Hi there,

I'm looking to get a reloader for loading goose ammo and maybe buckshot. This will be for hunting loads only, not the trap range. What's the best low volume reloader on the market? I'm particularly concerned about crimp quality, which I understand to be a serious issue.

Thanks

MEC 600/700 series. No contest.

I'll happily vote MEC as well.

I'd vote for the MEC as well, but for hunting loads, I'd spend the few extra bucks and get the collet resizer --- so I'd recommend the Sizemaster. HTH, Dutch.

Is the 600 Jr. or the Sizemaster/Steelmaster the way to go?

Ah, I see that you posted while I was writing my question.

Thanks for the hint.

ballisticsproducts.com may be of help to you in loading buck and water fowl shot shells. They have an exhaustive line of wads and technical support in making up good hunting loads.

The best low volume reloader on the market is the new Ponsness/Warren 375 with the new taper crimp.

I agree with all those who recommend the MEC. The MEC reloaders are incredibly reliable, they are widely available so it's not difficult to find parts and accessories for them, you can get them used cheaply, and they make ammunition that is as good as what can be achieved using any other tools.

PW-375 is about as good as it gets,

The various MECS you see for $50 used will do.

For gosh sakes DO NOT buy the cheap plastic Lee machine.

Mec is the best for the money IMHO.

Better purchase them before the EOY as in January all Mec products will have a 10% increase in costs by the Mfg.

Another vote for Ponsness Warren. My dad has been useing the same 375c since the late seventies and it still functions like new.

One thing I like about the PW is the resizing die set up. Works better than the MEC collet type resizing system IMO.

MEC Sizemaster.....

MEC Sizemaster....

quote:

Originally posted by Scota4570:

For gosh sakes DO NOT buy the cheap plastic Lee machine.

I agree completely with that advice.

If you can find one, I'd look for a Pacific 266 (I think, I'd have to go look at the model #, it is a single stage). These are inline straight across in front of you. I like them, they're faster than the Mecs and a good stout piece of equipment.

But, that said, the Mec and certainly, the PW are up to the task. If I was you, my purchase would depend mostly on price. It probably doesn't matter which one you get, you're going to buy another one later.

I have been using a used Ponsness Warren 375 for my trap reloads. It's definately a low volume reloader-read one at a time. But then I'm not in a hurry. I find the condition of the hull has a lot to do with the resulting reload. If the hull is in good shape up near the crimp the finished shell looks like it came out of a factory box.

After I bought the loader I spent a couple of hours cleaning and lubricating the mechanism. I gotta saya for what I have into it, the resulting shells are great. I am very happy with it.

I have 5 MEC's and for your needs I think I would have to agree with the collet sizing on a machine. I like MEC Steel Master, and with a few extra pieces, being adapter plates, you can load 2 3/4, 3", and 3 1/2" shells good as factory new.
I purchased mine from Precesion Reloading, which has recently moved to the Dakotas I think.
They have expertise in hunting loads, hulls, and lots of other stuff to make your credit card tingle with delight.
I can not argue with PW, or Spolar, or even Dillon reloaders for quality and service. I have not used any other brands. I will say that Precesion Reloading has always been helpful, and reasonable in their pricing.
I would suggest that if available you purchase an adjustable charge bar to replace bushings but keep in mind that steel shot may require a different insert in the bar. (You may need a second bar for steel shot).
3 of my loaders are 600JR's, 1 Steel Master, and one 9000G progressive. I am hoping to buy a couple more 9000G's if I can work them into the budget.