Altering shotshell length

[Seanpcola]

I hope this isn't one of those extreme dumb questions but I need a work-around for a problem.

Is there any practical way to shorten an unfired shotshell? Specifically, I have a semi-auto shotgun that shoots .410. I bought it knowing that this firearm is particular about OA shell length. The manufacturer of the upper provides a list of recommended shells and most are pretty hard to find locally. Through my own research I have found several brands and loads that "almost" cycle but they're too long, often by only 1/16" and many more choices are about 1/8" too long.

I kind of thought that maybe some shells can be opened and re-crimped but don't know, haven't tried it and wouldn't without verification from somebody that knows. If I'm hoping against hope I'll just resign myself to ordering on line.



Thank you in advance,

Sean

 

[JLDickmon]

I'd have the chamber re-done.

 

[oneounceload]

Are these 3" shells?
If so, buy some 2.5" ammo

 

[Seanpcola]

Sorry, I forgot to give that spec. It's chambered for 2.5" shells so that option is out.
This is on an AR platform so limiting factor is the magazine size.

 

[gamestalker]

I you were reloading them you might have some viable options. But to open and then shorten a factory shell and then re-use the same components and their same weights, would not be a safe option.

I've trimmed and re-used some hulls over the years when they begin splitting at the tips of the hull after multiple times being reloaded with no issues, but I certainly wouldn't try that with a factory shell.

GS

 

[NeuseRvrRat]

i think your best bet would be to order the recommended shells online

 

[rg1]

I'd call Ballistic Products and check with their techs. They'd have an answer plus maybe the tools to do the job?
http://www.ballisticproducts.com/

 

[Seanpcola]

OK, Thanks GS, that answers the safety issue.
rg1: I will check out that link, thank you!
NeuseRvrRat: I know that will probably be my only option. Just thought their might be an easy answer. Thank you too.

I've talked to a few guys that are heavy into reloading and they feel that it wouldn't be worth it for me to get into reloading shot shells. That's why I haven't really pursued that option. If I could find the equipment for a reasonable cost I wouldn't mind learning how to do it.

 

[oneounceload]

What you might want to do is try a few different brands - the hull length can vary by your discrepancy from maker to maker. Another possibility is to look for roll-crimped shells. Remember, hull length is the FIRED length and roll-crimped hulls are shorter than those using a star crimp

 

[FROGO207]

Reloading 12 and 20 gauge skeet loads is not really worth it for the most part if you don't shoot thousands of rounds a year IMHO. BUT for the .410 gauge there can be a serious cost savings by reloading it. Add to that the ability to make common hulls the length you need, add the ability to roll crimp them and you will be able to feed your toy with ease and economy after a short learning curve I bet-cha. Yeah Ballistic Products will be the place for components/info and a used MEC 600 JR can be had anywhere from $75 ti $140 in .410 caliber if you have a little patience and search the used gear sections that should list it on the net.

 

[Seanpcola]

Here is the list as presented by the manufacturer:



1. Estate Sport/Competition .410, Cartridge 2-1/2" #7.5 Lead 1/2 Ounce 1200 fps 25 Round Box Manufacturer: FEDERAL Estate Cartridge Mfr Part #:ESS41075 ,
2. FEDERAL Estate Cartridge # 8 and 9 Mfr Part #:ESS4108 and Mfr Part #: ESS4109
3. Federal Ammo 410ga 25 5oz Hi-Brass 6 25rds/bx Mfr Part #:FEDH4126
4. WINCHESTER RIFLED SLUG 410 Gauge, 2 1/2", 1/5 oz, 1830 fps, 5 Rd/bx X41RS5,
5. Remington Shotshell 20750 9 410ga 2-1/2 1/2oz Mfr Part #:REMSTS4109
6. ATI 410 Gauge rifled slugs; out of stock in USA currently.
7. Remington Long Range Field and Express 1/5 oz Slugs. #4, Mfr. Part: REMSP4104 #6 Mfr. Part: REMSP4106 Long Range, #6 Mfr. Part:REMSP41075
8. Winchester Super SPORT will fit and run but they are a tight fit and some fail to load and get stuck in the magazine. Please avoid it.

NOT RECOMMENDED:

Nobel Law Enforcement slug; ANS412S; too long for magazine
Remington Ultimate Home Defense; 000 buckshot; 410B000HD; would not chamber
Federal Premium 410 Handgun; 000 buckshot; PD412JGE-000; would not chamber
Federal Hi-Brass Load; ½ oz. #6; H412-6; would not chamber
RIO .410 does not fit. Do not use it. And please no substandard ammo like Mexican Aquilla or such. Please avoid normal Winchester 2.5” ammo and Remington #9.
The gun patterns really well with bird shot. It has been tried by customers with this feedback. Shot slugs at the range and got 10 inch MOA at 50 yards with iron sights.

I will do some hunting around for reloading equipment and see what's out there.

I appreciate everyone's input.