Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) has revolutionized waterfowl hunting, offering superior downrange energy and lethality compared to traditional lead or steel shot. However, reloading TSS presents unique challenges and requires precise data for optimal performance. This guide dives deep into the intricacies of TSS shot reloading, providing essential information for achieving consistent, effective loads.
Understanding the Unique Properties of TSS
Before delving into reloading data, understanding TSS's characteristics is crucial. Its higher density compared to steel or lead necessitates adjustments in reloading parameters. This higher density translates to:
- Increased recoil: Expect significantly more recoil than with traditional shotshells.
- Higher pressures: TSS loads generate higher pressures, requiring careful attention to component selection and powder charges.
- Reduced shot capacity: Due to its density, you'll fit fewer TSS pellets into a given hull size.
- Potential for increased barrel wear: While not inherently more abrasive than other shot types, the higher velocity and impact energy can contribute to accelerated barrel wear over time.
Gathering the Necessary Reloading Equipment and Components
Reloading TSS successfully requires specific equipment and components. Don't skimp on quality; precision is paramount for safe and effective loads.
Essential Equipment:
- Shot measuring device: A precise scale is crucial for accurate TSS shot weighing.
- Powder scale: A scale capable of measuring small powder charges with high accuracy.
- Press: A reloading press capable of handling the higher pressures associated with TSS loads.
- Dies: Dies specifically designed for the shotshell gauge you're reloading.
- Loading tools: Appropriate tools for seating wads and primers.
Key Components:
- Shotshells: Choose hulls designed to withstand the higher pressures generated by TSS loads. Consult reloading manuals for hull recommendations.
- TSS shot: Source TSS shot from reputable suppliers; shot size and quality greatly influence performance.
- Powder: Select a powder specifically recommended for TSS loads in your chosen shotshell gauge. Experimentation is discouraged; always consult loading data.
- Wads: Use wads specifically designed for TSS loads and your chosen hull type. The wad's design significantly impacts pellet distribution and overall performance.
- Primers: Use primers appropriate for your chosen shotshell gauge.
Finding and Utilizing Reliable TSS Reloading Data
This is arguably the most crucial aspect of TSS reloading. Never attempt to extrapolate or modify reloading data from other shot types. The higher density of TSS requires different powder charges and pressures.
Sources for Reliable Data:
- Reputable reloading manuals: Look for manuals specifically addressing TSS reloading data. These manuals should detail specific powder charges, wads, and other components for various hull and shot sizes.
- Powder manufacturers' websites: Many powder manufacturers provide loading data on their websites. Always check for updates and ensure the data is specifically for TSS.
- TSS shot manufacturers: Some TSS manufacturers may provide reloading data or collaborate with reloading manual publishers.
Interpreting Reloading Data:
Reloading data typically includes:
- Hull type: The specific hull to use.
- Powder type and charge: The type and weight of powder.
- Wad type: The type of wad.
- Primer type: The type of primer.
- Shot type and weight: The type and weight of TSS shot.
- Pressure: The maximum pressure generated by the load.
- Velocity: The muzzle velocity of the shot.
Always adhere strictly to the published reloading data. Any deviation can lead to dangerous pressure spikes or malfunctioning rounds.
Safety Precautions for TSS Reloading
TSS reloading necessitates extra caution due to the higher pressures involved.
- Wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Carefully follow all reloading procedures.
- Never exceed the recommended powder charge.
- Regularly inspect your equipment for wear and tear.
- Dispose of misfired or damaged rounds safely.
Reloading TSS shot demands precision and meticulous attention to detail. By understanding the unique properties of TSS and strictly following established reloading data, you can confidently create powerful and effective loads for your hunting pursuits. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.
