Shotgun loads 101. Oct 28, 2025 · Welcome to the wide world of shotgun ammunition! If you’re unfamiliar with shot sizes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed while you’re trying to pick out the right shells for hunting or home defense. Nowadays, the base of the shell is commonly made from brass, with the remainder of the composed of plastic. We'll display standard charts for a classic grid look, or select "Visualize" for an enhanced visualization of the data. Best of all, most experienced shooters are willing to help novices, so ask a lot of questions from them when you see them shooting at your local club. Again, ensure proper orientation with the brass end facing forward. Some people reload shotgun shells because they […] May 4, 2024 · Load the Chamber: Insert a shell into the open chamber and close the action. Shells can range in length from 1 3/4 to 3 1/2inches and in payload weight from 3/8 ounce to 2 1/2 ounces. At the same time, self-defense or tactical ammo usually uses a reduced powder charge to Jan 16, 2018 · A variety of options are available for those who reload shotgun shells. Discover Which Classic Guns Deliver The Best Thrills Now! Oct 15, 2025 · Learn how to read the information on boxes of shotgun shells to buy what you need and avoid what you don’t. Top Shot Champion Chris Cheng demonstrates for beginners the difference between several common shotgun loads. I have been reading about how black powder loads are at a slower velocity than modern shotshells but I don't see how that is possible with reasonable modern loads is it true? Example, lets take two 28ga lead load: Win. Understand how shotguns work and master your shooting skills. Learn how to load a shotgun with ease. They’re available in single and double-barrel models with the two barrels situated either side-by-side or over-under. Guns 101 provides step-by-step guidance for mastering the loading process. “metallic cartridges”), which conceal only their propellant, the numerous components of shotshells are largely hidden from view—here, the adage “out of sight, out of mind” certainly applies. Bruce, can you tell us what makes Remington, Federal, and Winchester more acceptable than all of the dozen or more other manufacturers of quality shotgun ammunition? For those who have difficulty with learning the correct lead to Feb 15, 2024 · We go over the best in-stock 12ga and 20ga buckshot, birdshot, and slug shotgun ammo. 410 bore, which is the smallest of the five. Read now! Reloading your own shotgun shells is a time-honored method of reducing the cost of shooting. AA-HS 2drams, 1200fps, 3/4oz of #9, Win. It offers Belgian-made craftsmanship, engraved steel and finely cut checkered walnut at a low price few over and unders can match. So we give you the tips and tricks to get it done! 12 Shotgun Ballistics Charts To begin, start with selecting your gauge of ammunition. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below. Patterning a shotgun is a very important element in finding out how the shot charge is being affected by the load and choke. Apr 7, 2025 · In this Shotgun Shells Explained article, we cover shotgun gauges, shell lengths, and shot types to help you choose the right shotgun ammo to fit your needs. Defensive ammo invariably uses large-diameter buckshot or slugs to provide strong penetration capable of defeating assailants. eq. cartridge, forcing the shot out of the cartridge and down the barrel. Seems obvious, right? But really…just because you are good at shooting a handgun or rifle does not necessarily mean shooting a shotgun will be a breeze for you. Jun 9, 2023 · Are you a shotgun enthusiast looking to delve into the world of shotshell reloading? Reloading your own shotgun shells not only allows for cost savings but also provides customization options for optimal performance. In the base of the shell Understanding the distinct shotgun ammo types will help you choose the right shotshell for shooting, defensive or sporting success. Mar 16, 2020 · Taking the time to pattern your shotgun and turkey load could mean the difference between tagging out or eating tag soup. Jan 6, 2024 · Knowing your shotgun's patterning is the most important thing you can do with a shotgun. Like you, there was a time when I was first entering the firearms world and looked at shotgun ammo and said, “WTH Oct 12, 2022 · Between different projectile styles and shell sizes, 12-gauge ammo has many different forms, here's how to pick the right load for the job. Aug 17, 2013 · 8. Included are three basic types of shotgun shotgun loads (slugs, buckshot, and birdshot): Basics Shotgun shells are the type of ammunition fired by a shotgun. Jul 13, 2020 · The pump-action shotgun is one of the most versatile and powerful weapons that Americans can enjoy. Jul 3, 2023 · Fix your shotgun's failure to eject with our expert guide. If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ. While you are waiting in line for the gun shop's meager weekly haul of new ammunition, other enterprising shooting enthusiasts are already filling their cart with wads, primers, and hulls. It is a popular choice among shotgun enthusiasts for its quality craftsmanship and handling characteristics. Here are some tips for proper shotgun training. Is this a fact or is he misinformed, (probably very likely, knowing him). I will also share plenty of tips & tricks and a few warnings. Load the Magazine: Insert shotgun shells into the magazine tube or detachable box magazine. Ammo For Beginners: Shotshell Basics Iraqveteran8888 2. Advertisement — Continue Reading Below What’s the best all-around shotgun powder on the market? The experts at Powder Valley break down the top shotgun smokeless powder by Hodgdon, Alliant, and more. Jan 21, 2020 · Want to save money and shoot more accurately? Reloading your own ammo is the key! We go over all the steps of reloading plus sample setups for all budgets. Understanding how to load a shotgun safely and effectively is a fundamental skill for any responsible gun owner or enthusiast. May 11, 2020 · The shotgun is the most versatile of all firearms. Once you’ve read this easy Dec 7, 2022 · We cover the 3 main types of shotgun shells so you can choose ammo for target, hunting, and self-defense. Using the Lee Load-All II, I'm showing you how I do my reloading, for shotgun shells. Your right-hand thumb should find the brass end of the shotgun shell. He inferred that steel shot would make his guns explode! I doubt any of his guns are older than ~1960's. Don't buy a box until you read this guide! The 42 Takedown rimfire-shotgun combo breaks down with simple push of one button and includes an Uncle Mike’s Go Bag so you can easily transport it anywhere. Fortunately, shot sizes only appear confusing at first glance. Historically, paper and brass shells were the norm. Shot size comparisons of different shotgun pellets or shot sizes from #12 birdshot to 000 buckshot for hunting, upland birds, waterfowl, and turkeys. How to Load a Shotgun: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners Shotguns are popular firearms used for various purposes, such as hunting, clay shooting (trap, skeet, sporting clays, 3-gun), and home defense. We also include updated articles to create a catalogue of important ammunition information. To perform a strong-hand dual load, start with the bottom of the shotgun caddy to pull two shells off together. Essentially an audio version of chapter 2 of a reloading manual that explains each component and how it affects Dec 22, 2018 · Chambered for 2¾- and 3-inch shells and equipped with Invector Plus chokes, the Winchester Select 101 is a versatile shotgun for upland bird hunting and target shooting. i. Shotguns are versatile firearms used for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. We will demonstrate using a Mossberg M590-A1 12ga, but the process is essentially the same for most common pump shotguns Shotgun Select a Slug – Guns 101 – Feed The Machine We generally load our shotguns with one flavor of ammo. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of reloading shotgun shells safely and effectively The brass side of the shotgun shells should be facing away toward the left side of your body and stacked in the same direction. Different types of ammunition are available for each purpose. 74M subscribers Subscribe We're at Nicholasville Reloading Supplies to learn the basics of hand-loading ammunition. Smokeless powder is a type of propellant that burns cleaner between the shot and the barrel while projectile. Find out more about ammunition, how it compares and how to make your own. Sep 14, 2012 · Wayne van Zwoll explains in plain terms key points of bullet ballistics, including pressure, velocity and distance. Pretty much each of the ammo types we will discuss can be found in any of those gauges. Here’s how it works. The break-action combo fires rimfire rounds from the top barrel and . New tools and devices are introduced every other day but all of them are not useful. This guide will help you to understand the basics of reloading shotgun shells and make sense of the different options. Jun 15, 2020 · Top Shot Champion Chris Cheng demonstrates for beginners the difference between several common shotgun loads. You will be required to register before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. If you ar Feb 22, 2023 · My nephew, who shoots Ducks told me the other day that his guns couldn't shoot steel shot. Mar 30, 2023 · There are many different types of shotgun shells and this makes it hard to understand exactly how they're made and what they're designed for. , the shot size, ounces of shot, and length of the shell. The Model 101 is a well-balanced over-under shotgun that is known for its fast handling and smooth swing. In this detailed shotshell reloading manual, we will explore the process, equipment, and safety measures involved in reloading shotgun shells. Top Shot Champion Chris Cheng demonstrates how to properly load a shotgun. Learn which ammo suits trap, skeet, and sporting clays best. The key to getting the most from your shotgun is selecting the proper ammunition. Shotgun Shot Size Chart guide. Dec 4, 2024 · Learn the inner workings of shotguns, including components, ammunition, firing sequence, action types, and performance. Get valuable insights and practical tips to diagnose and troubleshoot ejection issues. These shotguns fire a single shot per barrel before reloading, usually by either the action of an exposed hammer or an enclosed Jun 1, 2010 · This Guns 101 article addresses shotguns shells. However, a situation may arise where you need a slug to solve a special problem. All shotshells share a few common traits Please note that if you are using a high risk VPN to register, your profile may be placed in a banned status. He seemed to think that lead shot would deform in the barrel/choke and allow the shot to pass, but steel shot column would not How to Load a Shotgun: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners Shotguns are popular firearms used for various purposes, such as hunting, clay shooting (trap, skeet, sporting clays, 3-gun), and home defense. AA-HS, 1300fps, 3/4oz #7 1/2 and a 28ga steel load Fed. Tags: 12 gauge, 20 gauge, beginner shooting tip, bird shot, buck shot, Chris Cheng, Kryptek Typhon, Mossberg, Mossberg 500, Mossberg 930 […] Jan 9, 2020 · Quickly learn how pump and semi-auto shotguns work, before diving into how to load, unload, and shoot them. Sep 23, 2010 · The capability of producing expensive ammo at cheap ammo prices is but one reason for rolling your own. Whether you're Today we will cover how to safely load and unload your pump-action shotgun. While reloading can be done in many ways, today we will look at how to reload shotgun shells by hand versus purchasing a machine. Both firearm instructors and experienced shooters are encouraged to watch and share these tips with newcomers to the Shotgun Ammo 101 - Shotgun Ammo Explained Shotguns are probably the most versatile type of firearm. They are loaded with lead, steel, bismuth and tungsten alloy shot, as well as slugs and buckshot. To pattern a shotgun, take the following to the range: your shotgun, shotgun shells and some pieces of paper at least 40-inches square. On most semi-auto shotguns, there is a release button below and just forward of the ejection port. Firearm instructors and experienced shooters are encouraged to watch and share these tips with newcomers to the shooting sports. In the base of the shell A look at various shotgun shells, the size of the pellets within them, how many pellets are in each, and the spread when shot. Check out these five best shotgun reloading techniques. While simply running the action and dumping all your ammo out will work, it is time-consuming and wastes ammo. For example, a 12-gauge load with 7 „8 ounce of shot is available off the shelf but not necessarily in the form we might want or need. G&T 2. Nov 5, 2010 · A forum community dedicated to Shotgun owners and enthusiasts including the Remington, Beretta, and Mossberg shotguns brands. 25drams, 1350fps, 5 Jul 3, 2024 · Discover the ultimate guide to choosing the perfect shotgun for beginners! Learn about different types of shotguns, key features to consider, and top recommendations to help you make an informed decision. This is the dedicated cast bullet forum!Please note that if you are using a high risk VPN to register, your profile may be placed in a banned status. You can use it for everything from informal target shooting to big game hunting and personal defense. Load the Chamber: Insert a shell into the open chamber and close the action. Discover Which Classic Guns Deliver The Best Thrills Now! Mar 22, 2024 · What you need to know about shotgun ballistics: the pattern, velocity, shot stringing, forcing cones, chokes, and how to find the best load and choke combo Sep 23, 2010 · The capability of producing expensive ammo at cheap ammo prices is but one reason for rolling your own. Hornady offers a line of specific lever-action ammo, Leverevolution, topped with the company’s Monoflex or FTX bullets. I have been looking for good “Shotshell Reloading 101” videos. Jun 17, 2019 · Aside from these . 30-30 Win. May 1, 2020 · The majority of shotshells are closed with a six- or eight-fold crimp. Apr 16, 2020 · Shotshells are the least understood type of ammunition. A look at various shotgun shells, the size of the pellets within them, how many pellets are in each, and the spread when shot. May 11, 2023 · The shotgun must be mastered or it will be underutilized and under-appreciated. Please consider supporting the channel by shopping through one of Feb 1, 2024 · Break-Action Shotguns These firearms hinge at the breech end of the barrel, allowing spent shells to be removed and new shotgun shells inserted. Six-folds are best employed for hunting loads featuring larger shot and sub-gauges, while eight-folds works well with smaller shot sizes. One key aspect of shotguns that often confuses beginners is the concept of “gauge. ” Unlike rifles and handguns, which are typically classified by caliber, shotguns are classified by gauge. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below Anatomy of a Shotshell Federal loads eight gauges of shotshells: 10, 12, 16, 20, 28 and . No one want’s to show up to the trap, sporting clays or skeet range with the wrong ammo, either. Load Options Reloading also offers the option of building loads that are not available from the factories. 25drams, 1350fps, 5 Reloading shotgun shells is an art and science that many shooting enthusiasts enjoy. Jul 10, 2022 · Good Day! I’m a long time lurker of the forum but joined up today as my searches are not yielding results. You can save up to 70% in reloading for Magnum 10, 5-dram 2-ounce loads, using Western once fired tubes. May 4, 2021 · Quad loading is the fastest way to get your shotgun topped off with fresh ammo and back to shooting. 410 bore shotgun shells from the bottom. If you are considering a fast-handling, smooth-swinging over and under shotgun, bring a Model 101 up to your shoulder at your Winchester Repeating Arms® dealer. In a defensive situation, we typically load buckshot. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of reloading shotgun shells safely and effectively . Mar 13, 2009 · The Alcan Company of Alton, Illinois, gives this breakdown of cost for a box of 12-gauge shells, using a 3-dram, 1-ounce hunting load in Western Trap tubes: This is a saving of about 57% over the retail price of 12-gauge factory loads. Picking the most appropriate ammo can make or break your The Nation's Leading Shooting Sports Distributor Specializing In Wholesale Firearms, Optics, Ammunition, and Accessories. Whether you’re looking to save money, customize your loads, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of making your own ammunition, learning how to reload shotgun shells is a valuable skill. Come join the discussion about optics, hunting, gunsmithing, styles, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! Today we will cover how to safely load and unload your pump-action shotgun. Save money and customize your ammo. Mar 22, 2024 · What you need to know about shotgun ballistics: the pattern, velocity, shot stringing, forcing cones, chokes, and how to find the best load and choke combo Feb 13, 2024 · Become a shotgun shell reloading expert! Our comprehensive manual covers everything from basic techniques to advanced tips and tricks. They can be used for hunting large and small game, for wingshooting, clay games (such as trap, skeet, or sporting clays), tactical use, defense, and multigun. e. Family Owned For Over 175 Years. The Swapin & Sellin section is only Feb 27, 2018 · All the basics you wanted to know about shotguns, shot and shotshells (but were afraid to ask). More likely, though, there’s a widespread misunderstanding among hunters Top Shot Champion Chris Cheng demonstrates the differences between several common shotgun loads. The technique I use is quick and easy Shotgun Ammo Info & Uses Strong performers at close range, shotguns are used for target shooting, hunting, and defense. Roll crimps, on the other hand, are uncommon outside of slugs. May 23, 2023 · While this may strike experienced hunters and shooters as common knowledge, we could all stand a refresher on the basics of shotgunning. Why? It could be that, unlike rifle and handgun loads (i. Looking for the best shotgun shells for home defense? Learn about buckshot, birdshot, and slugs, and find out which loads are best for protecting your home. Jun 18, 2022 · Shotgun shell reloading is one of the tried and true ways to fill your scattergun with the load you've always wanted, and to save some money doing it. 45-70 loads, lever-gun loads abound for those looking for options outside of the realm of the revered big-bore government cartridge, such as the classic . rating on the box along with the dr. 12 Shotgun Ballistics Charts To begin, start with selecting your gauge of ammunition. Aug 22, 2019 · Shotshell Reloading Introduction Shotshell reloading is a well-established hobby, that is fun, satisfying and can save you money. Nov 9, 2024 · We cover all the info you need to get you out into the field this hunting seasonfrom shotgun types to shells to chokes and everything in between. Shotguns have great stopping power, but take skill to reload on the quick. Shotgun Ammo Shotgun ammunition, called shotshells, come in five different “sizes”—12, 16, 20 and 28 gauge, with 12 being the largest, along with . 3 Shot leaves the barrel as a small, tight group of projectiles and disperses into a wider “pattern” as it travels farther downrange. May 4, 2024 · Load the Chamber: Insert a shell into the open chamber and close the action. Download now! Oct 8, 2025 · Learn about shotgun ammo varieties including birdshot & slugs, with insights on selecting the right load for hunting, defense & range training. Here we are walked through the process step-by-step by Randy Bickley, an expert in the field who has been Aug 31, 2025 · Find The Top Double Barrel Shotguns Of 2025, September Tested. Sep 20, 2025 · Honestly, shooting a shotgun is a lot different than shooting a handgun, or a rifle. At the same time, self-defense or tactical ammo usually uses a reduced powder charge to Top Shot Champion Chris Cheng demonstrates for beginners how to properly load a shotgun. You can thank us later. 410—in addition to specialty loads like 24 and 32 gauge. But first, learn how to use it properly here! I find it strange that ammo manufacturers don't print the p. s. It’s important to know how to shoot a shotgun the right way, so that you can be more efficient with it when you need it most! A shotgun is not Shotguns usually are used for moving targets. Firearms instructors and experienced shooters are encouraged to watch and share these tips with The secret is performance. We're at Nicholasville Reloading Supplies to learn the basics of hand-loading ammunition. Getting started in trap shooting requires only a shotgun, a shotgun shooting vest, hearing and eye protection and a few boxes of shells. Aug 13, 2025 · Choosing the right shotgun shells for clay shooting can improve your game. They’re perfect for shells packed to the hilt, such as turkey-specific Reloading shotgun shells is an art and science that many shooting enthusiasts enjoy. So we give you the tips and tricks to get it done! Shotguns are versatile firearms used for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. cjx duwh xwt832 kk0v0 09mho d3 yfly sr asrtukvw xtysfi