Saw some threads in the past decided to conduct a semi scientific test, thought it might be fun to share the results. The question was how much does shot size effect the weight of shot that can fit in a given size and shape like a shot cup. I tracked down a graduated cylinder like I remember from chemistry class that had an ID close to a 12ga shell. I slid in an RP12 wad, put this on the scale and zero'd it. I used #1 buck, #4,#6 and #8 shot. I started with 15ea #1 buck and measured the height it came up to in the cylinder and weighed it. I repeated the same test on the smaller pellets filling to the same height each time as I figured this is were you would want to crimp to.
These are the results:
With #8 shot being 100% weight
#6 shot was 92% weight
#4 shot was 89% weight
#1 buckshot was 80% weight
I tried some #8 reclaimed shot thinking this beat up shot might "nest" a bit tighter, it came to 99% of the virginal #8 shot.
I put the weight vs the shot size on a chart and saw a predicatable curve but am not smart enough to post it here. So on the surface the weight of shot based on a shotcup or bushing may change close to 10%. So for those who dont check their shot weight, what shot size do the press makers use when they decide the weight a charge bar throws? I assume #8 as anything larger will throw a lighter weight and keep pressures down. I'm sure some one has posted this before but thought it might be interesting.
These are the results:
With #8 shot being 100% weight
#6 shot was 92% weight
#4 shot was 89% weight
#1 buckshot was 80% weight
I tried some #8 reclaimed shot thinking this beat up shot might "nest" a bit tighter, it came to 99% of the virginal #8 shot.
I put the weight vs the shot size on a chart and saw a predicatable curve but am not smart enough to post it here. So on the surface the weight of shot based on a shotcup or bushing may change close to 10%. So for those who dont check their shot weight, what shot size do the press makers use when they decide the weight a charge bar throws? I assume #8 as anything larger will throw a lighter weight and keep pressures down. I'm sure some one has posted this before but thought it might be interesting.