Need help starting 20 gauge reloading

[Questor]

I already reload rife and pistol, but do not load shotshells. I'd like to start loading 20 gauge shotshells.

I don't need a progressive reloader because of relatively low volume.

I do need a loading machine that is a good value for the money and give good reliable service for a long time.  

What do you recommend for a reloading press?

Also, what other things do you need to get started on loading shotshells?  

Is there a particularly good book on the subject that I should be reading?

Thank you for your advice.

[Questor]

P.S. I only expect to load lead target loads, not steel, if that makes a difference.

[rickyp]

I personally I feel you may do well with the lee load all. New they run under $50 you can get a primer feed as well. For the low volume shooter, budget minded or someone starting out this can be a good way to get started. Another good route would be to get a used MEC 600 JR About $60 new goes for about $100.  The best thing you can do is get several good shot shell loading books and follow them. Shot shells do not show the same pressure sings as metallic cartridges do

[Ka6otm]

Questor,

You would be hard pressed to find a better value for your money than a MEC 600Jr.  They run a little under $100 new and a little over half of that used.  You see them a lot on eBay.

I started loading Shotshells with a MEC 600 Jr. in 20 Gauge and 30 years later, it's still working fine.

Get yourself a copy of the Lyman Shotshell Reloading Handbook 4th Edition before you start loading and read the front of it closely.  This is the part that tells you what to look for, what to do, what not to do and so forth.  The rear 80% of the book is all loads you can use.

Other than the MEC press you will need powder, primers, shot and possibly powder bushings for the MEC.  Whether or not you will need them will depend upon the powder you use and how much of it.  If you buy new, they come with 3 bushings...some of the more commonly used ones.  You can also get new bars that throw larger amounts of shot than the one that comes with the MEC.  I believe the one that comes with it throws 7/8 oz. of shot and you can get them to throw 3/4 oz., 1 oz or 1-1/8 oz. or whatever quantity you want to use.

Since you already reload metallic, I know you must already have a scale and are familiar with its' usage, so we won't go there.

Have fun,
Ka6otm

[John Traveler]

Questor,

I second all the other's votes for the MEC 600 Jr.  Several of my friends and I all have the MEC 600 Jr. and it fullfills our shotshell requirements perfectly at low cost.

Like you, our shotshell requirements are simple: two or three standard loads for target shooting, and a couple heavier loads for hunting using standard lead shot.  That narrows it down to a couple charge bars for the shot charge, and a couple sleeve inserts for the powder charges.  All that is left is to decide on what brand empty shells to reload, the shot cups that fit, and the size of shot to use.

Using a system like that, we leave our loads set up for a standard load (target, light and heavy field) and take turns working at our garages to make up batches of the needed ammo.  It's worked well for over twenty years now, and greatly reduces our ammo expenses.

[Questor]

Thank you all for the feedback.  I appreciate it.  I was looking at the MEC 600 because it's a good price and has the features and simplicity I want.  I'll get that shotshell loading manual, study it, then get the equipment.   Sounds like I'll be able to get into it for about $100, plus a bag of shot, a box of primers, and some wads.  I already have some powder.

[Savage]

I own a Lee Load All in 16ga a Honey Bear in 20ga and a MEC 600jr in 12ga. I bought the MEC in the 60s and I'm still using it! The others came later. Wish they were all MECs! These things are easy to use and last a couple of lifetimes. I think I'll buy a 650 and give the 600jr to my son!
Stay Safe,
Savage

[kamml]

I use a Lee Load All II for 20 and a Mec 600 for 12.  The Lee loads a good round for 29.95.  Hands down its a good value.  I have crushed some hulls with it if I am not careful, and its a pain in what I sit on to change either shot or powder.  The Mec is a joy (once you get the crimper set up) and its got a great deal of adjustment so that is an added benefit.  The Lee has no adjustments.  Price wise, look around for a used Mec, they are just about indestructible, and if you can break something on it, Mec has a complete inventory of replacement parts.  I expect you can find a well used Mec for around $50.00 bucks, check with the shooting ranges in your area first.  BTW you can order all the Mec parts over the web direct form Mec and their delivery is top notch.   :wink: Ken

[454Puma]

Lee Load All II- the best for $30! Easy to use , no fuss. Have used the one I have for 28 years and just got a conversion kit to load 20 ga. Took 5 minute to change from 12-20ga and back again. With AA Win hull I can make them look just like store bought rounds

[NE Hunter]

I'd recomend the MEC Sizemaster it's still a single stage press but in my opinion has better features than the 600 JR. and it's not much more money $ 154.99 at Midway.

Has the collet resizer for brass or steel  heads
has ez prime with it ( an add on for the 600 jr.)

With some lookng you can probably get one on ebay

[Bill in IL]

Questor,
I bought a MEC 700 Versamec several years ago(sometime in the 70's) and it performed great. I have a nephew that is using it now. Don't believe they are made anymore but I would not hesitate in buying a used one if I wanted a single stage loader.                 

[Sx2]

Bill!