Are you a gun enthusiast looking to reload your shotgun shells? Whether you’re an experienced shooter or just starting, having the right equipment is essential.
Reloading your shells can be both time-efficient and cost-effective, allowing you to maximize every ounce of ammunition.
To make sure you get the very best in shell reloaders, we’ve put together this guide of the highest-rated models available.
What is a Shotgun Shell Reloader?
A shotshell reloader is an invaluable resource for anyone who wants to quickly and efficiently create shotgun shells without having to buy new ones.
This tool or machine allows you to reassemble used hulls with gunpowder, shot, and primer – giving you the ability to reload your ammunition cost-effectively.
Shotshell reloaders are available in various sizes, capacities, and price ranges depending on the type of reloading desired and the level of experience of the reloader.
What Are the Benefits of Owning a Shotshell Reloader?
A gun owner or shooting enthusiast may consider owning a shotgun shell reloader for a variety of reasons:
Cost savings
Reloading shotgun shells can be a cost-effective option compared to purchasing new factory-made shells.
Reloaded spent hulls, along with primers, wads, powder, and shot components can help gun owners and shooting fans save money over time. Reloading is the ideal way for shooters to maximize their ammunition budget.
Customization
Reloading shotgun shells offers you the ability to craft personalized loads. As gun owners and sport shooters understand, the powder charge, shot size, and wad type can be adjusted for optimized performance based on your specific hunting or clay target shooting needs.
This customization allows for more control over the shooting experience and can result in improved accuracy and performance.
Ammo availability
Furthermore, reloading shotgun shells can help ensure ammunition availability. Depending on one’s location, certain types of shotgun shells may be hard to find or out of stock.
Gun owners and shooting enthusiasts can maintain a steady stock of ammo, regardless of the availability in stores, by reloading their shells.
Just for fun
Finally, for some gun owners and shooting enthusiasts, reloading shotgun shells can be a fun and rewarding hobby.
The process of reloading can be relaxing and satisfying, and it allows for greater control and personalization of the shooting experience.
The Best Shotshell Reloaders Available on the Internet
Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant is an advanced reloading press built for those who need to generate massive amounts of ammunition quickly and effortlessly. Its integrated automated indexing system makes it easy for users to go through each stage of the reloading process with minimum effort.
The press is capable of reloading up to 500 rounds per hour, and it comes with a variety of features designed to make the process as streamlined as possible. These include an EZject system that reliably ejects every cartridge, a case-activated powder drop that ensures every charge is accurate, and a bullet feeder that eliminates the need to manually place each bullet in the press.
The Ammo Plant caters to convenience, with its digital scale, priming system, and hull feeder working in harmony to expedite the reloading process. Not only is it efficient but its small footprint means that it can sit comfortably on most workbenches.
The Hornady Lock-N-Load Ammo Plant is a high-end reloading press that is ideal for those who need to produce large volumes of ammunition quickly and efficiently. However, it may not be suitable for those who are new to reloading or who only need to produce small quantities of ammunition at a time.
LEE PRECISION II Shotshell Reloading Press 12 GA
Hunters aiming to save money on ammunition should consider the LEE PRECISION II Shotshell Reloading Press. It offers a unique, revolutionary design that allows for quick and efficient reloading of shotgun shells – ideal for shooting aficionados seeking cost-effectiveness as well as time savings.
The progressive reloader is a remarkable piece of engineering, capable of outputting up to 100 rounds every 60 minutes. While the learning curve may be steep, it’s worth it for its speed and effectiveness. It works best with spent casings, while the primer punch and seater are designed perfectly.
One of the unique features of this press is its compatibility with 12-, 16-, and 20-gauge shotgun shells, making it a versatile option for shotgun enthusiasts. This reloader is progressive, meaning it can generate up to one hundred shotgun shells an hour – making it one of the quickest reloading presses currently available.
RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press
For anyone looking for accuracy and precision when reloading their cartridges, the RCBS 9356 Rock Chucker Supreme Press is a great choice. This single-stage press is crafted with high-grade materials to guarantee a reliable product that will last you through many rounds of ammo without fail.
This shotshell reloader is designed to work with a wide range of cartridges, including large hulls, and it is compatible with standard 7/8″-14 threaded dies.
Its ergonomic handle is designed to slant backward so that it won’t slip away from the press due to its gravity and remains out of sight when not in use. The ram runs nicely, while the primer seater and catcher do their jobs without any issues.
Overall, the Rock Chucker Supreme press is an ideal choice for any dedicated gun enthusiast, particularly those who reload a considerable number of large cartridges. This machine is both dependable and long-lasting, offering great value for your money.
MEC 8567N 12 Gauge Grabber Press
The MEC 8567N 12 Gauge Grabber Press is another great shotgun shell reloader for enthusiasts who want to speed up the process. This efficient, high-volume ammunition machine offers a six-stage operation that quickly and easily produces large quantities of 12 gauge shells.
One of the unique features of the MEC 8567N 12 Gauge Grabber Press is its auto-indexing feature, which ensures that the shells are rotated to the correct station during the reloading process.
Another unique feature of this shotshell reloader is its integrated primer feeding system. By automating priming, it erases the need to manually place every single primer into each shell – saving you time and energy.
The MEC 8567N also features a high-quality construction that is designed to withstand heavy use. Its all-steel frame and durable components ensure that it will last for years of reloading use.
Overall, this shotgun shell reloader is an excellent choice for those who want to reload large volumes of 12-gauge shotgun shells quickly and efficiently. Its unique features and durable construction make it stand out from other shotshell presses on the market.
DADDY AMMO 12 Gauge Reloader
The Daddy Ammo 12 Gauge Reloader is the perfect tool for those who like to take their time with reloading shotgun shells. This manual device only works with 12 gauge shells that are 2.5 inches or less, and due to its slower speed of 40 shells per hour, it’s not intended for high-volume production—but rather provides a sense of relaxation during the reloading process.
As a manual reloader, each hull must be loaded into the machine manually. Although an experienced reloader can produce up to 50-60 shells per hour, in reality, it is much closer to 40 shells per hour.
The reloader is simple to use and comes with a heavy-duty aluminum crimp starter that boasts superb durability and performance.
If you’re a hobbyist looking for an inexpensive reloading option, the Daddy Ammo 12 Gauge Reloader is your go-to choice. It’s well-made considering its price point and makes producing shotgun shells in small batches surprisingly easy. Professional loaders may want to look elsewhere but for recreational users, this budget-friendly device does the job perfectly.
Shotshell Reloader vs. Hand Priming Tool for Brass
A shotshell reloader is a device used to reload shotgun shells with shot and powder. It allows the user to customize the load to their preference and can save money on buying new ammunition.
The reloader is typically a larger, more complex tool that can handle multiple stages of the reloading process, such as de-priming, sizing, and crimping.
On the other hand, a hand priming tool for brass cases is a smaller, simpler device used to prime brass cartridge cases for reloading. It is designed to quickly and easily seat a primer in the primer pocket of a brass cartridge case.
While both tools are used in the reloading process, they serve different purposes. A shotshell reloader is used for reloading shotgun shells, while a brass hand priming tool is used for priming brass cartridge cases for reloading.
They are designed to handle different types of ammunition and serve different functions.
Commonly Asked Questions
Is reloading your ammo better than purchasing it?
When it comes to ammunition, reloading offers a budget-friendly alternative. Recycling spent shells and investing in components like primers, powder, and bullets can result in significant savings over time.
Ultimately, deciding whether reloading or buying ammo is better for you depends on the situation. If your goal is to save cash, customize your loads, and guarantee constant access to ammunition – then taking on the task of reloading might be an ideal choice for you.
What is the best shotgun shell to reload?
For the highest caliber reloading today, Winchester AA and Remington STS hulls are unmatched. Their robust brass heads and resilient plastic bodies offer maximum longevity.
Are reloads safe to shoot?
Yes, reloads are safe to shoot. Hand-made reloads are not only reliable and accurate, but they can also be safer than factory-made ammo. Moreover, the best part is you can customize it perfectly for your shotgun.
Could handloading ammunition be hazardous?
Reloading your ammunition can be risky if not done cautiously. You must be careful when dealing with the small, yet powerful parts such as primers and gunpowder throughout this process.
If these components are mismanaged or wrongly combined, they can lead to catastrophic harm – even death.
However, with proper training, knowledge, and attention to detail, you can enjoy the benefits of custom loads and cost savings while minimizing the risk of injury.
How many times can you safely reload shotgun shells?
Generally, the majority of shotgun shells can be reloaded multiple times – some experts estimate that certain types are even suitable for up to 10 or more refills.
It is critical to keep in mind that reloading the shell repeatedly can diminish its integrity.
Closing Words
So, if you’re into shooting and own a shotgun, a shotgun shell reloader could be a helpful firearm accessory for you.
Owning a shotgun shell reloader is a great investment for any shotgun owner who wants to save money, customize their loads, and ensure a steady supply of ammunition.
Plus, it can be a fun and rewarding hobby!
