Читать книгу Reloading for Shotgunners онлайн

51 страница из 62

All primers are not the same. Not even all primers designated for shotshells are the same and they can not be interchanged without double checking load formulas. Many primers look alike and if you load multiple gauges, or multiple types of guns, keep your primers strictly separate.

The wad has two primary functions. It seals the powder from the shot and prevents the burning gas from leaking through the balls of shot or around the sides and thereby diminishing the unitary force of the shove down the barrel. Obviously, it must fit smoothly and with great precision against the sides of the hull, not so tight that it causes undue pressures from the burning powder, but not so loose that it does not completely seal off the gas.

Because the cardboard and felt wad circlets of a hundred years ago have evolved into a much more impressive and functional shotcup, the wad itself has accrued additional functions. By cupping the shot, it prevents significant contact between the accelerating pellets and the smooth steel of the barrel. Although this might leave residue inside the barrel for you to clean out later, lead would not damage the barrel.