Question for shotgun reloaders re shot size in the reloader

[ustate]

I'm just curious which is the largest size of bird shot that will drop reliably from the hopper. I was given a Lee Load All (a long time ago) and I'm thinking of putting it to use. If/when I start using the Lee and enjoy it I'll probably upgrade to the MEC 600.

Currently I load handgun and rifle on a Dillon 550 for about the last 8 years so while not new to reloading I've never reloaded shotgun. Thanks.

 

[PapaG]

I find that anything bigger than no. 6 can "bridge" up in the drop tube of my MECs. I make it a habit when loading 6s and larger to tap the tube with a dowel to make sure the shot has all dropped. I rarely load anything bigger than sixes but used to do a lot of BB, 4 and 5 shot.
I would think the Lee would merit the same attention.
I loaded a lot of shells on Lee Load Alls before I got my Grabbers. They aren't bad loaders. Simple, cheap, and fewer things to go wrong than on the Pro1000s and Loadmasters...which I know a lot of you love and cherish. I'm just getting too old to enjoy constant fiddling with things. Dad and I had a pair of Stars and that spoiled me for anything else. My brother's Dillon was close.
I still use a pair of Lee Pros but not for priming. Size a bunch, prime with a hand primer, then use the three stations: 1-expand and charge, 2-seat, 3-crimp. Works for me.

 

[gamestalker]

I've loaded 4's and smaller on my Mec, but I have no idea what the LLA will handle. I had one many years ago, but I don't remember what sizes I was loading on it, other than 6's and 7.5's.

GS

 

[Sni-per]

I have run #4s through mine. I load my own Turkey loads, so the #4 copper plated works fine too.

 

[ustate]

Thanks for the replies everyone, appreciate your help.

 

[blarby]

The LEE will bridge #4 on occasion, messy little tube sometimes ! It's still too small to hand count, even with a tray. So, tube-whacking it is !