Understanding the 28 Gauge: A Sweet Spot in Shotgunning
Are you tired of the ever-increasing cost of 28 gauge shotgun shells? Do you find yourself shooting less because the price of ammunition is a significant barrier to enjoying your hobby? The good news is that there’s a solution: reloading. Reloading your own shotgun shells can save you money, allowing you to shoot more often and customize your loads to meet your specific needs. And when it comes to getting started in the world of reloading, the Lee Load All 28 Gauge offers an excellent, affordable, and user-friendly entry point. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the Lee Load All 28 Gauge, from its features and benefits to the step-by-step process of reloading your own shells. We’ll explore why the 28 gauge is a fantastic choice for reloading, discuss the components involved, and provide tips to ensure a safe and successful reloading experience. If you are new to the reloading process or simply looking for a cost-effective way to load your own 28 gauge shells, you have come to the right place.
The 28 gauge is a versatile shotgun bore, widely appreciated by hunters and target shooters alike. Its smaller size compared to the more common 12 and 20 gauges, offers a lighter and more balanced feel, making it a joy to carry and shoot. The shells themselves are compact, leading to less recoil, which can be particularly appealing to those new to shotgunning or those who appreciate a smoother shooting experience.
But why should you reload 28 gauge shells specifically? Several compelling reasons make it an attractive option. Firstly, 28 gauge ammunition can often be more expensive than its more popular counterparts. Reloading directly addresses this by significantly reducing the cost per shell. Secondly, reloading allows for incredible customization. You can tailor your loads to specific purposes, such as upland bird hunting, skeet, or trap shooting. You can experiment with different shot sizes, wad configurations, and powder loads to achieve the perfect performance for your needs. Finally, the ability to reload ensures a continuous supply of your favorite loads, even if factory ammunition is scarce.
The applications of the 28 gauge are diverse. It excels in upland game hunting, such as quail, dove, and woodcock, where its balance of shot capacity and manageable recoil is ideal. The 28 gauge is also a favorite among skeet shooters, known for its graceful flight characteristics and the challenge it presents. Moreover, it offers a delightful option for those who appreciate a lighter shotgun for recreational shooting and target practice. The 28 gauge gives you the versatility to engage in various activities with the same gauge.
Features and Benefits of the Lee Load All 28 Gauge: A Closer Look
The Lee Load All 28 Gauge is a manual reloading press known for its simplicity and affordability. Its design is straightforward, consisting of a frame that holds the various components used in the reloading process. The press is built from durable materials designed to withstand the pressures of shell reloading.
This press is packed with features. Its simplicity makes it exceptionally easy to learn. Beginners often find the manual process less intimidating than more complex, automated presses. The direct involvement in each step fosters a deeper understanding of the reloading process.
One of the primary advantages of the Lee Load All 28 Gauge is its affordability. Compared to more advanced reloading systems, this press represents a significantly lower initial investment. This makes it an excellent choice for those starting out in reloading or those seeking to reduce their reloading expenses. The Lee Load All 28 Gauge helps the average shooter save money in the long run.
The reloading process with the Lee Load All 28 Gauge is quick and efficient, particularly for those starting. With practice, you can reload shells relatively quickly, making it a practical option for regular shooters.
Its manual operation is another advantage. No electricity is required, which means you can reload shells anywhere, anytime. This makes the Lee Load All 28 Gauge an ideal companion for shooting trips or for reloading in spaces without convenient access to power.
While the primary focus is on 28 gauge, the Lee Load All series is also available in other gauges. This means if you decide to expand your reloading capabilities later, the Lee Load All can be part of the bigger picture.
Compared to more expensive, automated reloading presses, the Lee Load All 28 Gauge excels in its ease of use, low cost, and portability. While other presses might offer higher production rates, the Lee Load All is perfect for the casual shooter or beginner. This press gives new reloaders a head start, allowing them to explore reloading without breaking the bank.
The Reloading Process: A Step-by-Step Guide with the Lee Load All 28 Gauge
Reloading with your Lee Load All 28 Gauge is a process that requires careful attention to detail and a strict adherence to safety protocols. Before you begin, gather the necessary materials and tools.
You will need all of the standard reloading components: the hulls (spent shell casings), primers, powder, wads, and shot. Be sure to select the right types of all these components that are rated for use in 28 gauge and specifically for the load you intend to create.
You’ll also need your Lee Load All 28 Gauge reloading press, a reloading manual (such as the Lee Reloading Manual or other reputable sources), a powder scale for accurate powder measurement, a set of calipers for checking shell dimensions, a funnel, a wad guide, and safety glasses.
Safety First: Before You Start
Safety is paramount in reloading. Always wear eye protection to prevent any chance of injury. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling powder fumes. Double-check all measurements and loads before proceeding to the next step. Never mix powders or exceed the maximum load data specified in your reloading manual. It is absolutely critical to follow all the loading information very carefully.
The Reloading Steps
1. Hull Preparation: Begin by inspecting your hulls for damage or defects. Discard any hulls with cracks, splits, or signs of wear. Clean the hulls with a hull cleaner to remove any debris.
2. Priming: Place the hull in the priming station. Use the priming mechanism on the Lee Load All to seat the new primer firmly in the primer pocket. Ensure the primer is seated correctly, flush with or slightly below the base of the hull.
3. Powder Charging: Consult your reloading manual and carefully measure the correct amount of powder for your chosen load. Place the measured powder into the hull using a powder funnel.
4. Wad Seating: Place the wad onto the hull, usually with a wad guide that helps you center the wad. Push the wad down into the hull, ensuring it is seated correctly.
5. Shot Charging: Measure the correct amount of shot using your shot measure. Pour the shot into the hull on top of the wad.
6. Crimp: Place the loaded shell in the crimping station. Operate the press to close the shell. The Lee Load All 28 Gauge creates a star crimp, which seals the shell and helps contain the shot.
7. Quality Control: Once the shell is loaded, perform a final inspection. Check the overall length, crimp quality, and ensure everything looks correct. Use calipers to ensure the crimp is within acceptable dimensions and the shell is ready to be used.
Component Selection and Load Data: The Foundation of Success
Choosing the right components and following accurate load data is critical for safe and effective reloading.
Consider your hulls. Select 28 gauge hulls in good condition. High-quality hulls can be reloaded multiple times. Check for any damage or defects before reloading.
Primers are essential to ignite the powder charge. Select primers specifically designed for shotgun reloading and the 28 gauge. Use the primers specified in your chosen load data.
Powders are central to creating the power you will need. Choose powders designed for shotgun reloading. Consult your reloading manual and select a powder suitable for 28 gauge and your intended use (e.g., hunting, skeet).
Wads are designed to seal the bore and protect the shot during firing. Select the correct wad for your chosen hull and shot size. Wads are available in various designs.
Shot size and type are based on the target or game. Shot size will depend on your intended use. Steel, lead, and other shot types are available. Match your shot type with your intended purpose.
Finding reliable load data is essential. The Lee Reloading Manual is an excellent resource, along with data from powder manufacturers like Hodgdon or Alliant. Always consult reputable reloading manuals and websites. NEVER exceed the maximum load data. This is critical for your safety. The Lee reloading manual is also a great way to understand the Lee Load All 28 Gauge and what it can do.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Value
The Lee Load All 28 Gauge offers several advantages. Its affordability is a significant benefit, making reloading accessible to a wider audience. Its ease of use is very appealing. The simple, manual operation is well-suited for beginners. The press is compact and portable, perfect for reloading in limited spaces or taking on the go.
However, there are potential drawbacks to consider. The manual operation can be slower than automated presses, especially if you are reloading in large quantities. The Lee Load All may not have all the features of higher-end models. Durability can be an issue, although with proper care, the Lee Load All 28 Gauge will last a long time. Some users may require occasional minor adjustments.
Tips and Tricks: Mastering the Lee Load All 28 Gauge
Consistent results depend on careful attention to detail. Measure powder and shot accurately using a calibrated scale. Use the correct wads for your hulls and shot. Properly crimp shells.
Occasionally, you may encounter issues. If your shells don’t crimp properly, adjust the crimping station on your press. If you experience powder spills, ensure your powder measure is calibrated correctly. If you encounter priming problems, make sure the primer seating mechanism is properly aligned.
Proper maintenance is essential to keeping your press in optimal working condition. Clean the press regularly, especially after reloading large batches of shells. Keep the moving parts lubricated.
Comparison with Other Reloading Presses (Optional)
While the Lee Load All 28 Gauge is an excellent choice for beginners and those on a budget, other reloading presses are available. More expensive presses offer automated features, higher production rates, and more sophisticated functionalities. However, these presses also come with a higher price tag. For most beginner reloaders, the Lee Load All is a great place to start.
In Conclusion
Reloading with the Lee Load All 28 Gauge is a rewarding experience. The Lee Load All 28 Gauge provides a cost-effective and user-friendly way to produce high-quality 28 gauge shotgun shells. Its affordability, simplicity, and portability make it a great starting point for beginner reloaders. By carefully following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently start reloading. The Lee Load All 28 Gauge can save you money, improve your shooting skills, and allow you to customize your loads to match your shooting needs.
Reloading with a Lee Load All 28 Gauge can open up a new world of shooting possibilities. Don’t hesitate to get started. Research, gather your supplies, and load your own shells!
Resources
Lee Precision: (Link to the Lee Precision website)
Reloading Component Suppliers: (Links to reputable reloading component retailers)
Reloading Forums/Websites: (Links to online reloading communities for discussions and load data)
