Choosing the right powder for your 20 gauge reloading is crucial for safety, accuracy, and performance. This guide will delve into the factors to consider and highlight some top contenders for various 20 gauge applications. We'll explore different powder types, their characteristics, and how to select the optimal powder for your specific needs. Remember, always consult your reloading manual and follow its instructions meticulously before beginning any reloading process. Safety is paramount!
Understanding 20 Gauge Reloading Powders
The 20 gauge, a popular choice for both hunting and sport shooting, demands a powder that balances power and consistent performance. Several factors influence your powder selection:
- Shot Type: The type of shot (lead, steel, bismuth) you intend to use significantly affects the powder choice. Steel shot, for instance, requires a powder that generates higher pressure to achieve adequate velocity.
- Case Length: 20 gauge shells come in different lengths (2 ¾", 3"). The case length dictates the maximum powder charge you can safely use.
- Velocity Goal: Are you aiming for high-velocity rounds for long-range hunting or slower velocities for target shooting? This directly impacts powder selection.
- Pressure: Always stay within safe pressure limits specified by your reloading manual and the powder manufacturer. Exceeding these limits is extremely dangerous.
Top Powder Choices for 20 Gauge Reloading
This section outlines some of the best powders available for 20 gauge reloading, categorized by their common applications:
For High-Velocity Loads:
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Hodgdon Lil' Gun: Known for its high performance with lighter shot loads and its excellent burn rate for 20 gauge applications. It's a popular choice for high-velocity hunting loads. Caution: Lil' Gun is very sensitive to variations in charge weight, so precise measurement is essential.
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Alliant Power Pistol: A versatile powder suitable for various applications, including high-velocity 20 gauge loads. It’s known for its clean burning and consistent performance. Always refer to your reloading manual for specific load data.
For Target Loads:
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Clays: A very popular choice for target shooters due to its consistent performance and clean burn. This is a staple for many 20 gauge trap and skeet loads. It provides reliable results and minimizes fouling.
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Red Dot: Another excellent option for target loads, Red Dot offers good versatility and accuracy with a wide range of 20 gauge shot charges. It's known for its clean burn and gentle recoil.
For Hunting Loads:
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Unique: A versatile powder suitable for various hunting loads, Unique is known for its dependable performance and moderate recoil. It provides a good balance of power and shot pattern consistency for many hunting situations.
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Hodgdon Universal Clays: This powder offers excellent versatility, making it a suitable choice for many hunting applications, including various shot sizes and wad combinations. Check your manual for specific load data.
Case Study: Comparing Clays and Unique for 20 Gauge Target Loads
Let's compare Clays and Unique, two popular choices for 20 gauge target loads:
| Feature | Clays | Unique |
|---|---|---|
| Burn Rate | Faster | Slower |
| Recoil | Lower | Moderate |
| Versatility | High (mostly target) | High (target and hunting) |
| Cleanliness | Excellent | Good |
| Cost | Moderate | Moderate |
As you can see, both powders are excellent options, but their characteristics make them more suited to different needs. Clays excels for target shooting, where lower recoil and a clean burn are prioritized, while Unique offers a touch more versatility.
Choosing the Right Powder: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Consult Your Reloading Manual: This is the single most important step. Your manual provides load data specific to your equipment and desired performance.
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Identify Your Needs: Determine the type of shooting (hunting, target), shot type, and desired velocity.
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Research Powder Options: Review powder characteristics and select a powder that matches your needs.
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Start with Minimum Loads: Always begin with the minimum recommended load in your manual and gradually work up to your desired velocity. Never exceed the maximum recommended load.
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Test and Adjust: Test your loads on the range to ensure accuracy and performance.
Safety First!
Remember, reloading ammunition is inherently dangerous. Always adhere to strict safety protocols, including:
- Wearing safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Working in a well-ventilated area.
- Following the instructions in your reloading manual precisely.
- Properly disposing of spent primers and other waste.
By following this guide and prioritizing safety, you can confidently select the best powder for your 20 gauge reloading needs and enjoy accurate, reliable performance on the range or in the field. Remember to always prioritize safe practices and consult your reloading manual before starting any reloading project.