[BCB]

I just reloaded some 1.5 ounce loads in some AA hulls using WIN-540 powder. It is a listed load shown in the Winchester handbook from years ago. I also used buffer.
I did get a very good crimp on the 8-crimp case, but I think some of the buffer may work its way out with movement in a shotgun or in one's pocket.
So, I put a couple of drops of wax on the end and it sealed it nicely. Will this practice cause a dangerous increase in pressure? I have seen this done and have read about it but I am uncertain. Thanks...BCB

 

[.45 COLT]

This may be a dumb question, but - the load you used was a buffered load, right? Adding buffer material to a non-buffer recipe can raise pressure way beyond safe. I wouldn't worry about a drop of wax sealer raising pressure.

 

[BCB]

Just curious, how does buffer, which is 0.75% of the total weight of the shot column, cause dangerously high pressures? Thanks…BCB

 

[rickyp]

any time you change something when loading shotshells can raise prssures. something as small as changign from a remington primer to a winchester could do this.

 

[.45 COLT]

Winchester has a warning and explanation in their 15th edition manual. Has to do with compressability of the shot column.

I've seen some pressure data on loads that were identical except for addition of buffer to some. Eye opening stuff. The buffer really elevates pressure.

 

[the rifleman]

I too have been warned of using buffer in a load other than one calling for buffer. It does seem odd that it would make any difference at all, but apparently it does. :?

As far as wax goes, it has been used for years to seal poor crimps on reloads, usually to prevent shot spill. No problems ever encountered that I have heard of. I've done it myself...

Just keep the burning candle away from your powder! :grin: