Been loading metallic cartridges for a good while now, just started to look into reloading for shotgun. If my math was correct the other day, I was looking about 28-30 cents a shell loading trap/skeet loads. Does this sound about right? Is anyone getting significantly better costs? That would save me about $1 per box of 25 at most and I'm not quite sure it's worth it at the moment.
Good News - In my neck of the prairie, components are starting to show up much more frequently, and in larger quantitiies.
Bad News - The owner of my favorite LGS says "Buy all you can now, because I'll be raising prices soon."
My price per shell is a smidge under $.25. I come by my frugality (cheapness) honestly, and this is how I save:
Network - I have been pretty fortunate to meet several hard-core reloaders in my area. When we find places with components in stock, we share that information with each other. We are also willing to purchase for others when we find the good stuff!
Hulls - I bought 1K once fired AA for skeet and sporting clays. They will last me a while (10+ loads). For everything else, I have a stash of once fired hulls (Gun Club, Fiocchi, etc.) that I get free at my clubs and local sporting clays courses. Those hulls are good for 5 loads (or more).
This helps with extending the life of hulls - well worth the money!
Primers - I can get Cheddite 209 locally for $35 per 1K. That's not great, but it beats shipping and hazmat. Finding anything else is going to require good luck and perfect timing.
Powder - Local sources are getting it in larger batches, and with greater frequency. The savings comes from buying in bulk, and a lack of shipping/Haz Mat fees. I also took advantage of
American Reloading's shot shell powder for my Annie Oakley loads (which was good savings for that purpose).
Wads - Same as primers and powder... local sources are pretty dependable now.
Shot - I load reclaimed shot for almost everything, which cuts the cost in half. Ask around at your local clubs, and I bet you will find that there is a source for reclaimed shot that services you area. Naturally, ask questions and shop smart. Some reclaimed shot is better than others.