Why Choose Claybuster Wads?
Reloading shotgun shells represents a fascinating blend of practicality and passion. It’s a path that transforms spent casings into custom-tailored ammunition, offering the satisfying ability to control every aspect of your shotgun loads. This control translates directly into cost savings and allows for personalized ammunition tailored to your specific shooting needs, whether you’re hitting clay targets or pursuing game in the field. For those venturing into this rewarding hobby, Remington hulls have long been a popular and accessible foundation. And when it comes to choosing the right components, Claybuster wads stand out as a top choice for reloaders seeking consistent performance and value. This comprehensive guide will explore the world of Claybuster wads and how they seamlessly integrate with your Remington hull reloading projects.
A Legacy of Trust
Claybuster wads have cultivated a strong reputation within the reloading community, earning the trust of shooters across various disciplines. This is not simply about producing wads; it’s about delivering consistency, reliability, and accuracy. Their wad designs have been rigorously tested and proven in the field, giving shooters the confidence they need to perform at their best. From competitive clay target shooting to hunting, the consistent performance of Claybuster wads helps to make sure that every shot counts.
The Economics of Reloading
One of the major appeals of reloading is the opportunity for significant cost savings. Buying factory-loaded ammunition can become expensive, especially for frequent shooters. By reloading your own shells, you can drastically reduce your per-shell cost. Claybuster wads play a crucial role in this savings equation. Generally, Claybuster wads are known for being affordable and provide an excellent value. This is especially true when compared to some of the premium wad brands. Over time, the savings from using Claybuster wads, combined with the benefits of purchasing shot, primers, and powder in bulk, adds up considerably.
Performance at the Forefront
The primary function of a wad is to contain and protect the shot, ensuring proper shot cup formation as it travels down the barrel. Claybuster wads are engineered with exceptional design features that support superior shot patterns. They contribute to consistent downrange performance, a critical factor whether you’re aiming for breaking clay targets or taking aim at game. Their innovative design effectively seals the gasses behind the shot column, preventing them from escaping and disrupting the shot pattern. This means more pellets arriving at the target, leading to improved accuracy.
A Variety for Every Need
No two shooters are the same, and neither are their shooting needs. Claybuster understands this diversity and provides a wide selection of wads to accommodate various Remington hull types and load requirements. Whether you are loading for 12-gauge, 20-gauge, or other gauges, Claybuster likely has a wad to match. This extensive selection allows reloaders to create loads for all kinds of shooting activities. Furthermore, their range includes wads suitable for different shot weights, allowing for the ability to fine-tune loads to match the specific shooting task at hand.
Compatibility: Claybuster Wads and Remington Hulls
The cornerstone of successful reloading lies in understanding the components and how they interact. Matching the right wad with the correct hull is fundamental for achieving optimal performance and safety. Let’s explore the specifics of Remington hulls and how to best pair them with Claybuster wads.
Understanding Remington Hulls
Remington hulls are a mainstay in the shotgun shell world, known for their durability, quality, and widespread availability. These hulls are manufactured in a variety of styles, each of which exhibits slightly different characteristics.
STS Hulls: These are premium-grade hulls, often favored by competitive shooters. They are known for their exceptional construction and consistency, resulting in multiple reloads.
Nitro 27 Hulls: Originally designed for long-range performance, these hulls also offer excellent reloading characteristics.
Gun Club Hulls: These provide an affordable option while maintaining good reloading performance. They are a popular choice for practice and general shooting.
The dimensions and construction of these different Remington hulls may vary slightly, which means it’s crucial to choose the correct wad to ensure proper function and crimp.
Matching Wads to the Hull
The following table provides a general guideline to help you match Claybuster wads with different Remington hull types. *Always* double-check the latest reloading data from reputable sources (e.g., powder manufacturer websites) and follow it precisely. *This is for reference only; reloading involves potential hazards. Always consult published load data.*
| Remington Hull Type | Suggested Claybuster Wad | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| STS | CB1100-12 | The CB1100-12 is designed to fit the STS hull perfectly. Other wads can also be employed, but it’s important to consult load data to ensure correct fit and crimp. |
| Gun Club | CB6100-12 | These hulls are also well-suited to a CB6100-12. It is essential to verify that the overall length fits the load and crimps correctly. |
| Nitro 27 | CB1100-12 | Given the quality and durability of Nitro 27 hulls, the same CB1100-12 can usually be used. As with any reloading process, refer to current load data for specific recommendations. |
It is of the utmost importance to use the correct wad for your chosen Remington hull type. The correct wad will make sure that the shot column is supported properly as it travels down the barrel. If a wad is not seated correctly, it can affect the overall performance of the shell and could potentially lead to dangerous results.
Loading Data and Best Practices
Reloading shotgun shells is a rewarding hobby, but it demands careful attention to safety and procedure. Before you begin, make sure you understand and follow these guidelines.
Prioritize Safety Above All Else
Safety should always be your top priority. When reloading, always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris. Always follow the published loading data provided by reputable sources, such as powder manufacturers (e.g., Alliant Powder, Hodgdon). This information is meticulously crafted to ensure safe and effective load performance. *Never* exceed the recommended load data, and *never* substitute components without explicit instructions from the data provider.
Sources of Reliable Data
To ensure you reload safely and effectively, it is essential to have reliable sources of loading data.
Powder Manufacturer Websites: Major powder manufacturers like Alliant and Hodgdon provide extensive online data for various loads, including those for Remington hulls and Claybuster wads.
Reloading Manuals: Publications from recognized brands such as Lyman are a great way to get trustworthy information.
Load Data Charts: Many online resources can provide load data, provided that they are from a trusted source. Always cross-reference information and be cautious about data that is not verifiable.
The Step-by-Step Process
While the specific steps may vary slightly depending on your reloading equipment and components, the basic reloading process remains the same:
Sizing: Use a resizing die to restore the hull to its original dimensions. This is essential for proper primer seating and helps prevent any pressure-related issues.
Priming: Insert a new primer. Use a priming tool to seat the primer completely and ensure it is flush with the base of the hull.
Powder Charging: Use a powder measure to dispense the correct amount of powder, as prescribed by your chosen load data.
Wad Insertion: Seat the Claybuster wad into the hull, ensuring it is fully seated and at the correct depth, as per your data.
Shot Charging: Add the desired amount of shot, as specified in your load data.
Crimping: Use a crimping die to close the shell. A good crimp is essential for proper burn and shot containment.
Key Considerations for Success
Proper Crimping: A consistent and effective crimp is essential for proper ignition and shot containment. Inspect your finished shells to ensure the crimp is properly formed.
Consistent Powder Drops: Use a precise powder measure. Consistency in the powder charge directly impacts the performance of your load.
Shot Weight: Ensure you use the exact shot weight from your load data. Over- or under-loading the shot can affect shot patterns and create unsafe pressures.
Troubleshooting: Keep an eye out for common reloading problems, such as bulged hulls, poor crimps, or inconsistent shot patterns. Always cease loading at once if any issue is suspected and thoroughly inspect your equipment and components.
Choosing the Right Claybuster Wad
Selecting the appropriate Claybuster wad is crucial for maximizing performance. Consider these factors when making your choice:
Gauge and Shot Weight
Claybuster wads are designed to be compatible with various gauges, including 12-gauge, 20-gauge, 28-gauge, and .410 bore. Make sure to select the wad designed for your gauge. The amount of shot in your load affects wad selection. If you load 1 ounce of shot in your 12 gauge, be sure to use a wad that supports a 1-ounce load. If you use a wad that does not support a 1-ounce load, this may result in poor shot patterns, or the wad may fail to seal the gasses properly.
Shot Size and Intended Use
The size of the shot you plan to use should guide your wad selection. Smaller shot sizes are typically used for skeet, trap, and sporting clays. Bigger shot sizes work well for hunting. If you’re reloading for a particular sport or type of hunting, match the shot size you will use to the proper wad.
Factors Influencing Wad Selection
Powder type is a factor, as certain wads are designed to complement the burning characteristics of different powder types. Additionally, the design of the wad itself, including the shot cup and gas seal, will contribute to performance. Understand that gas seals will perform differently. Therefore, it’s vital to consult your loading data and select a wad designed to work well with the powder and shot size.
Where to Buy Claybuster Wads
Claybuster wads can be found through numerous retailers, both online and in-person.
Online Retailers: Numerous online reloading supply stores (e.g., MidwayUSA, Natchez Shooting Supplies, Graf & Sons, Midsouth Shooters Supply) provide a comprehensive selection of Claybuster wads.
Local Retailers: Check your local gun stores and sporting goods stores. These stores often stock a variety of reloading components, including Claybuster wads.
Conclusion
Reloading Remington hulls with Claybuster wads represents a smart decision for those looking to take control of their ammunition. Claybuster wads provide consistent performance, value, and a broad selection, guaranteeing you’ll be able to find the right combination for your specific shooting needs. Remember, safe reloading practices are paramount. By carefully following loading data, selecting the right components, and paying close attention to detail, you can create high-quality ammunition that delivers the performance you expect. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or are new to reloading, Claybuster wads are an excellent choice for your Remington hull reloading endeavors.
Additional Resources
Alliant Powder: [https://www.alliantpowder.com/]
Hodgdon Powder Company: [https://hodgdon.com/]
Claybuster Wads: [Research the Claybuster website for wad model information and specifications].
Remember to always check your local laws and regulations regarding ammunition reloading. Good luck and happy reloading!
