Introduction The Importance of Powder Selection The world of shotshell reloading is a realm of precision and passion, where the careful selection of components dictates the success of every shot. From the hunter seeking a clean, decisive kill to the competitive shooter striving for tight patterns, the right powder is paramount. Choosing the ideal propellant … Read more
Understanding Smokeless Powder What is smokeless powder? To begin, what exactly is smokeless powder? Contrary to the name, it’s not completely smokeless, though it produces far less smoke than its black powder predecessor. It’s a propellant, meaning it generates expanding gases to push a projectile. Smokeless powder is a blend of chemicals, primarily nitrocellulose (gun … Read more
Introduction A Timeless Cartridge The 30-40 Krag, often simply called the 30 Army, represents a fascinating piece of American military history. Born from a desire for a more modern and efficient repeating rifle, it became the official US Army service rifle in the late nineteenth century, preceding the legendary .30-06 Springfield. Its legacy lives on … Read more
Understanding the Fundamentals: The 9mm Case Unveiled Brass vs. Alternatives The pursuit of accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness is a constant endeavor for shooters, whether they are seasoned competitors or casual enthusiasts. And at the heart of this pursuit lies a deep understanding of the components that make up their sport. One of the most frequently … Read more
Introduction Why Reload Shotgun Shells? The satisfying boom of a shotgun, the way it kicks against your shoulder, the tight pattern of shot that can bring down game or smash a clay pigeon – these are the things that make shotgunning such a compelling activity. But buying factory-loaded shells can be a costly endeavor. That’s … Read more
The Core of Ignition: Understanding Primers The primer is the ignition source, the spark that sets the entire reloading process in motion. Nestled within the primer pocket of a cartridge case, it provides the initial burst of energy needed to ignite the propellant, ultimately propelling the bullet down the barrel. The primer’s role might seem … Read more
The Allure of Handloading: Why Reload? The decision to reload goes beyond simply purchasing ammunition at a store. It’s a choice that opens a new world of possibilities for the shooter. One of the most attractive benefits is, of course, the potential for significant cost savings. By reusing the brass casings, a significant expense is … Read more
Understanding the Basics: What is a Shell Holder? A Critical Component In the realm of precision shooting, the relentless pursuit of accuracy reigns supreme. Every element of the process, from the rifle itself to the ammunition, contributes to the final outcome. Reloading, the art and science of crafting your own ammunition, offers a powerful means … Read more
Safety: The Paramount Consideration Before diving into the technical aspects of 20 gauge reloading, it’s imperative to address safety. Reloading, by its very nature, involves working with potentially explosive materials. Mistakes can lead to serious injury or even fatality, as well as causing considerable damage to your firearm. Never, ever, take shortcuts or deviate from … Read more
The Fundamentals of Large Rifle Primers The primer is the initial spark that sets off the entire ammunition cycle. It is the small, sensitive component that ignites the propellant, propelling the bullet downrange. For rifle cartridges, especially those designed for larger calibers, the large rifle primer is often the key component. These primers are designed … Read more
