[Andy Griffith]

Once the hard card is in, I will take the half completed shell to the shotshell press and make certain the wad column is seated well, and I apply about 80lbs of pressure. It is not necessary, but I do it.





Now, here’s the secret to having a tighter patterning load with these blackpowder shells than most high priced factory premium loads- something I call a “shot collar.” It’s just a piece of curled, stiff, slick backed paper card stock put into the top of the shell before the shot goes in. Not only does it keep the pattern tight, leading is non-existent making cleaning much easier. There is no need to do anything else. I like milk cartons, but cereal boxes or Little Debbie boxes work well too!