Imagine this: You’re out hunting, and you run out of shells. But instead of packing up, you have a secret weapon – a machine that can make more shells, fast! That’s the magic of a progressive shotgun shell reloader. For many shotgun shooters, reloading their own shells is a way to save money and have exactly the ammo they want. But with so many different reloaders out there, picking the right one can feel like a real puzzle.
You want a reloader that’s easy to use, makes good quality shells, and doesn’t break the bank. But how do you know which one is best for *you*? It can be confusing to figure out what features really matter. This blog post is here to clear up all that confusion. We’ll break down what makes a progressive reloader great and how to find the perfect match for your needs.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand the important things to look for. You’ll feel much more confident about choosing a progressive shotgun shell reloader that will help you shoot more and spend less. Let’s dive in and discover the best way to get your hands on reliable, custom-made shotgun shells!
Our Top 5 Progressive Shotgun Shell Reloader Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Progressive Shotgun Shell Reloader Detailed Reviews
1. DADDY AMMO Shotshell Reloader – 12 Gauge Reloader Shotgun Reloading Supplies
Rating: 9.4/10
The DADDY AMMO Shotshell Reloader – 12 Gauge Reloader Shotgun Reloading Supplies brings back a tried-and-true method for reloading your 12-gauge shotgun shells. This tabletop tool uses a classic roll crimping method, which is perfect for both plastic and paper shells. It’s designed for simple operation, meaning you can get started reloading quickly. You can easily fix it to a table or any flat surface. This setup helps prevent any spills of your reloading materials. Plus, you won’t need any oils or lubricants to use it, making the process cleaner. This reloader is built to last, offering a durable solution for your reloading needs.
What We Like:
- It uses a classic, time-tested roll crimping method that works well for plastic and paper shells.
- The design is simple and easy to use, with a lever that saves you time and effort.
- It’s very affordable, costing about half the average price of similar hunting accessories.
- The tool is made entirely of steel, making it very durable and built to last for many years.
- It can reload over 100,000 shotgun shells, showing its impressive performance.
- It comes with a clear user manual to guide you through the reloading process.
- The tabletop design is stable and prevents spills of shell contents.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description doesn’t mention any specific limitations on the types of hulls it can handle beyond plastic and paper.
This DADDY AMMO shotshell reloader is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a simple, durable, and affordable way to reload their 12-gauge shotgun shells. It offers great value and is designed for long-term use.
2. DADDY AMMO 12 Gauge Reloader – Star Shape Shotgun Reloading Press – Shotgun Reloading Supplies
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to reload your 12 gauge shotgun shells with the DADDY AMMO Star Shape Shotgun Reloading Press. This tool is designed for speed and ease, helping you prepare your ammo for hunting or target practice. It works with metal, plastic, and paper shells, making it a versatile addition to your gear.
What We Like:
- The star-shaped press gives great results, leading to better accuracy with your shots.
- It’s a versatile kit that can prime, deprime, insert wads, and crimp shells into a star shape.
- This reloader is much more affordable than other options on the market.
- It offers higher accuracy than roll crimped shells because there’s no gasket to interfere with the shot.
- Made entirely of steel, this is a super durable tool that will last for many years.
- It comes with a clear user manual, perfect for beginners and experienced reloaders.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for 12 gauge, some users might wish for options for other gauges.
- The star-shaped crimp might require a bit of practice to get perfect every time.
The DADDY AMMO 12 Gauge Reloader is a smart investment for any shotgun enthusiast looking for quality and affordability. You’ll be reloading your own shells with confidence in no time.
3. AltitudeCraft #2 Reloading Shell Plate
Rating: 8.9/10
The AltitudeCraft #2 Reloading Shell Plate is a fantastic upgrade for any reloader using a Hornady Lock-N-Load Progressive Press. It makes changing calibers a breeze and ensures your reloading process is smooth and accurate. This shell plate is built to last and handles a variety of popular rifle cartridges, making it a versatile tool for your reloading bench.
What We Like:
- Precision-engineered for smooth and reliable caliber changes.
- Works with many rifle cartridges like 219 Zipper, 22 Savage HP, and 30-30 WIN.
- Made from strong alloy steel with a rust-resistant nickel finish.
- Helps reloaders work faster and more consistently, especially for large jobs.
- Simple to install and easy to clean for ongoing smooth operation.
What Could Be Improved:
- The initial cost might be a consideration for some hobbyists.
- Availability might be limited at certain times.
For reloaders who need efficiency and accuracy, this AltitudeCraft shell plate is a smart investment. It streamlines your work and delivers dependable results, cartridge after cartridge.
4. MEC Outdoors Progessive Bottle Support Bundle for MEC Shotshell Reloaders
Rating: 9.4/10
The MEC Outdoors Progressive Bottle Support Bundle is a smart way to upgrade your shotshell reloading setup. This bundle gives you everything you need to keep your powder and shot bottles steady and accessible. It’s designed to work with MEC reloading presses, making your reloading process smoother and more reliable.
What We Like:
- It provides a sturdy base for your bottles, preventing spills.
- The bundle includes different sized powder bottles for various reloading needs.
- The Magnum Shot Bottle is great for those who reload a lot of shells.
- The Small Powder Bottle helps you measure powder accurately.
- It makes your MEC reloader more efficient and dependable.
- The quality of the materials used is high.
What Could Be Improved:
- More color options could be available.
- Instructions for setup could be clearer for beginners.
This bundle is a fantastic investment for any serious reloader. It enhances your reloading capabilities and ensures consistent results with every shell you make.
5. DADDY AMMO Star Shape 16 Gauge Reloader – Shotgun Reloading Press Shotshell Reloader
Rating: 8.6/10
The DADDY AMMO Star Shape 16 Gauge Reloader is a straightforward tool for anyone looking to reload their 16-gauge shotgun shells. It’s designed to be simple and reliable, letting you get started without needing to be an expert. This press is built tough, so it should last for a long time.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to set up on almost any flat surface.
- You don’t need electricity, so you can reload shells anywhere.
- It’s made from strong steel and aluminum, meaning it will last.
- No fancy instructions are needed; you can start reloading right away.
- The manual process gives you more control for better quality shells.
- It can reload over 100,000 shells, and the crimp starter can be replaced if needed.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s only for 16-gauge shells, so it’s not a multi-gauge option.
- The smaller size might mean it’s not as heavy-duty as some larger presses.
If you’re a 16-gauge shooter who values control and simplicity, this DADDY AMMO reloader is a solid choice. It offers a reliable way to produce your own ammunition for years to come.
Your Guide to a Progressive Shotgun Shell Reloader
Reloading shotgun shells can save you money and let you customize your ammunition. A progressive reloader makes this process much faster and easier. This guide will help you choose the right one.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you buy a progressive shotgun shell reloader, check for these important features.
- Number of Stations: More stations mean more steps happening at once. This makes reloading quicker. Most progressive reloaders have 8 to 12 stations.
- Automatic Indexing: This feature automatically moves the shell to the next station after each step. It’s a big time-saver.
- Automatic Priming: Some machines can automatically insert primers. This speeds things up and reduces errors.
- Adjustable Powder Drop: You need to precisely measure your powder. A good reloader lets you easily adjust the amount.
- Adjustable Crimp: The crimp seals the shell. You want to be able to adjust how tight it is.
- Interchangeable Toolheads: This lets you switch between different gauge shells (like 12 gauge and 20 gauge) without needing a whole new machine.
- Built-in Scale: Some reloaders have a scale to check powder drops. This adds an extra layer of safety.
Important Materials
The materials used in a reloader affect its durability and precision.
- Steel: Many parts are made of strong steel. This makes the reloader last a long time. Look for powder-coated or zinc-plated steel for extra protection against rust.
- Aluminum: Some components, like the toolhead, are often made of aluminum. It’s lighter than steel but still strong. Anodized aluminum is best because it resists wear and corrosion.
- High-Quality Plastics: Some parts, like primer feed tubes or shell holders, are made of strong plastic. They need to be tough and resist wear.
What Makes a Reloading Machine Great (or Not So Great)
Several things make a reloader perform well or poorly.
- Precision Machining: Well-made parts fit together perfectly. This leads to consistent results and fewer mistakes.
- Smooth Operation: The machine should move easily without sticking or jamming. This makes reloading a pleasant experience.
- Durability: A good reloader can handle thousands of shells. It should not break or wear out quickly.
- Ease of Adjustment: You should be able to change settings like powder charge or crimp easily and accurately.
- Reliability: The machine should work the same way every time. You don’t want surprises when reloading.
- Poorly Made Parts: Cheap plastic or weak metal can break. This stops your reloading and costs money to fix.
- Difficult Adjustments: If you can’t easily set the machine correctly, your shells might not be safe.
- Frequent Jams: A machine that jams a lot is frustrating and slows you down.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a progressive reloader is different from manual methods.
- Faster Reloading: This is the biggest benefit. You can load many shells in a short amount of time. This is great for hunters or sport shooters who use a lot of ammunition.
- Consistency: When set up right, progressive reloaders make very similar shells every time. This means your shots will fly more predictably.
- Customization: You can choose your own powder, shot, and wads. This lets you create loads for specific needs, like target shooting or hunting small game.
- Learning Curve: While faster, there is a learning curve. You need to understand how to set it up and make sure everything is working correctly.
- Safety First: Always follow reloading safety rules. Incorrectly loaded shells can be dangerous.
- Use Cases:
- Hunters: Reloading can save money on shells used for practice and hunting trips.
- Sport Shooters: Trap, skeet, and sporting clays shooters go through a lot of ammo. Reloading is very cost-effective for them.
- Reloading Enthusiasts: People who enjoy the process of making their own ammunition find satisfaction in using a progressive reloader.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a progressive shotgun shell reloader?
A: It’s a machine that performs multiple steps of reloading at once. Each pull of the handle completes a shell.
Q: Is reloading shotgun shells with a progressive reloader safe?
A: Yes, if you follow instructions carefully and use accurate components. Always double-check your loads.
Q: How much money can I save by reloading?
A: You can save a significant amount, often 50% or more, depending on the cost of new shells and reloading components.
Q: How long does it take to reload a box of shells?
A: Once you are experienced, you can reload a box of 25 shells in about 15-30 minutes.
Q: Do I need special tools to use a progressive reloader?
A: You’ll need the reloader itself, plus component scales, calipers, and safety glasses. You might also need a primer pocket reamer.
Q: Can I reload different gauges of shells with one reloader?
A: Some machines allow you to switch toolheads to reload different gauges. You’ll need to buy the correct parts for each gauge.
Q: What are the main parts of a progressive shotgun shell reloader?
A: Key parts include the base, toolhead, shell carrier, primer feed, powder die, and crimp die.
Q: What is the most important safety rule when reloading?
A: Never guess powder amounts. Always measure precisely and follow recommended load data.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my progressive reloader?
A: Keep it clean and dry. Lightly oil moving parts regularly to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Q: Where can I find load data for shotgun shells?
A: Reputable sources include reloading manuals from powder manufacturers (like Hodgdon or Alliant) and reloading component manufacturers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.