How to properly load 16 gauge ammunition

Smoothbore weapons loaded with pellet ammunition are among the most popular among hunters. And that's the main reason why novice shooters often wonder how to properly load 16-gauge cartridges. You can find answers to the most important questions on this topic in our new article.

In practice, the 16 gauge is a universal caliber. It is used by both experienced hunters and those who are just starting out. However, beginners consume ammunition faster, which leads to higher financial costs. Learning how to load ammunition yourself can help you save a lot of money. This is one of the main advantages of self-loading ammunition. In addition, having mastered such a useful skill, you will be confident in the quality of the equipment.

Another important advantage of self-loading 16-gauge ammunition is the control of the shelf life of components. The fact is that manufacturers sometimes load ammunition with powder that has almost expired. Keep in mind that the product packaging indicates the expiration date from the date the ammunition was loaded. Expired powder is dangerous when used for hunting large and dangerous animals, as it may not produce the desired result.

The third reason is that when you load your own ammunition, you can take into account the peculiarities of the weapon and minimize its wear by adjusting the powder weight. This means that your gun will have a longer service life. By using high-quality dry powder, you protect all elements of the receiver from corrosion. In addition, 16-gauge cartridges can be equipped with both pellets and buckshot.

The downside of self-loading ammunition is the need to purchase equipment, which will initially cost more than purchasing quality ammunition. Of course, you should also take into account the fact that the procedure for loading ammunition is long and laborious, requiring a sufficient amount of free time.

Before starting the ammunition loading process, prepare:

• an ammunition stand,
• a funnel with which to fill the powder and shot,
• a dusting bowl,
• scales with weights of different weights,
• a device for removing and installing capsules,
• a measuring container.

If you bought a used machine, first clean it thoroughly of dust and debris and lubricate it with industrial oil.

Pay attention to the choice of scales. The best option is a pharmacy scale, as it most accurately shows the mass in milligrams. Household scales are suitable only if they measure weight without errors.

If the sleeves are made of brass, then you won't need a device for capsules - it won't cope with bending metal edges. In this case, a wax filling is carried out, which prevents the shot from spilling out.

The place where the self-arming will be carried out should be isolated from outsiders and have low humidity to prevent the powder from getting wet. It can be a workshop, shed or garage.

The rolling machine is a conventional vice with special clamps. It can be installed on any flat surface. A flat-soled screw allows you to securely fix it.

The bevel can be shaped like a circle or a star. Consider this when choosing a machine. Before you buy it, check its integrity.

We load 16-gauge ammunition only if we have all the necessary equipment and in a strictly defined order. Before starting the process, carefully read the step-by-step instructions.

1. Processing the casings and installing the capsule

Inspect the casings. Products with nicks, cracks, tears, and other defects cannot be reloaded.

After checking the cartridge cases, start measuring the required amount of powder charge. To determine how much powder you will need, we recommend that you rely on the manufacturer's instructions. As a rule, such information is indicated on the packaging. Approximately, the volume of shot and charge is 15 to 18. If the figure is closer to 15, then the shooting will be less coarse, but with a sharp fight. If the charge ratio is closer to 18, the accuracy of the shot will be higher, but it will be less sharp. Choose the right ratio for you to give the ammunition the desired parameters.

The market offers a large selection of different brands of powder. Choose only high-quality raw materials, as this is a guarantee of your safety and the expected result.

2. Filling the powder and setting the fuses

After the amount of powder is measured, fill it into the cartridge case and press it in carefully. Next, a special gasket must be placed in the cartridge. It is placed directly on top of the powder.

3. Adding the shot and final rolling

In the next step, measure out the required amount of shot or buckshot according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Pour the material inside the cartridge case over the tightly inserted gasket.

Good to know! When choosing a striking element, you must take into account the size of the object you are going to hunt. The smaller the bird or animal, the finer the shot you will need. For example, for snipes, fine pellets No. 7, 8, 9 are suitable. For ducks and grouse, you'll need a larger pellet - No. 4, 5, 6. When hunting a hare, the cartridges are loaded with pellets of caliber No. 2-00. Deer or wild boar can be shot with 16-caliber cartridges equipped with buckshot.

To increase the accuracy, we recommend using plastic containers. They are inserted into the cartridge cases and then filled with shot and powder.

Then the edges of the cartridge case are rolled using a special machine. It is important to mark the pellet number on the case body with a marker to avoid confusing the characteristics of the cartridges in the future.

The safety of both the shooter and the people around him depends on how well the ammunition is loaded. Therefore, it is extremely important to check the result after loading ammunition.

The most common mistakes when loading ammunition yourself:

• Incorrect powder loading: too little or too much powder can lead to unstable cartridge performance.
• Uneven packing of the shot: this can cause uneven pressure and shot dispersion.
• Use of unsuitable components: for example, too much fouling can affect the sharpness of the shot.

Pay attention to the recommendations of experienced shooters who advise you to carefully select components and follow the equipment technology.

How to check the finished cartridge

During the process of self-loading 16-gauge ammunition, it is important to check the powder charge at least three times. Even the most experienced shooters never neglect this step.

To check the quality of the finished ammunition, carefully inspect the case and make sure it is of good quality. In order to produce high-quality, effective, and safe ammunition, you should constantly improve your skills in practice.

What to do if you find a defect

If the ammunition does not meet the requirements, it can be disassembled and reloaded:​

• Disassembly: carefully remove all components of the cartridge.
• Component inspection: check the quality of all components.
• Re-assembly: Ensure that the components are attached in the correct position and sequence.
• Using specialized tools, such as a case crimping press, will greatly improve the quality of your gear.

If you want to learn how to shoot really accurately, it is best to turn to experienced professionals. For example, to the Darwin Club shooting club, where you will be helped to acquire and hone the necessary skills in practice.