· top picks · 6 min read
Best 5 20 Gauge Reloders: reloading ammunition made simple
This roundup reviews the best 20 gauge reloaders on the market, comparing features and performance to help you choose the right equipment for your reloading needs.
Reloaders seeking versatility and reliability will find the perfect balance in 20 gauge ammunition. Our guide reviews the top reloadable options, highlighting their performance and value for money.
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Reviews
MEC Mayville 1 1/8 Ounce Steel Shot Charge Bar
The MEC Mayville 1 1/8 ounce steel shot charge bar is crafted from durable anodized aluminum with a soft insert to prevent shearing when loading tougher shot types. It works seamlessly with MEC’s removable powder charge bushings (sold separately) to give you precise control over your load weights. Whether you’re a first-time loader or a seasoned reloader, these charge bars make it easy to get the right amount of shot in your shells every time.
Freeman PFWS Professional Fine Wire Stapler
The air-powered 20-gauge stapler handles fine wire staples between 1/4” and 9/16” with ease, making it perfect for projects like insulation work and screen repair. Its lightweight aluminum construction and Teflon-coated parts promise durability without added bulk, while the ergonomically designed handle cuts down on fatigue during long sessions. The 360-degree exhaust system keeps airflow away from your face, ensuring a comfortable working position throughout your project.
MEC Progressive 9mm Steel Shot Charge Bar
This aluminum charge bar makes reloading steel shot quick and accurate, with a soft insert to protect your shot from getting sliced up. It’s part of a system that lets you load 12 gauge shells with #5 and #6 steel shot, measuring out 7/8 of an ounce at a time. Perfect for state regulations that ban lead shot, it helps you knock out a big batch of shells before you know it.
MEC Progressive 9000GN 20 Gauge Reloader
With its fully automatic primer feed and auto-cycle charging, the 9000GN progressive press makes quick work of reloading spent shells. The Power Ring collet resizer ensures each shell comes out perfectly sized, while the three-stage crimp gives you consistent results every time. The E-Z Prime feeder and 1/2-ounce charge bar make it a breeze to load up, whether you’re working with steel or brass hulls.
Banks 20 Gauge 7/16” Wide Crown Stapler 58222
This lightweight air stapler makes quick work of any general wood-fasting task, with its 100-staple magazine and 7/16” crown staples. The one-handed reload feature and compact design save time in tight spaces, while the powerful yet precise triggering mechanism keeps your project looking professional. With durability backed by positive user reviews, it’s a practical upgrade from manual staplers for both DIY and light upholstery jobs.
Buyer’s Guide
20 gauge reloading is an exciting way to customize your ammunition, offering flexibility and cost savings for shotgun enthusiasts. Understanding the key aspects of 20 gauge reloading will help you get the most out of your reloading equipment while ensuring consistent, safe results.
Components and Materials
Key components include brass casings, primers, powder measuring devices, and bullet seating dies. Brass quality significantly impacts performance and reliability, while accurate measuring equipment ensures proper charge weight and consistency.
Reloading Tools and Equipment
Essential tools include presses that support 20 gauge cartridges, powder scales with gram precision, and primer holders. High-quality equipment prevents errors and extends the lifespan of both your components and reloading equipment.
Safety Considerations
Follow strict safety protocols, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and store components securely. Regularly inspect equipment for wear and proper function to prevent malfunctions and ensure safe reloading practices.
Load Development
Start with reliable load recipes and gradually experiment to find optimal combinations. Proper load development requires patience and attention to detail, focusing on consistent crimping depth, proper primer seat depth, and optimal powder charge.
FAQ
What is a 20 gauge reloader?
A 20 gauge reloader is specialized equipment designed for resizing and reloading shotgun shells in the. 20 bore diameter. This tool helps shooters reload their own ammunition, offering cost savings and customization options.
Compatibly with various reloading components, 20 gauge reloaders enable users to size brass cases, seat and crimp shotgun wads, and install shot or pellet loads, all while maintaining proper chamber dimensions for safety and optimal performance.
Which brass cases are suitable for 20 gauge reloading?
Common brass case types used for 20 gauge reloading include Nosler, Winchester, Remington, and Federal brands, typically chambered in 20 gauge or. 22 Longrifles. The brass should be in good condition, free from corrosion and proper dimensions for consistent reloading.
Brass can originate from both commercial reloading sources and reclaimed spent shells, but it’s essential to ensure consistent case neck sizes and straight walls for optimal reloading results.
Can I reload 20 gauge shells with different shot sizes?
Yes, 20 gauge reloaders allow for various shot sizes, from small shot for waterfowl hunting to larger loads for general-purpose shooting. The specific capacity and configuration of your reloading equipment determine the maximum shot size you can safely handle.
It’s crucial to verify your equipment’s specifications and guidelines, as overloading or using inappropriate shot sizes can compromise safety and performance.
What safety considerations are important when reloading 20 gauge shells?
Key safety considerations include proper brass case inspection for cracks or deformation, correct primer seating depth, and consistent powder charge volumes. Each step must be performed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to prevent pressure-related failures and ensure reliable firearm function.
Always verify chamber dimensions with your specific firearm and reload ammunition according to published loads for your gun model to prevent brass expansion and potential misfires.
How often should I maintain my 20 gauge reloader?
Regular maintenance of your 20 gauge reloader includes checking and cleaning each component, lubricating moving parts, and verifying dimensions against manufacturer specifications. This routine care helps maintain accuracy, prolongs equipment life, and ensures safe operation.
At minimum, perform a thorough inspection before each use, conducting more detailed maintenance sessions quarterly or after significant use to catch developing issues.
What are the advantages of 20 gauge reloading?
Reloading offers cost savings by allowing you to purchase brass and powder quantities and store unspent rounds. It also enables customization of shot size, load type, and wad configurations for specific shooting needs, providing broader load options than factory-produced ammunition.
Additionally, reloading allows shooters to practice precise ammunition management, understand load characteristics, and develop consistent reloading techniques, enhancing both shooting skills and equipment knowledge.
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