Reloading your own 20 gauge ammunition offers significant advantages: cost savings, the ability to customize loads for specific purposes, and the satisfaction of crafting your own shells. However, safe and effective reloading requires precision and a thorough understanding of the process. This guide provides comprehensive information on 20 gauge reloading recipes, focusing on safety and accuracy. Always consult your reloading manual and adhere to its safety guidelines before beginning any reloading project. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional guidance.
Understanding the Components of a 20 Gauge Shell
Before diving into specific recipes, let's review the essential components of a 20 gauge shotshell:
- Hull: The plastic or paper casing that holds everything together. Choosing the right hull is crucial, as different manufacturers have varying specifications.
- Primer: Initiates the combustion process. Always use primers specifically designed for shotshells.
- Powder: The propellant that pushes the shot charge out of the barrel. Selecting the correct powder is paramount for safety and performance; incorrect powder charges can lead to dangerous overpressure.
- Wads: Separate the powder from the shot and provide a seal to prevent gas leakage. Different wad types are available, influencing shot patterns and felt recoil.
- Shot: The projectile, typically lead, steel, or other materials depending on the intended use (e.g., waterfowl hunting requires steel shot).
Popular 20 Gauge Reloading Recipes
The following recipes are examples and should be considered starting points only. Always double-check your chosen powder manufacturer's loading data for your specific components before beginning. Variations in hulls, primers, and powders will necessitate adjustments. These examples are for general purpose loads; target loads, hunting loads, and others will require different parameters.
Note: Data below is illustrative and should NOT be used without consulting your reloading manual. It's crucial to cross-reference your specific components with the manufacturer's loading data. This information is presented for educational purposes only.
Recipe 1: Light Target Load
- Hull: (Specify a common 20 gauge hull manufacturer and model here – e.g., Remington STS)
- Primer: (Specify a suitable shotshell primer here - e.g., Winchester 209)
- Powder: (Specify a suitable powder – e.g., Clays) (Insert specific weight from manufacturer's data here – e.g., 17.0 grains)
- Wad: (Specify a suitable wad – e.g., Downrange)
- Shot: (Specify shot type and weight – e.g., 7/8 oz. #8 lead shot)
Recipe 2: Medium Field Load
- Hull: (Specify a common 20 gauge hull manufacturer and model here – e.g., Federal Paper)
- Primer: (Specify a suitable shotshell primer here - e.g., CCI 209)
- Powder: (Specify a suitable powder – e.g., International Clays) (Insert specific weight from manufacturer's data here – e.g., 18.5 grains)
- Wad: (Specify a suitable wad – e.g., Remington Premier)
- Shot: (Specify shot type and weight – e.g., 1 oz. #6 lead shot)
Recipe 3: Heavy Upland Game Load
- Hull: (Specify a common 20 gauge hull manufacturer and model here – e.g., Winchester AA)
- Primer: (Specify a suitable shotshell primer here - e.g., Federal 209A)
- Powder: (Specify a suitable powder – e.g., Hodgdon Longshot) (Insert specific weight from manufacturer's data here – e.g., 21.0 grains)
- Wad: (Specify a suitable wad – e.g., BPI)
- Shot: (Specify shot type and weight – e.g., 1 1/8 oz. #4 lead shot)
Safety Precautions: The Cornerstone of Reloading
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Never mix different powders or components.
- Carefully follow the instructions in your reloading manual.
- Invest in a quality reloading press and accessories.
- Regularly inspect your equipment for wear and tear.
- Store your components in a cool, dry place.
- Dispose of spent primers and other hazardous materials properly.
This comprehensive guide provides a foundational understanding of 20 gauge reloading recipes. Remember that safety and accuracy are paramount. Consult your reloading manual diligently, and always prioritize safety throughout the entire process. Happy reloading!
