[John Farrell, Charter Member #33]

Mike - here's a history lesson. It does not come from any recognized authority, powder company, shell manufacturer or Cliff Claven. It is simply a solution derived from common sense.

I find that recipe differences between 2 1/2" shotshell loads and 2 3/4" shotshell loads is nil. The only difference between the two shells is there is less plastic (or paper) above the shot in the 2 1/2" shell versus big brother.

The sole reason for the 2 3/4" shell is the shotshell industry moved to a fold crimp from a roll crimp. The roll crimp was more expensive, (crimping machine replacement wise) and required a printed overshot card to complete the assembly. The cost of replacing the crimp tools was ameliorated with the fold crimp. The amount of hull above the shot for a fold crimp is greater than that required in the roll crimped shells. Solution for 2 3/4" shotshells - add more hull.

I regularly reload shells and roll crimp them with the same recipe I use for fold crimp shells. For 2 1/2" reloads, think about roll crimping your finished hulls. I find that lo pressure 2 3/4" recipes work just fine in my shorter reloads.