Advice on Loading the 16 Gauge

[MacAR]

I lucked into a swap wherein I got 100 new primed 16 gauge hulls, and a bunch of nitro cards and fiber wads. Also a hand roll crimper (Russian maybe?) and a Lee shot dipper. Now my question: I'm looking for load data, but can find none for fiber wads. Would like to load an ounce of #6 as a game load, nothing too heavy. Mostly for use in old double guns. I have plenty of 2F black powder I could use, but would prefer to use nitro powder for easier cleaning. Any suggestions for a powder and some good load data?

Mac

P.S. - not looking to load cases of ammo, just replace what I use up hunting. My current load is Winchester 1oz game loads at 1165 fps, and I'd like to mirror that if possible.

 

[MacAR]

Not a soul on THR loads 16 gauge with fiber wads? I can't hardly believe that.

Mac

 

[George P]

Not too many load 16 period......have you tried the 16 gauge society? http://www.16ga.com/ or shotgunworld? www.shotgunworld.com
Both sites are filled with folks who love the 16

 

[MacAR]

No, but I will. Thanks George.

Mac

 

[Fishtales]

In checking for wads I saw that Graff & Sons has Claybuster 7/8 oz. 16 gauge wads in stock for $14.99 per bag of 250. Saw load data on another site, but don't remember which one. Powders were International and PB. I have been using Lyman's Shotshell Handbook 12 and 20 gauge for 50 years (16 gauge date also in it), but don't have it here. Could send some info later if you like. It's cool that there is an organization dedicated to the 16 gauge.

 

[George P]

Claybusters for that much for only 250? that doesn't sound right. CB usually sells them by the bag of 500

CAC Associates sells them for $10.31/bag

 

[MacAR]

Thanks for the help, all. I did take a look at the 16ga Society, and Shotgun-World, but I wound up loading a few rounds with 70grs of 2F and 1oz shot. Very fun, but different. I'm not used to the smoke, and the sound is much different than nitro powder loads. More of a deep boom. Anyhow, lots of fun and I'm planning on doing some 12's next.

Mac

 

[Thomasss]

Hodgdon's web site is the best for 1 ounce loads. You could use PB, 700x or 800x. PB was discontinued 3 years ago. You might want to look up cowboy loads for 16 gauge to keep the pressure down. If you used black powder, the recipe is equal volume of powder and
shot. Then use your wads to fill up any extra space. There are u-tube videos on doing that safely.