Shotshell Identification

[New Reloader]

Thanks to Lennyjoe I've started reloading 12 gauge shells. Taking things nice and slow! I've discovered many different markings on the side of the empty hulls that lead to a couple questions.

1. If a hull is marked "1-1/8-8" does this necessarily have to be reloaded with 1-1/8 oz of #8 shot or can it be loaded with a different shot load (provided I keep immcaulate records of what I'm loading in them)?

2. What does the "3" mean in 3 - 1-1/8 - 7-1/2?

Thanks again to Lennyjoe who's helped me embark on the next chapter of reloading. Thank also to those that have provided insightful answers to past questions.

[Balog]

I think the "3" is 3 inch length? Dunno, maybe measure it and see.

[New Reloader]

Nope - it's definitely a 2-3/4" hull.

[bedlamite]

1) What is printed on the hull is what it was loaded with at the factory. It doesn't matter if you load it with #6, #8, or #12 the next time around.

2) Dram equivalent. Is a measure of how powerful the shell is, and a throwback to when black powder was used.

[New Reloader]

thank you bedlamite. I just figured that out after I posted. I appreciate the intelligent answers though. Thanks.

[Scout26]

1) As long as you follow the recipe precisely.


2)  Yep, the three is the dram equivalent of Blackpower.  It's an archaic measurement of relative velocity.  (3 dram is roughly 1200 fps).

[K Frame]

3 - 1-1/8 - 7-1/2


3 is a powder loading to achieve velocity equivalent to 3 drams of black powder.

1 1/8 is ounces of shot.

7 1/2 is the shot size.