Low Pressure 16 Gauge

[Mike of the Mountain]

Originally Posted by Clark McCombe

I really like my 16 for shooting targets but have been frustrated the most in reloading them.
What works for me is a 2 1/2 RST hull, 7/8 shot, clay buster wad, chedite primer and green dot powder. This was a non tested load that just “feels right.” It was shared by a member here. Loading 1 oz in a 2 3/4 hull felt too heavy and why 7/8 didn’t work right in the 2 3/4 hull - I don’t know.

If 7/8 didn’t work because the crimp went in too far and/or left a hole in the center, you can add a 1/8” nitro card under your wad. That should move your wad column high enough for a good crimp. If you try that just load maybe 6-8 of them to be sure they all crimp properly, then break a few clays with them. You’ll know whether you like them or not.

[Mike of the Mountain]

One other thing that may affect your crimp. If you are using RST hulls, their crimps seem to have “more plastic in them” than other brands. Not saying RST are bad, it’s just an observation having reloaded A LOT OF THEM. You may have to adjust your wad column(such as adding a 1/8” NC) and/or start and finish crimps.