2 1/2 inch 12 Gauge Documented Loads Only

[Paul Harm]

Kirk, I realize you want documented loads; but any load for 2 3/4 will work in a 2 1/2" shell. If you roll crimp instead of fold crimp nothing in the way of components would have to be changed seeing how a roll crimp uses less of the shell. And a roll crimp would give you less pressure. As a side note; I've called Claybuster wads and explained I was loading low pressure shells [ 7500psi or less ] and ask if I could substitute one of their wads that had a shorter cushion height for the short shell. A CB1118 is for 1 1/8oz in a 2 3/4" Rem hull. I shorten the hull to 2 1/2 and use 7/8oz of shot using a 7/8oz shot data for a 7/8oz CB wad. He said if it were him, he'd have no worries - the pressure wouldn't hardly change. You also can go to fiber wads to get the shorter combination to fit and pressures will go down from the plastic wad. And if you're really worried about not having tested shells, send some to Precision Reloading or Tom Amhurst and have them checked. There are a number of ways to reload and not worry about having to high of pressures. JMHO

[Kirk Mckinney]

Thanks Paul for the input. I really didn't start this thread for me as I have the 2 loads listed at the top of the thread. But I started this thread for those who in the future will be looking for these vintage loads. I spoke with IMR and Alliant Powders and both told me not to change anything on their loads ( By the way it looks like Alliant put up a new listing of their loads) or it would be done at my own risk. I understand everyone on here has a greater knowledge of reloading than me. But now that I have 2 set loads I can branch out from there like probably most with years of experience did in the beginning. Anyway I have a lot of goods things in the mail from Precision Reloading and as soon as I get back from Cabo I can begin " Getting off into it ". I plan on trying the loads at the beginning of this thread and making one with fiber wad and sending to the guys at Precision for testing. Also a 3/4 oz load. But right now I am headed to the Sea Of Cortez for some fishing and R&R.
gentlemen I will see you in the field.