Choosing the right 12 gauge hulls for reloading can significantly impact the performance and reliability of your ammunition. This guide delves into the key factors to consider and highlights some of the best 12 gauge hulls available, catering to various shooting disciplines and budgets. We'll cover everything from material and construction to primer pockets and crimp styles, helping you make an informed decision for your reloading needs.
Understanding 12 Gauge Hull Components and Material
Before diving into specific hull recommendations, let's briefly explore the crucial components of a 12 gauge hull and the materials used in their construction. Understanding these aspects is essential for selecting hulls that meet your specific requirements.
Key Components:
- Basewad: This component seals the primer and forms the bottom of the hull. The material and design influence the reliability of the primer seal and the overall strength of the hull.
- Body: The main body of the hull holds the powder, wad, and shot. Material strength and durability determine the hull's resistance to splitting or cracking under pressure.
- Head: The top of the hull where the crimp forms. The head design affects the ease of reloading and the overall quality of the crimp.
- Primer Pocket: This houses the primer. The size and shape of the pocket must perfectly accommodate the selected primer type.
- Crimp: The method of closing the hull to retain the shot and wad. Different crimp styles exist, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Common Materials:
- Paper: Generally the most economical option. Paper hulls can be more susceptible to damage and moisture.
- Plastic (Polypropylene): More durable than paper hulls and offer better resistance to moisture and damage. They’re typically more expensive.
- Fiber: A blend of paper and plastic offering a compromise between cost and durability.
Factors to Consider When Choosing 12 Gauge Hulls
Selecting the right 12 gauge hulls involves careful consideration of several factors:
- Shooting Discipline: The type of shooting you engage in (e.g., trap, skeet, hunting) influences the desired hull characteristics. High-volume shooters might prioritize durability and ease of reloading, while hunters might favor hulls that perform well in diverse weather conditions.
- Budget: Hull prices vary significantly. Paper hulls are typically the cheapest, while some premium plastic hulls command a higher price.
- Gauge and Shot Size: Ensure the hulls are compatible with the desired gauge and shot size.
- Primer Pocket: Different hulls have different primer pocket sizes (e.g., 209, 686, 209A). Select hulls compatible with your chosen primers.
- Crimp Style: Different crimp styles (e.g., roll crimp, star crimp) influence reloading ease and the overall shell integrity.
Best 12 Gauge Hulls for Reloading: A Top Picks List
The following are some consistently well-regarded 12 gauge hulls for reloaders:
| Hull Manufacturer | Model | Material | Crimp Style | Pros | Cons | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remington | Gun Club | Plastic | Roll Crimp | Durable, consistent performance, readily available | Can be slightly more expensive than others | Trap, Skeet, Hunting |
| Remington | STS | Plastic | Roll Crimp | High-quality, suitable for high-pressure loads | Higher price point | High-volume shooters, serious competitors |
| Federal | Gold Medal | Plastic | Roll Crimp | Durable, consistent performance | Higher price point | Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays |
| Winchester | AA | Plastic | Roll Crimp | Excellent reputation, consistent performance | Can be pricey | High-volume shooters, various disciplines |
| Fiochi | (various models) | Plastic/Paper | Varies | Affordable options, good for practice | Quality may vary slightly between models | Budget-conscious reloaders |
| Rio | (various models) | Plastic | Varies | Good balance of price and performance | Availability can vary regionally | Practice, hunting |
Note: Hull availability can vary based on regional distribution and demand. Always check with your local reloading supply store for current availability.
Case Study: Comparing Remington Gun Club and STS Hulls
Let’s consider a comparison of two popular Remington hulls: the Gun Club and the STS. Both are plastic, roll-crimp hulls, but the STS is designed for higher-pressure loads and often shows increased durability over thousands of reloads. The Gun Club, however, is a more economical choice that still delivers excellent performance for many shooters. The choice depends on your budget and the types of loads you’re planning to reload.
Maintaining and Storing Reloaded 12 Gauge Hulls
Proper care and storage are essential to prolong the life of your reloaded hulls:
- Cleanliness: Clean hulls thoroughly after each reloading session. Remove any unburnt powder or debris.
- Drying: Allow hulls to dry completely before storage to prevent rust and damage.
- Storage: Store hulls in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Consider using hull containers or trays to organize and protect them.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for selecting the best 12 gauge hulls for your reloading needs. Remember that personal preferences and shooting styles play a significant role in the final decision. Experimenting with different brands and models can help you determine the ideal hull for your specific requirements. Always follow safe reloading practices and consult reloading manuals for specific data and load recommendations.