steel or lead shot in 12 ga.?

[shagg]

I think i'm going to give shotshell loading a try. I've been looking at data and cost of supplies. Is there any reason not to use steel shot to save money? I would think its harder on the gun, my very old lefever nitro special. Its not a pristine example but is fully functional. I recently started shooting clays with my friend and we have a bunch of win AA shells we saved.
I was also wondering if i can make lead shot and how?

Thanx for any help,
Ron

[Johnch]

IMO load lead , as it will be cheaper
I know shot is up close to $45-50 a 25 lb bag again , but steel is in the $16 - 18 for 10 lb ( a little cheaper per load )
But the freight is where the savings as I can pick up lead shot localy , where I have to pay like $12 to have 40 lb of steel shot shipped ( flat rate box )

The lead wads are $9 a bag of 500 , steel shot wads are $9 -$15 per bag of 100
Powder for lead 14 gr compaired to 25 -40 for steel loads
Lead loads , the hulls last a lot of loads like 12 or more with Rem STS hulls , steel loads 2 or 3 before the crimp starts to give out
If you are still interested in steel shot loads
Alliant lists some nice 2 3/4" loads

And yes you can make lead shot
Do a search for shot makers , lots of posts

John

[Rico1950]

If you shotgun wasn't manufactured when steel was available, steel shot will be too hard for the barrel. Even using steel shot wads.