16ga.com ~ View topic - Not 16, but 2-1/2” 20 Ga Loading Question

Joined: 11 Dec 2015 Posts: 83 Location: Upstate, SC

I need to start loading 2-1/2” 20 ga shells. I have plenty of components and tools but am lacking in wads. I am trying to decide on a wad to use along with a fold crimp. I would like to avoid roll crimping if possible.

Does anyone have experience using the BP/Gualandi 20ga sporting wads in short 20 ga shells? These are offered in 3 lengths. Just trying to settle on one to start with. I am thinking the short version would be best.

Thoughts?

Joined: 16 Jul 2015 Posts: 2126 Location: Hudson,Wy

I guess it all depends on what shot charge weight you intend to load. My experiences with 2 1/2" 16 ga. have taught me that any given wad can be expected to be a decent match for loads using 1/8 oz. less shot than they would be used for in a 2 3/4" shell. I would expect similar in a 2 1/2" 20 ga. It's all about stack height vs. crimp. Look for high capacity wads, like the Rem. RP 20.

Member Joined: 24 Dec 2005 Posts: 134 Location: Idaho

Two barre;s Pm me I may have some wads for you. Larry

Joined: 28 Jan 2007 Posts: 115 Location: Grampian, PA

I had decent luck w/ the SG20S.

Joined: 07 Sep 2011 Posts: 567 Location: wheeling, wv

I have used the claybuster 1078 wad with 3/4 oz in 2 1/2" Cheddite hulls with Unique, for a low pressure load in damascus guns

Joined: 11 Dec 2015 Posts: 83 Location: Upstate, SC

I appreciate the follow up. Low pressure is not a must. These will be used in a very mechanically sound Model 12 of 1913 vintage. My goal is a 7/8 oz load between 1150 and 1200 FPS. If I can achieve that at 10K PSI or below, that should be just fine.

Joined: 07 Jun 2020 Posts: 228

I found that most 2 3/4 7/8 loads designed for fold crimps fit in 2 1/2 using roll crimps

Member Joined: 27 Jun 2005 Posts: 1545 Location: Michigan

I used BP TC20, & Rem. RXP20 wads in my 7/8 oz. 2-1/2" loads.