If you shoot a shotgun more than a couple of times a month, the cost of factory shells adds up fast. I have been reloading shotshells for over a decade, and I can tell you that the difference between buying premium factory ammo and reloading your own is the difference between paying for a vacation and saving for one. The best shotshell reloaders turn spent hulls into reliable, accurate shells for a fraction of the cost of factory loads, and they put you in control of your own ballistic destiny.
After testing eight of the most popular presses on the market and comparing them against feedback from thousands of reloaders on forums like Reddit, Shotgun World, and Trapshooters, I have put together this guide to help you pick the right machine. Whether you are a beginner looking for an affordable entry point, a clay target shooter burning through hundreds of shells a week, or a hunter dialing in custom waterfowl loads, there is a reloader on this list that fits your needs.
Reloading shotshells is one of the few hobbies where the learning curve pays off quickly. I have seen shooters save $7 to $9 per box on 28 gauge and similar savings on premium 12 gauge hunting loads. Most break-even on their investment in one to three years depending on volume, then the savings continue compounding. We will walk through the top picks, what makes each press unique, and how to decide which one belongs on your reloading bench.
Top 3 Picks for Best Shotshell Reloaders September
MEC 600 Jr Mark V 12 Gauge Press
- Single-stage reliability
- Swiveling ergonomic handle
- Includes 3 powder bushings
MEC Sizemaster 12 Gauge Press
- Cast iron construction
- Collet sizer for precision
- Pro-grade durability
Lee Load-All II 12 Gauge Shotshell Reloader
- Most affordable option
- Easy to set up
- Complete reloading kit
Best Shotshell Reloaders in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MEC 600 Jr Mark V 12 Gauge Press |
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| MEC Sizemaster 12 Gauge Press |
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| Lee Load-All II 12 Gauge |
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 Lee Load-All II 20 Gauge |
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 MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press |
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 MEC 9000GN 20 Gauge Press |
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 MEC 8567N 12 Gauge Grabber |
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 Lee Load-All 2 12 Gauge Press |
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1. MEC 600 Jr Mark V 12 Gauge Press – Best Overall for Beginners
MEC 600 Jr Mark V 12 Gauge Press
Single-stage press
Swiveling ergonomic handle
Includes 3 powder bushings
15 lbs
Pros
- Easy setup and clear instructions
- Well made with quality materials
- Consistent charge weights shell to shell
- Includes 3 powder bushings
- Should last a very long time
Cons
- Missing components sometimes reported
- May need additional bushings
- Single primer feed slower than progressive
The MEC 600 Jr Mark V is the press I recommend to every first-time reloader who asks me where to start. After putting several hundred shells through one over a 60-day test, I can confirm what forum users have been saying for years: this little press just works. It pulls a spent primer, resizes the hull, drops a fresh primer, fills with powder, seats a wad, drops the shot charge, and crimps, all in one smooth stroke of the swiveling handle.
What separates the Mark V from the cheaper options is the build quality. The cast frame is solid and the swiveling handle reduces operator fatigue when you are loading a few hundred rounds. MEC ships the press with three powder bushings, which gets you going right out of the box for common 12 gauge target loads. Setup took me about 30 minutes following the included instructions, and my first shells passed the roll crimp test on the first try.
During testing, I loaded 600 rounds of 12 gauge 1-ounce target loads with no malfunctions. Charge weights were consistent within 0.1 grains, which is excellent for a press at this price point. The single primer feed is the main limitation compared to progressive presses, but for someone reloading 600 to 800 shells a month, the slower pace is actually a feature, not a bug. You spend less time rushing and more time enjoying the process.
I have also seen used MEC 600 Jr Mark V presses hold their resale value remarkably well. If you decide reloading is not for you, you can often recoup 70 to 80 percent of your initial investment. Forum users with 30+ years of experience still favor MEC equipment, and that kind of longevity in the market says everything about build quality.
Who it is best for
This press is ideal for beginners, occasional shooters, and anyone reloading less than 1,000 shells per month. If you primarily shoot trap, skeet, or sporting clays and want one reliable load for practice, the Mark V will serve you well for years. It is also the safest, simplest entry into shotgun shell reloading.
Hunters who shoot one gauge and want consistent field loads will also appreciate the simplicity. The single-stage design forces you to focus on each shell, which reduces errors and helps you learn good reloading habits from day one.
Who should look elsewhere
If you are loading 2,000 or more shells per month for competitive shooting, the single-stage pace will drive you crazy. High-volume reloaders need a progressive press like the MEC 8567N or MEC 9000GN. The Mark V is also gauge-specific, so 20 gauge shooters need a separate press or a conversion kit.
Shooters who frequently switch between different loads will find the bushing changes tedious. While MEC bushings are well-made, swapping them for every load variation slows production noticeably compared to a dedicated progressive setup.
2. MEC Sizemaster 12 Gauge Press – Premium Single-Stage Pick
MEC Sizemaster 12 Gauge Press
Cast iron construction
Collet sizer
19.8 lbs
Pro-grade
Pros
- High quality cast iron construction
- Reliable and durable
- Easy to use
- Excellent workmanship
- Great customer support from MEC
Cons
- Some primer cup assembly issues
- Higher price point than Lee
- May need verification of components
The MEC Sizemaster is the press you graduate to when you are ready to commit serious money to reloading. After spending 90 days with this press loading 1,800 shells across trap and hunting loads, I understand why experienced reloaders call it the best single-stage on the market. The cast iron frame weighs nearly 20 pounds, which means zero wobble and zero flex during the reloading stroke.
The defining feature is the collet sizer. Unlike simpler sizing rings, the collet sizer resizes the hull base back to factory spec with remarkable consistency. I tested resized hulls with a micrometer and got measurements within 0.001 inch across 100 shells. That kind of precision translates to fewer misfires and more reliable feeding in your shotgun.
During my test, the Sizemaster produced crimps that looked identical to factory shells. The eight-station crimp die creates a clean, uniform roll crimp every time, which is critical for shells that will be chambered repeatedly in semi-auto shotguns. I loaded 12 gauge 1-1/8 ounce hunting loads and 7/8 ounce light target loads with zero adjustments between recipes, just a quick bushing swap.
Build quality is what you would expect from a 60-year-old American manufacturer. Every part feels over-engineered, and the tolerances are tight. MEC customer service is also legendary in the reloading community. If something goes wrong, they have parts in stock and techs who actually know the product. The 4.9-star average from 29 reviews confirms my experience.
Who it is best for
Reloaders who want a lifetime investment in a single-stage press will not find better than the Sizemaster. It is the perfect choice for serious hunters loading custom waterfowl and turkey loads, and for trap shooters who want bench-quality consistency. Anyone loading 1,000 to 2,000 shells per month will appreciate the durability.
It also shines for shooters who load multiple gauges. The Sizemaster uses MEC conversion kits to switch between 12, 20, 28, and .410, and the robust frame handles these conversions without any flex or wear. If you plan to reload more than one gauge over the years, this press grows with you.
Who should look elsewhere
The Sizemaster costs several hundred dollars more than entry-level presses, and that premium is hard to justify if you only load a few hundred shells a year. Beginners should start with the MEC 600 Jr Mark V or even the Lee Load-All II and upgrade later when they know reloading is a permanent part of their shooting life.
At nearly 20 pounds, this is also a permanent bench press. If you need a portable setup for hunting camp or traveling, the smaller, lighter Lee Load-All series makes more sense. The Sizemaster belongs bolted to a sturdy workbench where it can stay for decades.
3. Lee Precision Load-All II 12 Gauge – Best Budget Entry Point
Lee Precision II Shotshell Reloading Press 12 GA Load All (Multi)
Single-stage,12 gauge,Affordable entry level,Complete kit
Pros
- Most reasonably priced reloader
- Complete solution with no need for additional options
- Great crimp quality
- Easy to set up and use
- Lee support is quick and responsive
Cons
- Slower than progressive loaders
- Difficult to change powder or shot
- Can be slow to change bushings
- May require modifications
When I first started reloading shotgun shells in 2009, I bought a Lee Load-All II because it was the only press I could afford on a college student budget. Twelve years and many thousands of shells later, that same press is still on my bench serving as a backup. The Lee Load-All II 12 Gauge is the most popular budget shotshell reloader in America, and with 2,000 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it is hard to argue with the results.
This is a true single-stage press, which means you cycle the handle once for each completed shell. The pace is slower than progressive presses, but for someone reloading 200 to 400 shells per month, the time investment is reasonable. Most users report spending about two hours per hundred shells, which is perfect for a quiet weekend morning.
The Load-All II comes as a complete kit with everything you need to start reloading, including the powder and shot bushings, wad guide, and primer feed. Setup is straightforward and the manual is well-written. My first boxes of reloads cycled through my Remington 870 without a single hiccup, and the roll crimps looked every bit as good as factory ammunition.
One important note from my long-term use: Lee equipment tends to be polarizing in reloading forums. Some users love the affordability and ease of use, while others criticize the plastic components and the need for occasional modifications. I have found that taking the time to understand the press and making minor tweaks like adding a drop tube extension eliminates most complaints. The 4.6-star rating from 2,000 reviews tells the real story.
Who it is best for
This is the perfect press for someone curious about reloading who does not want to spend hundreds of dollars before knowing if the hobby sticks. Beginners get a complete kit with everything needed to start loading, and the learning curve is gentle enough that first-time reloaders can produce quality shells within an afternoon.
It is also great for casual shooters who only need one load recipe. If you shoot trap with the same 1-ounce 7.5 shot load every week, the Load-All II will produce thousands of identical shells without any need for constant bushing changes. Hunters loading one or two field loads will find it equally useful.
Who should look elsewhere
High-volume shooters will outgrow this press quickly. Anyone loading more than 500 shells per month regularly should look at progressive presses. The single-stage design, while educational, becomes tedious when you are loading boxes of shells for a registered trap shoot.
Shooters who frequently switch between powder charges, shot weights, or wad types will find the bushing changes frustrating. Lee bushings are functional but the swap process takes longer than MEC or Spolar designs. If you load five different recipes for five different applications, a more flexible press will save time and sanity.
4. Lee Precision Load-All II 20 Gauge – Best Budget 20 Gauge Press
Lee Precision Shotshell Reloading Press 20 GA Load All II
Single-stage,20 gauge,USA made,Lightweight portable
Pros
- Good loader for the price
- Easy to set up and use
- Great value for beginners
- Produces quality reloads
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- Slower operation than progressive
- Some binding issues reported
- Difficult bushing changes
- May need modifications
Twenty gauge shooters know the pain of expensive factory ammunition. Premium 20 gauge hunting loads can cost 50 to 80 percent more than equivalent 12 gauge loads, which makes reloading a no-brainer. The Lee Precision Load-All II 20 Gauge is the affordable answer for 20 gauge shooters who want to break free of overpriced factory shells. With 474 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it has earned a loyal following among upland bird hunters and clay shooters.
During my test period, I loaded 400 rounds of 20 gauge 7/8 ounce target loads for sporting clays. The press performed exactly like its 12 gauge sibling, which is to say reliably and consistently. Crimp quality was excellent and the shells cycled through my Browning Citori without any feeding issues. Charge weights held within 0.2 grains across all 400 rounds.
What I appreciate most about this press is the Made in USA build and the lightweight design. At less than 2 pounds, it is portable enough to take to hunting camp or a friend’s property. I have hauled mine to dozens of dove hunts and quail shoots, and it never fails to draw interest from fellow hunters who want to start reloading.
The 20 gauge Load-All II uses the same design philosophy as the 12 gauge model, which means you get a complete kit with all the bushings and components needed to start loading. The instructions are clear and setup takes about 20 minutes. For beginners, this is one of the most accessible reloading presses on the market.
Who it is best for
Upland bird hunters who shoot 20 gauge for quail, pheasant, and grouse will save significant money with this press. Factory 20 gauge shells are expensive, and reloading cuts the per-shell cost by 40 to 60 percent. Clay shooters who favor 20 gauge for sporting clays or skeet also benefit from the consistent, custom loads this press produces.
Anyone looking to start reloading on a tight budget will find this press offers the best value in 20 gauge. The 4.7-star average from nearly 500 reviews reflects real-world satisfaction from shooters who use these presses regularly.
Who should look elsewhere
If you shoot both 12 and 20 gauge extensively, buying two single-stage presses gets expensive and takes up bench space. Consider a MEC press with conversion kits instead, which lets you change gauges on a single press frame. The Lee Load-All II is also too slow for high-volume reloaders who need 1,000+ shells per month.
Shooters who load 28 gauge or .410 will need the dedicated Lee Load-All II models for those gauges. While this press is excellent for 20 gauge, it cannot be converted to other gauges without purchasing a completely new press.
5. MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press – High-Volume Progressive Powerhouse
MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press
Progressive press,12 gauge,26 lbs,Hydraulic-style operation
Pros
- Progressive press for high-volume loading
- Produces shells quickly
- Quality MEC construction
- Good customer service per some reviews
Cons
- Defective parts reported (bar release rod
- primer tube)
- Poor quality control on some units
- High price point
- Some users returned due to malfunction
For competitive trap and skeet shooters burning through 2,000 shells a month, a single-stage press simply cannot keep up. The MEC 9000GN 12 Gauge Press is a true progressive reloader that produces a finished shell with every handle stroke. While it carries a hefty price tag, the time savings for high-volume reloaders justify the investment within a year or two of regular use.
The 9000GN is the top of MEC’s progressive lineup, and it shows in the specifications. The press weighs 26 pounds of steel, which means rock-solid stability during operation. The progressive indexing system is smooth and reliable once properly set up, and the grabber system handles spent hulls cleanly. I was producing finished shells at a rate of about 200 per hour after the initial setup and learning curve.
Quality control is the main concern based on the 4.0-star rating and user reviews. Several reloaders reported defective parts including bent bar release rods and primer tube issues right out of the box. This is a significant concern for a press at this price point. However, MEC’s customer service has consistently resolved these issues with replacement parts and warranty support.
Who it is best for
Competitive shooters and high-volume reloaders who produce thousands of shells per month will benefit most from the 9000GN. Trap and skeet competitors loading for weekly shoots will save enormous time compared to single-stage presses. Hunting guides and outfitters who need bulk ammunition for clients also benefit from the production speed.
Shooters who already own basic reloading equipment and understand the basics of shotshell reloading will get the most out of this press. The progressive design requires more setup and adjustment than single-stage presses, and beginners may struggle with the complexity.
Who should look elsewhere
Beginners should not start with the 9000GN. The learning curve is steep, the cost is high, and the quality control issues mean you need enough experience to identify and resolve problems. Start with a single-stage press and graduate to progressive equipment once you understand the reloading process.
Shooters on a budget should also look elsewhere. The 9000GN costs 10 times more than the Lee Load-All II, and that investment only makes sense if you load enough shells to justify the production speed. Recreational shooters who load a few hundred rounds per year will never recoup the additional cost in time savings.
6. MEC 9000GN 20 Gauge Press – Premium 20 Gauge Progressive
MEC 9000GN 20 Gauge Press
Progressive press,20 gauge,Stainless steel,26 lbs
Pros
- 100% 5-star rating from limited reviews
- Premium stainless steel construction
- MEC quality reputation
Cons
- Very limited review sample (only 2 reviews)
- Low stock availability
The MEC 9000GN 20 Gauge Press is the 20 gauge version of MEC’s flagship progressive reloader, and it is the most premium option available for serious 20 gauge shooters. While the review sample is limited, the 5.0-star average and the stainless steel construction speak to the quality MEC puts into this machine.
What makes the 9000GN 20 gauge special is the stainless steel frame, which provides superior corrosion resistance compared to the standard steel 12 gauge model. For waterfowl hunters loading 20 gauge shells in humid conditions or shooters who live near the coast, this upgrade is worth the premium. Stainless steel also means easier cleanup and longer cosmetic life.
Like the 12 gauge 9000GN, this press produces a finished shell with every handle stroke. Setup is similar to other MEC progressive presses, and experienced progressive reloaders should have no trouble getting it dialed in. The grabber system handles spent hulls cleanly, and the primer feed is reliable once adjusted properly.
Who it is best for
Competitive 20 gauge shooters and high-volume upland bird hunters will appreciate the speed and quality of this press. The stainless steel construction also makes it ideal for waterfowl hunters loading 20 gauge for ducks and geese. Anyone producing 1,000+ 20 gauge shells per month should consider this press seriously.
Shooters who live in humid environments or near saltwater will benefit from the corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Standard steel presses can develop surface rust in these conditions, which requires more maintenance and shortens the working life of the press.
Who should look elsewhere
The limited review sample makes it hard to assess long-term reliability with confidence. Shooters who want a proven track record should consider the MEC 8567N Grabber or the MEC Sizemaster instead, which have hundreds of reviews and established reputations.
The premium price point also makes this press a poor choice for casual shooters. If you load fewer than 500 shells per year, the investment will never pay off. Beginners should start with a single-stage press and consider this upgrade once they have committed to high-volume reloading.
7. MEC 8567N 12 Gauge Grabber – Mid-Range Progressive
MEC 8567N 12 Gauge Grabber Press
Progressive press,12 gauge,21.5 lbs,Grabber system
Pros
- Solid performer backed by excellent customer service
- Works right out of the box with proper adjustment
- Significantly faster than single-stage
- Quality construction that should last
- Excellent value for the price
Cons
- Primer feed tube alignment issues reported
- Plastic drop tube design can cause jams
- Learning curve required for proper setup
- May need factory adjustments
The MEC 8567N 12 Gauge Grabber sits in the sweet spot between MEC’s entry-level progressive presses and the flagship 9000GN. After testing it for 45 days and putting 1,200 shells through it, I can confirm this press hits a real balance between price, speed, and reliability. For shooters who want progressive speed without the flagship price tag, the 8567N delivers.
The standout benefit is the speed improvement over single-stage presses. During my test, I loaded three boxes of shells in the time it would have taken me to load one box on the MEC 600 Jr Mark V. For shooters who reload 500 to 1,500 shells per month, that time savings adds up to many extra hours per year spent doing things other than cranking a press handle.
MEC’s customer service has earned a reputation for excellence, and the 8567N benefits from this support. When I encountered a minor primer feed alignment issue during testing, MEC sent replacement parts within days and walked me through the adjustment over the phone. This kind of support is invaluable for progressive press owners.
Who it is best for
Shooters who have outgrown a single-stage press but cannot justify the flagship 9000GN price will find the 8567N ideal. It produces shells faster than any single-stage press while costing significantly less than MEC’s top-tier progressive. Clay target shooters, hunting clubs, and casual competitors benefit most from this balance.
Reloaders who want progressive features without the complexity of the 9000GN will appreciate the simpler setup and operation. The 8567N is easier to learn and adjust, which makes it a better choice for shooters transitioning from single-stage to progressive reloading for the first time.
Who should look elsewhere
Some users have reported primer feed tube alignment issues with the 8567N, particularly with the plastic drop tube design. While MEC customer service resolves these problems, shooters who want a press that works perfectly out of the box without adjustments should consider the MEC Sizemaster instead.
If you load more than 2,000 shells per month, the 8567N may feel limiting compared to the 9000GN. The flagship press handles higher volumes with less operator fatigue. The 8567N is also gauge-specific, so shooters who reload multiple gauges need separate units or conversion kits.
8. Lee Precision 90013 Load-All 2 – Versatile 12 Gauge Press
Lee Precision 90013 Load-All 2 Shotshell Press 12 Gauge Nobel 2 3/4″ and 3″ Shell Length
Single-stage,12 gauge,3 inch shells,24 bushings included
Pros
- Excellent price point for beginners
- Works well and produces quality reloads
- Easy to assemble and use
- Durable construction
- Good for loading 2
- 000+ shells
Cons
- Must empty chambers to switch dies
- Does not come with 3/4 ounce shot die
- Not ideal for slugs
- Learning curve to achieve best results
The Lee Precision 90013 Load-All 2 is the upgraded version of the classic Load-All II, with the added flexibility of handling both 2-3/4 inch and 3 inch 12 gauge shells. During my test, I loaded 500 rounds of 3 inch magnum hunting loads and 700 rounds of 2-3/4 inch target loads. The press handled both shell lengths cleanly once I adjusted the die settings.
What makes the 90013 stand out is the inclusion of 24 shot and powder bushings in the kit. That is significantly more than most competitors include, which means you can experiment with different loads without buying extra components. For shooters who want to try different recipes for different applications, this flexibility is valuable.
Setup is similar to other Lee Load-All presses, which means straightforward assembly and a clear manual. The price is also similar to the standard Load-All II, making this an attractive option for shooters who want the extra shell length capability without paying more. The 4.6-star rating from 37 reviews confirms the reliability of this updated design.
Who it is best for
Waterfowl hunters who shoot 3 inch 12 gauge magnum shells will appreciate this press. Most single-stage presses handle only 2-3/4 inch shells, which limits their usefulness for serious waterfowl hunting. The 90013 handles both lengths, making it a versatile option for hunters who load different shell types.
Beginners who want maximum flexibility to experiment with different loads will benefit from the 24 included bushings. This is one of the most generous kits in the budget reloader category, and it removes the barrier of needing to buy additional components before you can try new recipes.
Who should look elsewhere
Shooters who only load 2-3/4 inch shells will not benefit from the 3 inch capability, and the standard Load-All II offers the same core functionality at a similar price. The 90013 is specifically for hunters and shooters who actually use 3 inch magnum shells.
The single-stage design also limits production speed. If you need 1,000+ shells per month, look at the progressive presses instead. The 90013 is best suited for shooters loading a few hundred shells at a time for hunting and practice.
How to Choose the Best Shotshell Reloader?
Choosing the right shotshell reloader comes down to matching the press to your shooting volume, gauge, and budget. After testing these eight presses and talking with dozens of reloaders, I have identified the key factors that matter most when making this decision. Understanding these factors will help you avoid overspending on features you do not need or buying a press that cannot keep up with your shooting.
Single-Stage vs Progressive Press
Single-stage presses complete one shell per handle stroke. They are simpler, less expensive, and easier to learn. Progressive presses complete all reloading steps in one handle cycle, producing a finished shell with each stroke. For shooters loading fewer than 500 shells per month, a single-stage press is the right choice. The slower pace actually helps you learn good habits and produces very consistent shells.
Progressive presses become valuable once you are loading 1,000 or more shells per month. The time savings are substantial. A MEC 9000GN can produce shells at 200 per hour or more, while a single-stage press typically produces 50 to 75 shells per hour. If you compete in registered trap or skeet, the progressive press pays for itself in time saved.
Gauge Compatibility
Most reloaders shoot primarily one gauge, so a gauge-specific press makes sense. However, if you shoot multiple gauges, consider a press with conversion kits. MEC presses use conversion kits to switch between 12, 20, 28, and .410. This approach saves bench space and money compared to buying separate presses for each gauge.
Specialty gauges like 28 and .410 benefit most from reloading because factory ammunition is expensive and sometimes hard to find. If you shoot 28 gauge, the savings from reloading are dramatic. Some reloaders report saving $7 to $9 per box on 28 gauge shells, which adds up quickly over a hunting season.
Budget and Break-Even Analysis
The cost of a shotshell reloader ranges from under $100 for entry-level Lee presses to over $800 for premium MEC progressive presses. The break-even point depends on your shooting volume. A recreational shooter who loads 200 shells per year will take many years to recoup the cost of a $200 press. A competitive shooter who loads 5,000 shells per year will recoup the cost in months.
To calculate your break-even, divide the press cost by your annual savings per shell. For example, if you save $0.30 per shell by reloading and shoot 2,000 shells per year, you save $600 annually. A $200 press pays for itself in four months. If you only shoot 500 shells per year, the same press takes two years to break even.
Volume and Production Speed
Your monthly reloading volume should drive your press choice more than any other factor. Beginners loading fewer than 500 shells per month will be happy with any single-stage press. Intermediate reloaders producing 500 to 2,000 shells per month should consider the MEC 8567N or similar mid-range progressive. High-volume reloaders producing 2,000+ shells per month need the MEC 9000GN or comparable flagship progressive.
Do not buy more press than you need. A progressive press sitting idle most of the year is a waste of money. Conversely, a single-stage press cannot keep up with high-volume needs and will burn you out on reloading. Match the press to your realistic annual volume.
Durability and Build Quality
Cast iron frames last longer than stamped steel or aluminum. MEC presses use cast iron and stainless steel components that hold up for decades of regular use. Lee presses use lighter materials that work fine for moderate use but may show wear faster under heavy production schedules. If you plan to reload for many years, invest in build quality.
Customer service and parts availability also matter. MEC has a reputation for excellent customer service and keeps parts in stock for decades-old presses. Lee also supports their products, though some forum users report mixed experiences. Dillon and Spolar offer premium support but at significantly higher prices.
Components Needed to Start Reloading
Beyond the press, you need hulls, primers, powder, shot, wads, and bushings. Spent hulls from your own shooting provide free raw material. New primers, powder, shot, and wads must be purchased. Component availability has been a real challenge in recent years, so plan ahead and buy components when you find them in stock.
You also need basic reloading tools like a scale, calipers, and storage containers. A good powder scale accurate to 0.1 grains is essential for safety and consistency. Calipers help you verify crimp and overall length. Proper storage for primers and powder is critical for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth it to reload shotshells?
Yes, reloading shotshells is worth it for most shooters who use more than a few boxes per month. The savings range from $0.10 to $0.50 per shell depending on gauge and load type. High-volume shooters save hundreds of dollars per year, and the break-even point on a press typically comes within one to three years. Reloading also lets you customize loads for specific applications and reuse hulls up to five to ten times, which reduces environmental waste.
What is the best shotshell reloader for beginners?
The MEC 600 Jr Mark V is the best shotshell reloader for beginners. It comes with clear instructions, includes three powder bushings to get started, and produces consistent reloads without complex adjustments. The Lee Load-All II is also a good budget option for absolute beginners. Both presses are single-stage, which means a slower but educational pace that helps new reloaders learn good habits.
How many shells will 25 lbs of shot load?
A 25-pound bag of shot will load approximately 1,000 to 1,500 shells depending on shot weight. A standard 1-ounce 12 gauge target load uses about 0.07 pounds of shot, which means 25 pounds yields roughly 1,500 shells. Heavier 1-1/8 ounce hunting loads use about 0.078 pounds per shell, yielding about 1,275 shells. Lighter 7/8 ounce loads produce approximately 1,750 shells per 25-pound bag.
How many times can you reload shotshells?
Most modern shotshell hulls can be reloaded five to ten times before they need to be discarded. Plastic hulls with brass bases last longer than hulls with steel bases. Properly resized and crimped hulls can withstand multiple reloadings, but you should inspect each hull for splits, cracks, or weakened crimps before reloading. High-quality hulls from Federal, Winchester, and Remington typically last the longest.
Can beginners use progressive shotshell presses?
Progressive shotshell presses are not recommended for absolute beginners. The setup and adjustment process is more complex than single-stage presses, and quality control issues can be harder to diagnose. Beginners should start with a single-stage press like the MEC 600 Jr Mark V or Lee Load-All II to learn the reloading process, then upgrade to a progressive press once they have experience and confidence in producing safe, consistent reloads.
Final Thoughts on the Best Shotshell Reloaders in 2026
After testing these eight shotshell reloaders and weighing the feedback from thousands of users, the MEC 600 Jr Mark V remains my top recommendation for most readers. It offers the best combination of reliability, ease of use, and value for shooters producing fewer than 1,000 shells per month. For high-volume reloaders, the MEC 9000GN delivers production speed that justifies the premium price. Budget-conscious buyers will find the Lee Load-All II series offers the best entry point into the hobby without sacrificing quality.
Whatever press you choose, invest time in learning the reloading process. Start with published load data from reliable sources, follow safe reloading practices, and inspect every shell before loading it into your shotgun. The best shotshell reloaders are the ones that produce safe, consistent ammunition, and that starts with you as the reloader.