Ever looked at a pile of spent shotgun shells and wondered what magic happens to turn them back into something useful? For many of us who love to shoot, that magic is called reloading. But when it comes to the 20 gauge shotgun, choosing the right hulls can feel like navigating a maze. You want to get started, you’ve heard all the benefits of saving money and customizing your loads, but then you see all the different types of hulls out there – plastic, paper, different brands, different lengths – and it’s enough to make your head spin.
This is where things can get frustrating. You might end up with hulls that don’t fit your press well, or ones that don’t perform the way you expect. It’s a common problem for new and experienced reloaders alike. But what if there was a simpler way to understand which 20 gauge hulls are best for your needs? What if you could confidently pick the right ones every time?
By reading on, you’ll learn what makes certain hulls better than others. We’ll break down the key features to look for, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make smarter choices. Get ready to simplify your reloading bench and get back to enjoying your time on the range with perfectly loaded 20 gauge shells.
Our Top 5 20 Gauge Hulls For Reloading Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 20 Gauge Hulls For Reloading Detailed Reviews
1. Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press 20 GA Load All II
Rating: 9.0/10
The Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press 20 GA Load All II is a solid choice for anyone looking to reload their own 20-gauge shotgun shells. It’s designed with simplicity and convenience in mind, making the reloading process less of a chore and more enjoyable. This press is built to help you produce consistent, reliable shells right at home.
What We Like:
- Convenient Handle: The handle makes it super easy to move the press around. You can take it with you to different spots or store it away without a struggle.
- Easy to Carry: It’s lightweight, so carrying it is no problem at all. This is great if you don’t have a dedicated reloading bench or need to set it up and put it away often.
- Easy to Operate: The design is straightforward. Even if you’re new to reloading, you’ll find it simple to understand and use. It’s not complicated, which saves you time and frustration.
- Consistent Results: This press helps you make shells that perform well every time. You can count on it for reliable ammunition.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Gauge Options: This particular model is specifically for 20-gauge shells. If you reload other sizes, you’d need a different press.
- Learning Curve for Advanced Users: While easy to operate for beginners, experienced reloaders might want more advanced features for fine-tuning.
Overall, the Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press 20 GA Load All II excels at making reloading accessible and manageable. It’s a great starting point for 20-gauge enthusiasts.
2. 20 Gauge 25 Shotshell Reloading Block Tray
Rating: 9.4/10
The 20 Gauge 25 Shotshell Reloading Block Tray is a handy tool for anyone who reloads shotgun shells. It holds 25 shells securely, making it easy to move your reloading setup around. This tray is built tough and designed for comfort.
What We Like:
- It’s simple and feels good in your hand.
- Your shells stay put, even when you move the tray.
- It’s proudly made in the USA.
- The strong polymer material means it will last a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only holds 25 shells, so you might need more for larger reloading jobs.
- While durable, the polymer could potentially scratch over time with heavy use.
This reloading block tray is a solid, American-made accessory that makes organizing your 20-gauge shotshells a breeze. It’s a practical addition for any reloader.
3. C1000 Lock-N-Load Precision Overall Lenath Gauge Straight Precision OAL Gauge for Reloading Compatible with Bolt-Action and Single-Shot Firearms Metal Aluminum
Rating: 9.4/10
The C1000 Lock-N-Load Precision Overall Length Gauge is a key tool for anyone serious about reloading ammunition. It helps you measure your rounds accurately. This means your bullets will sit at just the right depth. This precision is important for making your shots more consistent and reliable. It’s made for shooters who want the best performance from their reloads.
What We Like:
- It helps you measure the exact length of your loaded ammunition. This gives you better control over how deep the bullet is seated.
- The gauge is made of tough red aluminum. It can handle a lot of use and still be accurate.
- It’s very simple to use. You just put the bullet in, close the gauge, and read the measurement.
- This gauge works with many types of firearms, including lever-action, bolt-action, and single-shot guns.
- Using this gauge makes reloading safer. It also helps prevent your gun from jamming.
- It makes your reloaded ammo more consistent. This is great for competitions, hunting, or just target practice.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it works for many firearms, it requires a Modified Case for accurate measurements, which is an additional item to acquire.
This OAL gauge is a valuable addition for any reloader looking to improve their accuracy and consistency. It’s a smart investment for better shooting results.
4. Ballistic Products The Spin Doctor Shotshell Hull Conditioning Tool 20
Rating: 8.9/10
Reloading your own shotshells can be a rewarding hobby, but dealing with old, misshapen hulls can be a hassle. The Ballistic Products Spin Doctor Shotshell Hull Conditioning Tool is here to help. This clever tool works with common drills and drill presses to make those old hulls look almost new again. It’s designed to condition hulls for 20, 16, 12, and 10 gauge shells, giving you more reusable hulls for your reloading projects.
What We Like:
- It fits into any standard 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch drill or drill press, making it very versatile.
- The tool spins and creates heat.
- Applying pressure while it spins conditions the hull.
- It effectively removes signs of old crimps.
- This means you can reuse more of your shotshell hulls.
- It helps save money on reloading supplies.
What Could Be Improved:
- The tool only works on certain types of hulls.
- It requires a drill or drill press to operate.
- Some users might find the initial setup takes a little practice.
The Ballistic Products Spin Doctor is a smart addition to any reloader’s toolkit. It makes preparing shotshell hulls much easier, allowing you to get back to reloading faster.
5. EZ-Pack Shot shell Packer for Reloading 12 Gauge – Quick Boxer 12g
Rating: 9.2/10
Reloading shotgun shells can be a rewarding hobby, but it often takes time and effort. The EZ-Pack Shot shell Packer for Reloading 12 Gauge – Quick Boxer 12g is designed to make this process much faster and simpler. This tool helps you pack your shot shells efficiently, saving you valuable time at the reloading bench. Its clever design is built for ease of use, so you can get more done with less hassle.
What We Like:
- It features a strong, one-piece 3D printed design that feels very sturdy.
- The packer is designed to be quick and easy to use, speeding up your reloading.
- It’s a simple tool that does its job well.
- The 3D printed construction means it’s likely lightweight.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a 3D printed item, the long-term durability might depend on the specific material used.
- There’s no mention of adjustable settings for different shell types or powder loads.
- Availability might be limited since it’s a specialized 3D printed item.
For reloaders looking to streamline their 12-gauge shot shell preparation, this EZ-Pack Packer offers a straightforward and efficient solution. Its robust design promises to be a helpful addition to any reloading setup.
Choosing the Right 20 Gauge Hulls for Your Reloading Adventures
Reloading your own ammunition can be a rewarding hobby. It saves money and lets you tailor your loads. When you’re getting started with 20 gauge shotgun shells, picking the right hulls is super important. This guide will help you make smart choices.
What to Look For: Key Features of 20 Gauge Hulls
When you shop for 20 gauge hulls, keep these features in mind.
- **Hull Length:** Hulls come in different lengths. Common lengths are 2 ¾ inches and 3 inches. Make sure the hull length matches the shotshell you want to reload.
- **Material:** Most hulls are made of plastic. Some older or specialized hulls might be made of paper or a combination. Plastic hulls are durable and weather-resistant.
- **Primer Type:** Hulls come with primers already installed or without them. You can buy hulls with standard primers or figure out which primers work best for your reloading press.
- **Shot Capacity:** This isn’t a feature you see on the hull itself, but it’s related to the hull length and how much shot it can hold. Longer hulls generally hold more shot.
- **Base Wad:** The base wad is at the bottom of the hull. It helps support the primer and keeps the hull strong. Some hulls have thicker or different types of base wads.
Important Materials in Hulls
The main material for modern 20 gauge hulls is plastic. This plastic is usually a type of polymer that is strong and can handle the pressure of firing. The metal base at the bottom of the hull is typically brass. This brass helps give the hull strength and makes it easier for your shotgun’s ejector to grab it. The primer is a small metal cup with a chemical compound inside. When struck by the firing pin, it ignites the gunpowder.
What Makes a Hull Good or Bad?
Several things affect the quality of a 20 gauge hull.
- **Durability:** A good hull can be reloaded many times without cracking or splitting. High-quality plastic and a strong base wad help make hulls more durable.
- **Consistency:** Hulls should be made the same way every time. This means they should all be the same length and have the same primer pocket. Consistent hulls make reloading easier and your shots more predictable.
- **Primer Fit:** The primer needs to fit snugly in its pocket. If it’s too loose, it might fall out. If it’s too tight, it can be hard to seat properly.
- **Cracks and Splits:** Hulls that are damaged before you even use them are no good. Always inspect your hulls for any signs of cracks or splits.
- **Brand Reputation:** Some brands are known for making excellent reloading components. Reading reviews and asking experienced reloaders can help you find reliable brands.
User Experience and How You’ll Use Them
Reloading 20 gauge hulls is for many different shooting activities.
- **Target Shooting:** If you shoot a lot of clay targets, reloading can save you a lot of money. You can load hulls with different types and amounts of shot for different target games.
- **Hunting:** For hunters, reloading lets you create specialized loads for specific game. You can choose shot size and velocity to match your target.
- **Plinking:** Casual shooting, or “plinking,” is also more affordable with reloaded shells.
- **Experimentation:** Reloading lets you experiment with different powder charges, shot sizes, and wads. This is great for learning more about ballistics and shotgun performance.
Reloading hulls is a process that requires care and attention to detail. Using good quality hulls will make the process smoother and lead to better shooting results.
Frequently Asked Questions About 20 Gauge Hulls for Reloading
Here are some common questions people have about 20 gauge hulls.
Q: Can I reload any 20 gauge hull?
A: Mostly, yes. But it’s best to use hulls made for reloading. Some hulls are designed for single use. Always check if a hull is suitable for reloading.
Q: How many times can I reload a 20 gauge hull?
A: This varies. Good quality plastic hulls can often be reloaded 5 to 10 times or even more. You need to check them for cracks after each use.
Q: What is the difference between 2 ¾ inch and 3 inch hulls?
A: The main difference is their length. 3 inch hulls are longer and can hold more powder and shot, making them suitable for heavier loads or larger game.
Q: Should I buy hulls with primers already installed?
A: It depends on your reloading setup and preference. If you have a press that seats primers, buying hulls without primers can be cheaper. If you want to speed up the process, pre-primed hulls are convenient.
Q: What kind of plastic are most hulls made from?
A: Most modern hulls are made from a durable type of plastic called polyethylene or a similar polymer. This plastic is chosen for its strength and resistance to moisture.
Q: Does the brass on the bottom of the hull matter?
A: Yes. The brass base provides strength to the hull and helps the shotgun’s extractor remove the spent shell. The height of the brass can vary and might affect how the shell fits in some shotguns.
Q: Where can I buy 20 gauge hulls for reloading?
A: You can buy them at most sporting goods stores, gun shops, and online retailers that sell reloading supplies. You can also find them at gun shows.
Q: Can I mix and match different brands of hulls?
A: It’s generally best to stick to one type of hull for a specific load recipe. Different hull designs can affect pressure and performance. If you do mix, be very careful and follow reloading data closely.
Q: What does “once-fired” mean for hulls?
A: “Once-fired” means the hull has been shot exactly one time. These are often sold by people who have shot their ammunition and want to get rid of the empty hulls. They are a good way to get started with reloading without buying new hulls.
Q: Are there any safety tips I should know when reloading hulls?
A: Always follow reloading manuals and use the correct amount of powder and shot. Wear safety glasses when reloading and shooting. Store your components and finished ammunition in a safe, dry place.
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.