It occurred to me as I plowed through tons of loading data and search for specified components that maybe, just maybe, I was being played for a sucker. For around 15 years the only shotgun data I consumed was the single sheets that came with the Lee Load All, a portion of which is pictured here.
I'll say 20k rounds or so for everything to upland birds, ducks, geese, turkey, deer and the occasional clay target. If you can read the print on the photo you'll see there are exactly 2 specifications for hulls; paper/composite base wads and plastic. Not a hint about straight walled or tapered, roll crimp or star. Primers are not even mentioned, nor wads. The new sheets are just like the ones 40 years old except for inclusion of some different powders. Not that complicated.
Now it seems we are compelled to consult this manual and that; use a very specific proprietary component no matter how inconsequential. I know, I know, the information age and better measurement techniques leads to vastly improved specialization and performance and safety. Or dare I think MARKETING has become ever more specialized to provide new profit opportunites for manufacturers and sales outlets? Like soap powders ever new; new and improved; extreme cleaning; gentler to the environment; reformulated and even better; smarter for today's new washers; gentler; 25% more free; exciting new look; fresh new scent; 30% more effective; etc, etc.
OK, I'm through now. But the world didn't end yesterday when I used a cardboard card over a couple grains shy of suggested powder yesterday, then the recommended winchester wad on top of that to use in a cheap Federal plastic base hull. They shot great. No lawyer showed up at my door. And the deer I hopefully shoot soon won't care what put the big hole through his lungs. Here's to a simpler 2019!