12 gauge reloading

Robin

Can someone offer some pointers on a decent 12 ga shot shell reloading set up. It can be a low volume/production type set-up. My retired neighbor was an avid shooter that has knee problems and can't get around like he used to. He offered to load some shells for us periodically if we supply the loader and materials.

Edit: Thanks to everyone for the suggestions. For a little extra I think the MEC jr may be the way to go. There will be several of us pitching in for the reloader and supplies so I think we'll spring for something better than the Lee II load all.

mrbruce

Other than the old style Lee loaders that pretty much do them one at a time with a mallet, the only other one that will be of good service for the money spent is the 600 jr MEC.
They can be bought new for around $100.00, or check the auction sites....

Wagon Wheel

Robin:

My choice as well. Parts are readily available and older models can be up-graded as a lot of parts are interchangeable (within gauge of course) or replaceable. I replaced parts on an old 600 Jr with Mark 5 parts. Same with the VersaMec. They provide excellent service as well. I would suggest you purchase (if going for new) from someone like Midway or some other retail outlet. You'll find the price lower than the list at Mec.

Mec Reloaders:
http://www.mecreloaders.com/
MidwayUSA - Shooting Supplies, Reloading, Gun Parts, Ammunition, Rifle Scopes & Airguns
http://www.midwayusa.com/

I have 6. (3 different gauges) Two over 35 (and a separate case conditioner), which have never required repair. Two over 30 that I've picked up used (on the Cheap) over the years that were damaged in storage/thru abuse or stripped for parts and reconditioned them with parts acquired directly from Mec. And two early model Mark 5's. I recently obtained, used, on a popular auction site. I also have a couple of gauge conversion kits should I need them. And Yes, One with a Steel shot conversion kit installed, also acquired directly from Mec. Should you want to load Brass hulls with pistol primers, they make a special primer-seating pad that will work on most/all single stage (Mec) presses. One glitch here, no part number and you must call Mec directly to order. Versatility, reliability, easy to operate and not to mention, they turn out GOOD shells. Love and use them all!!

As for that last stage; It's not that complicated but once you get one set for a particular hull (and load) little else ever needs more than minor adjustments. I would not let that deter me from buying an otherwise great machine. Besides, I would assume, your final crimp will need to be adjusted based on shell length and load with any machine. I can't speak to that or the level of difficulty, as all I use are the Mec's. I have set-ups for different hulls AND different loads, saves time doing adjustments and once you figure it out 1 machine will do more than 1 brand hull nicely. I have two set-ups for 12 gauge and basically have no problem with getting a great crimp on most shells without adjustment on one or the other. I will admit, it is easier change charge bars and bushings than adjust the final crimp at times.

charliemeyer007

Mec's are ok and I really like their super sizer for ammo that is going to be used in a tube magazine. My 37 Ithica can have problems with reloads that are not based sized (tight tube), the 870s Rem doesn't require such treatment (looser tube). I have 4 Pacific DL 155 presses that I really like. If you are going to load steel shot make sure the press is designed for that.

gotstolefrom

Don't forget to mention passing on the Lee 'plastic press' for shotgun reloading. An office mate had one, and I must admit, I was amazed ! I was amazed because it turned out some very nice loads from a $ 50=/- investment that looked like a P.O.S.

I saw a box of shells reloaded, so it made it that far. Sez he used it for 3 years "without a problem".
THAT SAID.....it looks like a break-o-matic, and somewhere down the line it will..lifetime guarantee or not...don't go there.

The Mec's mentioned will last your lifetime. They are tough and a bargain.
Mine is 40 years old and still going strong.
ENJOY !

Odawgp

I have a Lee great starter machine IMO don't buy the auto prime to say the least is sucks.

I have a Mec Jr 600 that i won at a trap shoot it has been great, there is a bit of learning curve at the last station.
it will last forever

both machines turn out some pretty good reloads

I shoot so much i finaly bought a used Pacific 366 in 12ga, it too makes some good reloads and quick too. I can load a flat (250) in about an hr, that is if everything goes right. there are 1 thing (powder drop)that has to happen every time you pull the lever and if it doesn't you could have 250 duds.

I will say try and load anything but winchester, I will damm them for ever for changing there AA hulls. I don't know what they where thinking ($$$$$) but DAMM they suck now.

bobski

mec600jr....bar none.[^]

ladams

MEC 600jr, do no, I repeat DO NOT get a Lee Load All. It is a total plastic pile that was a nightmare for me from day one. the extra few bucks put in a MEC gets you a steel press that is built for life.

jonk

I got the Lee Load all for free. For free it is just right. It is one of the few Lee products I don't fully endorse. It has about a 30% failure to crimp properly rate. If I were buying one I'd go with MEC.

JimmyJack

At $45 a bag for shot, you are better off to buy shells.