Author Topic: What to start with? (Read 1084 times)

Encore454 · « **on:** September 25, 2003, 05:22:53 PM »

I have reloaded for pistols and rifles for years but now I want to reload shotshells. I would like to be able to reload for everything from trap to dove to Heavyshot Duck Loads to 3 1/2 inch turkey loads.

Is there a reloader out there that will meet all of my needs?

Bob_K · « **Reply #1 on:** September 26, 2003, 02:25:51 AM »

Take a look at the MEC Steelmaster in 12 ga 3.5", then add the "short" kit and a MultiScale Charge Bar. The "short" kit will allow you to load 3" and 2 3/4" loads. The adjustable charge bar would accomodate the full range of shot and powder loads you'll need, including steel if you load waterfowl ammo. The down size for this single stage press is that reloading is slow compared to the progressive presses (MEC 650, Grabber, 9000G) but the progressives are not available in 3.5" size, and generally are a pain to shift between 3" and 2 3/4" sizes.

HammerMan/LongbowMan · « **Reply #2 on:** September 26, 2003, 07:14:21 AM »

:grin: I second the motion for a mec steelmaster or a sizemaster. They are good machines that can do what you want.

rickyp · « **Reply #3 on:** September 26, 2003, 04:41:13 PM »

I started out with an old lee loader. you can get them for about $20 off ebay. then when you have the money you can move up to a MEC,

For 410 I use a MEG 600 JR and it works well and for 12 ga i am using a now discontinued RC BS shot shell loading dies

Bob_K · « **Reply #4 on:** September 27, 2003, 01:46:25 AM »

Don't believe the Lee will do 12 ga 3.5" shells though.

rickyp · « **Reply #5 on:** September 28, 2003, 04:27:56 AM »

I don't thank they will either. I know they can do the 3 inch

trap55555 · « **Reply #6 on:** October 02, 2003, 03:32:49 PM »

Encore454, we seem to be going in opposite directions, I've reloaded shotshells for about 25+years now about 10000+ rounds a year (trap shooting). Now I trying to learn how to load rifle and pistol 30-06 hunting loads to begin with.

Every Good recommendations above, I would second the MEC equipment. I have not loaded steel so can not speak about it. But I can say that MEC service AND support is great.

Also be sure that your scales will handle the loads. As some scales will not weigh over 500 grains.

run'em

Encore454 · « **Reply #7 on:** October 03, 2003, 06:38:04 PM »

Thanks for all of the info. I am going to price the MEC Steelmaster tomorrow, along with the "short kit".

I assume it will come with a reloading book. If not, can anyone suggest one?

rickyp · « **Reply #8 on:** October 04, 2003, 03:37:34 PM »

before you buy, search on the web for shotshell reloading or
go to www.ballisticproducts.com they will have all you need to get started from books to shot and everything in between

the MEC is a good loader but can be a little tricky to set up.

Duffy · « **Reply #9 on:** October 05, 2003, 04:28:01 AM »

The new Lyman shotshell loading manual is a good one to have. It will help you with hull identification and also has lot's of weight's and measuring charts in it that are handy.

Ryan