Introduction
Reloading shotshells is a rewarding hobby for those who enjoy precision, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to tailor ammunition to their specific needs. At the heart of achieving consistent and safe reloads lies understanding the mechanics of your equipment, particularly the crucial role of the MEC bushing chart. This article dives deep into the world of the MEC bushing chart PDF, providing you with the knowledge and resources needed to safely and effectively reload shotshells with confidence.
What is a MEC Bushing Chart?
Your reloading press, like the ones produced by MEC, is a machine designed to bring together various components – the hull, primer, powder, wad, and shot – into a functional shotshell. But the crucial component in this precise dance is the bushing. The bushing is essentially a metering device. It determines the precise volume of powder and shot that will be dispensed into your shell. Understanding the function and application of the MEC bushing chart is therefore paramount to the entire process.
The Importance of Precision
The true craft of reloading lies in precision. When you’re reloading, you’re aiming to recreate factory-level performance, or perhaps even surpass it. This is where the MEC bushing chart PDF comes in, acting as your indispensable guide. It is the key to achieving safe and accurate reloads. It assists in determining the correct bushing size for a specific powder and shot weight, allowing you to adjust the volume dispensed with each pull of the handle.
Bushing Size and Volumes
The relationship between bushing size, powder volume, and shot volume is direct. A larger bushing will dispense more powder or shot. It seems simple, but the exact volume of powder that a bushing delivers can be affected by a variety of variables, including the type of powder, the condition of the bushing, and even the temperature. Therefore, relying on a reliable MEC bushing chart PDF is crucial for safety and repeatability.
Why Accuracy is Key
Why is using the right bushing so crucial? First and foremost, safety. Incorrect powder charges can lead to dangerous situations. Too much powder can result in an explosion, while too little can cause squib loads that may lodge a shot in the barrel. Consistent performance is the second benefit. Using the correct bushing ensures consistent shot velocities and patterns from your reloads. This consistency is vital for hitting the target every time, whether it’s paper, clay, or game. Finally, accuracy. By knowing the exact shot and powder charge, reloaders can fine-tune their shells for optimum performance.
Types of MEC Reloading Machines
MEC reloading machines, like the machines used for reloading in other brands, are renowned for their simplicity, durability, and ease of use. These machines are made by MEC, a very popular brand among reloaders. These presses use bushings that meter the powder and shot into each shell, however, there are a few MEC models. These include the MEC 600 Jr., the 9000 series (including the 9000GN and other variations), and the Grabber. Each model may have slightly different considerations when it comes to bushings, though the core principles of the MEC bushing chart PDF remain the same. Understanding the specifications of your machine and the availability of bushings specifically for your MEC model are important. The most common models work identically, so you can generally use the same MEC bushing chart PDF.
Finding MEC Bushing Charts PDF
Finding the right MEC bushing chart PDF is easier than you might think. The most reliable source is the official MEC website. Here, you can often download the latest versions of their charts directly, ensuring you’re using the most accurate data. Also, many reputable reloading forums and websites are home to valuable reloading information, including downloadable MEC bushing chart PDFs. Always exercise caution and verify the source of the chart. Finally, some third-party resources provide MEC bushing charts.
Searching Strategies
When searching, utilize specific keywords like “MEC bushing chart PDF,” “MEC reloading chart,” and include your specific MEC press model (e.g., “MEC 600 Jr. bushing chart PDF”) in your search.
Important Warnings
Before proceeding, a word of caution: ensure the chart you’re using is from a reputable source and is relevant to the powder you are using, your specific shotshell, and your MEC reloading machine. Outdated charts or those that are not verified can lead to inaccurate loads, potentially compromising safety. Always cross-reference the data with a reliable reloading manual as an added safety precaution.
Understanding the MEC Bushing Chart
Understanding the layout of a MEC bushing chart is essential. The chart typically presents information in an easy-to-read table. It includes columns for different powder types, shot weights, and bushing numbers. The number itself does not directly correlate to volume (the bushing sizes are determined by the MEC design), so the user has to refer to the chart for the specific powder they’re using and the specific shot weight to be used.
Decoding the Chart
To interpret the chart: find the powder type you’re using. Powder manufacturers’ data will tell you which powders that they’ve tested. Next, find the desired shot weight (for example, 1 ounce, or 1 1/8 ounces). Then, simply trace across the row to find the corresponding bushing number. This number represents the bushing you should use to dispense the correct amount of powder.
Verification is Key
Once you have the bushing number, insert that bushing into your MEC reloading press. After performing the steps, you’ll want to test the powder and shot drops with a scale and a powder-and-shot-measuring device. This confirms the bushing’s performance with your chosen powder.
Steps to Using a MEC Bushing Chart
Selecting Components
Before reloading any shells, you need to make decisions about the components. Start by choosing your components. That includes the powder you’ve selected, the shot for your projectiles, the hull (the empty shell casing), the primer (the component that starts the explosion), and the wad (the plastic cup that holds the shot). You will then refer to the chart to determine which bushing is appropriate for the powder type and shot weight.
Finding the Right Bushing
When using a MEC bushing chart, start by finding the powder type in the chart and go down that column. Locate the shot weight you intend to load. Now, identify the corresponding bushing number. Insert this bushing into the appropriate location in your reloading press, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Reloading Process
Following the information given in your MEC bushing chart PDF, you will begin to reload your shells. After the bushing is in place, operate the press to dispense the powder and the shot into the hull. Finally, verify the powder and shot charge weights using a calibrated reloading scale to confirm you’re obtaining the desired volumes.
Important Considerations
Several factors can affect the performance of a bushing. Powder lot variations are a common cause of changes in powder charge weights. Different lots of the same powder may have different densities. The same goes for different production runs. Temperature and humidity changes can also influence the powder’s behavior. The conditions where you reload affect powder behavior, and that in turn affects bushing performance. Finally, wear and tear on the bushing itself can slightly alter its dispensing characteristics over time, so replace bushings that are obviously damaged or heavily worn.
Safety First
Reloading is a process that requires attention to safety. It is important to always start with the minimum recommended powder charge and incrementally increase it while monitoring your results. Never exceed the maximum recommended load specified in the MEC bushing chart, or any reloading manual, as this can lead to dangerous overpressure situations. Before reloading, always double-check all components and settings.
Tips and Troubleshooting
Powder Problems
Powder bridging or clumping can sometimes happen, especially with certain types of powder. If this happens, you will notice inconsistent powder charges and, potentially, a failure of the powder to dispense properly. Addressing this issue is important. Use a powder baffle to help promote consistent powder flow. Ensure the powder hopper is free of moisture, and periodically check the powder flow to avoid disruptions.
Alternative Data
When your components aren’t in the chart, or you’re unable to find the exact data, there are several steps you can take. First, consult a reliable reloading manual. These manuals provide comprehensive load data from powder and shot manufacturers. They will provide information on suitable loads. Also, you can look for data from the powder manufacturer. They often have their own published reloading data that will align with your needs. Use the MEC bushing chart PDF as a starting point and, when necessary, seek out additional reliable resources to tailor your reloading efforts to your specific requirements.
Where to Buy MEC Bushings
For purchasing your MEC bushings, there are many options. Online retailers like Brownells and MidwayUSA offer a wide selection of MEC bushings. Local gun stores often carry a range of common bushing sizes. Look for stores near you and call before going to verify they have the bushing sizes you need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MEC bushing chart PDF is your indispensable tool for achieving safe, consistent, and accurate shotshell reloads. It is the bridge between your components and the perfect shot. By understanding how to use the chart correctly and by prioritizing safety, reloaders can enjoy the rewards of reloading. Reloading can save money, offer the opportunity to customize ammunition, and provide a satisfying way to enjoy your shooting sports hobby.
Always remember to prioritize safety. Reloading manuals and the MEC bushing chart PDF are vital resources in this process. Reload carefully, double-check your loads, and enjoy the rewarding experience of reloading.
