16 gauge reloading data

[jojo200517]

OK folks I am looking for some loading data for 16 gauge buckshot. Either 00 or #4 buck preferably. I went thru the Hodgdon data center and found nothing but bird shot loads for 16 gauge. Would prefer something using Universal clays powder, WAA16 wads, remington 16 gauge shells, and Winchester 209 primers. (since I already have that on hand)


If this turns out to be non-exsistant data could I maybe weigh my buckshot pellets and be sure I have 1 oz of shot and no more in the wad the same as the birdshot load?

I know reloading is picky and you have to follow the data, but wouldn't 1 oz be 1 oz?

Speaking of that stores stock 1 1/8 oz #6 loads but I can't find any data for any shot load but 1 oz.

 

[Ridgerunner665]

I can look when I get home (tomorrow about 1700)....I haven't loaded a shotshell in years, but I have some old manuals from back in my grouse hunting days.

 

[loadedround]

Get a hold of the Lyman Shotshell Manual. It will give you all the information you need.

 

[NCsmitty]

I know reloading is picky and you have to follow the data, but wouldn't 1 oz be 1 oz?

I've been reloading all kinds of ammo including shotshells for many decades, and that's how I often reason out loads that are not exactly matched in the manuals.

If you work with the lower pressure loads listed by the Hodgdon site or from a manual, the basic variable will be the choke constriction with the larger shot size of buckshot and whether it will create dangerous pressures. If your firearm is in good condition, it shouldn't be an issue.
The other variable may be your powder/wad/shot column and whether you get a good crimp with your components.
Others may say that you must follow the manuals precisely, and I say you should make your own decision.



NCsmitty

 

[FROGO207]

There is a lot of good information available from Ballistic Products Inc. And they have some data sheets for exact loads in 16 GA with buckshot available for cheap as well as inexpensive components. I am presently looking for the info using brass shotshells and they were really helpful. I think it is bpi.com

 

[jojo200517]

Well the firearm in question is a Remington 1100, in good working order. The variable I can't change without a lot of work at least is the fixed mod choke barrel. I do see what you are saying about it squeezing down to go thru the choke. The Remington rifled slugger shells I fired went thru it just fine so i'd think loose pellets should be ok too, i'll start small and work it up I guess.

I do suppose some kind of buffer material would help this too, never loaded my own buffered shot loads tho.

 

[243winxb]

Buck shot needs a buffer, this increases pressure, this is why 1oz of buck is not the same as 1oz of shot. Lead is not a problem in the choke, steel or tungsten, busmuth is if using a full choke. http://www.ballisticproducts.com/ The Rem. 1100 works within a set pressure range, so load using published data.