Understanding Hodgdon Longshot Powder
Characteristics of Longshot
The satisfying thud of a perfectly loaded shotgun shell ejecting from your firearm. That feeling of knowing you crafted the round yourself, tailored to your specific needs and gun. This is the essence of handloading, or reloading. It’s a craft that combines precision, passion, and a deep respect for the firearm and its performance. It’s also a fantastic way to save money, fine-tune ammunition to your specific requirements, and ensure a more consistent shooting experience.
At the heart of successful reloading lies a fundamental pillar: reliable data. Without accurate information, the reloading process becomes inherently dangerous and potentially destructive to both the shooter and their firearm. One of the most popular choices for shotgun reloaders, especially those working with 12-gauge loads, is Hodgdon Longshot powder. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and utilizing Hodgdon Longshot Reloading Data, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to safely and effectively reload your shotgun shells.
Safety Precautions
Hodgdon Longshot is a ball-type propellant, renowned in the reloading world for its excellent performance in 12-gauge shotgun shells. It is specifically designed to achieve high velocities, particularly with heavier payloads, while still maintaining reasonable pressures. Its design makes it very popular for upland bird hunting, waterfowl, and sporting clays.
This powder is recognized for its relatively slow burn rate. This slow burn rate facilitates those higher velocities with substantial shot charges while, in many cases, keeping the pressure levels within safe limits. Longshot provides a relatively consistent burn, resulting in shot patterns that are known for their quality.
Sources for Hodgdon Longshot Reloading Data
Hodgdon’s Website
The availability of accurate and reliable reloading data is the foundation for a safe and successful reloading experience. Several primary sources provide the necessary information for Hodgdon Longshot reloading.
One of the most direct and trustworthy sources is the manufacturer itself, Hodgdon. Hodgdon’s website is an invaluable resource, offering a wealth of data tailored to different components and loads. Typically, you’ll find an easy-to-navigate interface. You can select your components: the hull, wad, primer, and shot weight, which leads to a very specific charge weight for Longshot. This is generally presented in a clear, concise format, eliminating ambiguity and promoting safety. The website regularly updates its data, so ensure you are accessing the most current information to avoid discrepancies.
Reloading Manuals
Reloading manuals are considered the pillars of reloading knowledge, containing comprehensive data for a vast array of powders, bullets, and components. Reputable manuals from Lyman, Hornady, and Speer, among others, include detailed information for reloading with Hodgdon Longshot. These manuals provide a wider array of load options and combinations, expanding your reloading versatility. The manuals go into detail, discussing the effects of different primers, wads, and hulls, giving you a broader view of how different components impact your shots. It is highly recommended that reloaders keep up with the newest edition of the reloading manuals, as the data is frequently updated to accommodate technological advances in powder manufacturing and component design.
Other Online Resources
The internet is a vast reservoir of information, yet it is also where misinformation can thrive. While forums and websites devoted to reloading can be useful for sharing experiences and insights, use them with caution. Never use any load data that cannot be verified by a primary source (Hodgdon’s website or reputable reloading manual). Always cross-reference information to ensure accuracy and safety. Be extremely wary of load data found on unofficial sources; it could be inaccurate and unsafe. Only consider data from a verified source, double-check it, and proceed with caution.
Interpreting Hodgdon Longshot Reloading Data
Understanding Data Tables
Understanding the organization of reloading data tables is essential for a successful reloading process. Let’s delve into how to read and utilize this critical information.
Data tables typically present information in columns, each representing a specific component or measurement. These columns typically include the hull type, wad type, primer type, shot weight, and most importantly, the powder charge. The data tables often display a range of powder charges.
The powder charge is the crucial figure. It’s the amount of Hodgdon Longshot you should use, measured in grains (gr). Alongside the powder charge, you’ll find data related to the velocity (typically expressed in feet per second, fps) of the shot, as well as pressure measurements (usually in pounds per square inch, PSI). Always use the exact components specified in the data table. Using different components can significantly change the pressure and performance of the load.
Reading Data
Here’s a look at an example from a Hodgdon Longshot reloading data table (this is for demonstration and not a real load):
*Hull: Remington STS*
*Wad: Remington RXP*
*Primer: Federal 209A*
*Shot: 1 1/8 oz Lead Shot*
*Powder Charge: 26.5 gr Hodgdon Longshot – Velocity: 1200 fps – Pressure: 9,800 PSI*
This load chart is telling us that to achieve 1200 feet per second of velocity with 1 1/8 oz of shot, with the specified components, we use 26.5 grains of Longshot powder. Note the pressure, this is essential.
Key Considerations
Understanding these figures and how they relate to each other will allow you to make sound reloading decisions. Begin with a charge slightly below the recommended maximum and then, carefully, increase it.
Pressure is the most important factor to consider when reloading. Excessive pressure can damage your firearm and lead to injury. Always be aware of any signs of excessive pressure such as flattened primers, swelling of the shell base, or difficult extraction of the fired shell.
The Reloading Process with Hodgdon Longshot
Required Equipment
Reloading involves several precise steps, each demanding attention to detail. The process requires specific equipment for safe, reliable loads.
A reloading press is the heart of your setup. A good press provides a platform for all the steps involved. You’ll need a powder scale for precise measurement of powder charges. A powder measure dispenses the powder accurately into the hull. Other essential tools are: a set of reloading dies for your shotgun gauge; a hull trimmer to ensure consistent hull length; a primer seating tool; a wad seating tool; and a crimping tool to close the loaded shell.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step one involves inspecting and preparing the hulls. After firing, you’ll need to inspect your hulls for any damage. Discard any damaged shells. Then, you will need to remove the old primer and resize the shell base with the proper die.
Step two is priming. You’ll need to insert a new primer into the primer pocket, ensuring it is seated correctly.
Step three is the crucial powder charging step. Carefully measure the correct amount of Hodgdon Longshot with your powder measure and transfer it into the hull. Use a powder scale to confirm accuracy. Always begin with the starting charge in your data and progressively increase in small increments.
Step four requires you to seat the wad, pushing it down into the hull, ensuring it is correctly seated against the powder.
Step five is the addition of the shot. Carefully measure and pour the correct shot weight into the wad, ensuring that you are using the right shot size.
Step six is crimping. Use your crimping tool to close the shell, ensuring a tight and consistent crimp.
Step seven is quality control, including checking the overall length of the loaded shell. Double-check all measurements and components to ensure each shell adheres to your specified data.
Precision and consistency are paramount. Keep track of any changes to your load.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Low Velocity
If you experience low velocity, the most common cause is an insufficient powder charge or, in some cases, a problem with the crimp. Double-check your powder measure and scale to confirm that the powder charge is accurate. If the crimp is not sealed correctly, it may be allowing some of the gases to escape, thus diminishing performance.
High Pressure
High pressure, a dangerous situation, can be caused by several things. Excessive powder charges or an incorrect selection of components often lead to excessive pressure. If you see signs of excessive pressure such as flattened primers or swelling of the shell base, you’ll need to stop immediately. This is a sign that your load is exceeding the maximum pressure for your gun.
Inconsistent Patterns
Inconsistent patterns, another common issue, can be caused by poor wad fit, or a crimp that isn’t consistently executed. Make sure the wad is seated correctly. Inspect the crimp for consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid common mistakes like overloading shells, mixing components, or using unreliable data. Always adhere to proper safety guidelines.
Best Practices and Tips for Hodgdon Longshot Reloading
Staying Safe
Remember that safety is the foremost priority. Always work in a well-ventilated area. Double-check every measurement.
Maintaining Consistency
To maintain consistency, use the same components every time you load. Consistent components and techniques are key to predictable results. Ensure proper powder handling, avoiding contamination.
Log Keeping
Keep a detailed reloading log. Record the load data, components used, and your observations about the performance of each load. The log will help you when experimenting and troubleshooting.
Conclusion
Reloading with Hodgdon Longshot offers significant benefits. However, this requires a comprehensive understanding of the process and, most importantly, the use of Hodgdon Longshot Reloading Data. This guide provides the foundation for safe and effective reloading. Following these guidelines will enhance your reloading skills.
Embrace the journey, and enjoy the rewarding experience of creating your own ammunition.
