a critical consideration for maximizing performance. Finally, the stability of the powder, its resistance to degradation, and sensitivity to temperature and humidity fluctuations are essential considerations for long-term storage and reliable performance in varying conditions.
Powder Choices for Twelve Gauge Reloading
The market offers a wide range of reloading powders, each designed for specific applications and load types. It is crucial to understand the suitability of each powder, and the best way to learn is from those who reload regularly or reloading manuals. Several well-established brands have gained reputations for quality and reliability. Hodgdon, Alliant, and Accurate, are known for the diverse range of powders they manufacture. Hodgdon, for instance, offers powders such as Clays and Universal, popular choices for target loads due to their clean burning and consistent performance. Alliant provides powders like Red Dot, which is an economical choice for many light target loads. Accurate, on the other hand, boasts options such as Accurate No. 5 and Accurate 7, known for their versatility across various load weights.
Choosing the Right Powder
Choosing the right powder involves carefully balancing several factors. The intended use of the ammunition is the first consideration. Are you loading target loads for clay shooting, hunting loads for waterfowl, or something in between? The weight of the shot charge and the length of the shell also play a major role. Heavier shot charges typically require slower-burning powders to achieve optimal performance without exceeding pressure limits. The desired velocity and pressure are equally crucial. Faster velocities often necessitate more propellant, but this must be managed carefully to prevent dangerous pressure spikes. Availability of components, including the powder itself, is another practical factor. Certain powders may be more readily available than others, which can influence your choice. Finally, you must choose powder that is compatible with the rest of your equipment.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Reloading, while rewarding, demands unwavering attention to safety. Improper techniques can lead to catastrophic failures, causing serious injury or damage. Always prioritize safety, adhering to the following guidelines. Never deviate from established load data. Always consult reputable reloading manuals. Read load data carefully and thoroughly. Reloading manuals are the bible of reloading, and the loads and data there in are the first and only source for determining how to reload your twelve-gauge shells. The loads in the manuals will take into account the components, load weights, and, most importantly, the pressure of the loads.
Safe Handling and Storage
Proper handling and storage of reloading powder are paramount. Store powder in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and any potential sources of ignition. Always keep powder containers tightly sealed to prevent contamination or moisture absorption. Be vigilant about static electricity, which can ignite the powder. Avoid wearing synthetic clothing, and ground yourself before handling powder. In the event of a spill, carefully sweep the powder up with a non-sparking brush and dispose of it according to local regulations. Never mix different types of powders, as this can lead to unpredictable behavior and potentially dangerous pressure increases.
Protecting Yourself and Your Equipment
The equipment itself should be thoroughly inspected and regularly maintained. Before each reloading session, inspect all of your reloading equipment. Press, powder measure, scales, everything. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection for wear and tear are essential. Be aware of the possibility of accidental double charges, which occur when an excessive amount of powder is added to the case. This can create dangerous pressure. There are devices that are designed to make the process much safer, particularly when you are first learning the process. This is why, as a new reloader, it is critical to only perform one operation at a time and to constantly check your work to make sure you are doing it right. The importance of safety and diligent reloading practices cannot be overstated.
The Reloading Process
Gathering Components and Preparation
Gathering your equipment and preparing components are the first steps to a successful reload. You will need a reloading press, a powder scale, a powder measure, a case trimmer (if necessary), and a variety of other tools and components. The press is the heart of the reloading process, the part that will enable you to reload the shells in sequence. A powder scale provides accurate measurement of the powder charge, which is an absolutely essential step, and a powder measure delivers precise amounts of powder into the case. Components include empty cases, primers, wads, and shot. Case preparation includes cleaning the cases to remove any debris, sizing them to ensure proper dimensions, and priming them.
Powder Measurement and Dispensing
The next stage involves measuring and dispensing the correct amount of powder. Carefully follow the instructions for your powder measure, ensuring consistent dispensing. The scale should be calibrated accurately to weigh powder charges, and the powder measure will then be set to provide consistent charges. It is essential to check every charge to verify accuracy, especially when starting a new reloading process or switching components. Do not deviate from the load data. This is critically important. The load data will include a powder weight, and that number cannot be adjusted without consideration of safety and the potential for malfunction.
Loading the Shell and Press Operation
Once you are measuring and dispensing your powder charges, it’s time to assemble the rest of the shell and run it through the press. Seat the wad, which acts as a seal between the powder and the shot, protecting the barrel from contact with propellant gases. Then, add the correct weight of shot using a shot measure. Finally, crimp the shell using the appropriate crimp settings for your reloading equipment. Careful crimping ensures a secure seal and helps maintain consistent pressure during firing.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Even with meticulous preparation, problems can sometimes arise. Low velocity can result from insufficient powder, crimp issues, or improper wad selection. High pressure, on the other hand, is far more dangerous, and it can result from excessive powder charges, incorrect components, or obstructions in the barrel. If you suspect overpressure, immediately stop reloading and consult with experienced reloaders.
Inconsistent Performance
Inconsistent performance can be traced to powder metering issues, variations in components, or even changes in temperature or humidity. Address these problems by carefully checking all of your equipment, components, and processes. Other common problems can include stuck cases or crimp issues. These can often be resolved by adjusting your equipment settings, or by inspecting the shell for any problems. With consistent and careful troubleshooting, you can often identify and rectify the cause of the issue.
Resources and Further Study
Access to reliable and up-to-date information is critical for safe and successful reloading. Reputable sources for load data include manufacturer’s websites, reloading manuals from companies like Lyman, and the extensive libraries of reloading information online. Always check more than one source when looking up reloading data. When using any information obtained online, always double check it against a published reloading manual.
Tips for Finding More Information
Consider joining online reloading communities and participating in discussions with experienced reloaders. You can learn much from others and also get your questions answered by experienced reloaders. Remember that it’s a continuous learning process. Attending shooting and reloading courses can significantly enhance your knowledge and skills. Be receptive to new information and always prioritize safety.
Conclusion
Reloading twelve-gauge shells with the right reloading powder provides a rewarding experience. It gives you control over the performance of your ammunition, while also providing the means to customize your loads to your specific needs. Throughout this guide, we have explored the key considerations for selecting and using reloading powder, emphasizing the importance of safety, precision, and adherence to established guidelines. Reloading allows you to refine your skills and understand the art and science of shooting.
Prioritize safety in every step of the reloading process. Reloading allows you to create the perfect loads to suit your shooting needs. Continue to refine your skills. With diligent reloading practices, you can ensure that every shot you take is consistent and reliable. Continue to pursue knowledge. Keep learning, stay safe, and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own twelve gauge ammunition!
