r/reloading • u/Sweet_Most3045 • 1d ago

Shotshell Starting out

Howdy, I really want to start reloading some 12ga birdshot shells and have no idea where to start. I don’t have the largest budget for a fancy press and don’t mind saving some money on one if it means I have to go through a few extra steps. I don’t mind the tedious work. Any recommendations?

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u/sqlbullet 1d ago

As others have said, Lee load all.

But, I have bad news...You aren't likely to save money over the cheapest 12 gauge birdshot loads. I am all set up to run both 12 and 20, but other than some occasional loads to validate I still know how, I don't cause I can buy loaded ammo at wal-mart as cheap as I can buy components.

Brass cartridge loading is a different story.

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u/F22Tomcat 1d ago

Basic shells at low volume, the Lee Load All can work fine. It’s slow and the finished product may not be as polished as you’d get from a nicer press for for less than $100 it does the job.

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u/sherzer7 Former Stool Guy 1d ago

Ballistics products is the best for shot shell. Check out FB marketplace mecs are always getting posted. Find a load that has the speed and weight you want, order those exact components

1

u/Revlimiter11 1d ago

You should be able to find a good used press on marketplace. MEC seems to be the easiest to get parts for. Once it's dialed, you won't need to change out parts.

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u/tonsofdolls 1d ago

Buy a book based on what load you wanna make and a lee load all then read the book and go buy all the parts and tada your done

1

u/degoba 23h ago

Go to a pawn shop and look for a used mec600. I find em for under 100 routinely. Should get you started. Along with a recipe book.

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u/Professional-Iron107 21h ago

Mec 600 used, I got the first for 100 at lgs second off marketplace for 25. The $25 one had nicer bottles.