target reloads
I'm finally going to start reloading for trap and skeet, but I have a couple of questions. I've seen a lot of factory target loads filled with steel shot. My question is "why?" It there any benefit to steel other than the increased velocity? Also, is there any other kind of shot that I could use, given that my barrels probably weren't designed for steel? (Tungsten is cost-prohibitive, and I'm looking for a faster moving shot than lead) Thanks
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There are a growing number of clays ranges that are coming under observation by enviromentalist. It is virtually impossible to get a permit to open a new range if there is any natural pool of water or stream on the property. Existing ranges are struggling with enviromental issues just to continue operation. One of the concessions is the use of steel shot. I would not recommend the use of steel shot for sport shooting unless it is mandated by the range. Also might add before you invest in reloading equipment you do a cost ratio vs purchasing new shells. Unless you are loading small gauges (28 & .410), I have found it cheaper to purchase shells. 0 -
It has been said that steel may pattern more uniform than lead because it deforms less. Have never tested the theory myself. 0 -
eastwood;
I have been reloading 12 trap shells for the last 20 odd years, using Winchester AA hulls, and lead shot. Where I shoot, there has never been a problem with lead, but I am sure it is coming! That said, I have found that reloading is cheaper by half. I can reload 12ga shells for $2.50 a box, and the only way to beat that price, is to buy cheaper loads, and in bulk quantity, which means laying out four or five hundred dollars at a time for shells. That has never appealed to me. And I like to reload. It is kinda peaceful to get out to the reloading room, turn on the radio, and crank out about three hundred shells in about an hour. Without any screw-ups, of course!
Good luck,
BigBarn[:o)]
"Respect the land, and it will respect you"0 -
On the idea of faster shot, you may want to check current rules and regs for both your shooting range and your sport. Sporting clays used to to limited to a max. velocity of 1250fps (may have changed but doubt it), and I'm sure both trap and skeet have similiar limitations. The sports don't want hot loads, nor do the ranges as many are set up to have a maximum area that shot lands in. Besides that, driving a load faster doesn't necessarily get you a better score, it's tough on the gun and you, it's very annoying to other shooters(muzzle blast) and quite often it will either blow holes in the pattern or even keep them from opening(personal experience).
As mentioned, steel is required in more and more places as the environmental loonies get more control. Loading anything other than lead is an expensive proposition, and loading steel has to absolutely be by the book, using only the wads, shot, powder hull specified for steel and even then is not reccomended and still much more expensive than lead.0
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