Shotshell Questions

[dmarbell]

This could be a "reloading" category question, but I wanted to start here.

I have an idea for a non-lethal weapon. It will need to be fired at moderate to low speeds, much less than normal shotshell speeds - my guess is 200-400 fps muzzle velocity. I want to shoot a light cork or rubber ball at those speeds.

I'm sure this is trial and error, but does anyone have any ideas about how to load a 12 ga. shell to shoot a ball, say 1/4 oz. (+/-) at 200-400 fps?

I guess loading a wad and powder with no shot would be a good way to start? I'm worried about the ball not making it out of the barrel, with resultant problems, if the pressure is too low. I don't remember hearing of a barrel exploding when an underloaded shell fired. Doesn't the problem happen with the subsequent firing?

Danny

 

[45crittergitter]

I cannot answer your question, but I think you may have more luck posting in the reloading section. Also, these type loads are in factory production and are generally called "less lethal." You can also buy rounds that contain all manner of projectiles from darts to rubber balls to razor wire to pepper gas pellets.

 

[ArmedBear]

Doesn't the problem happen with the subsequent firing?

Yes

This is a project most easily tried in a break-action. You can look down the barrel after each shot.

Seems to me you could try a slug wad and start with a few grains of powder, and see what happens.

A standard hunting/target load in 12 Gauge is 15-25 grains depending on the powder type, payload, etc.

The problem is that 5 grains of powder takes up very little space under the wad, and you'd be looking at something in that range, probably less. On the other hand, black powder substitute like Pyrodex takes a good deal more volume for the same velocity of projectile. However, you'd have to look up formulas for loading BP shotshells before doing this! Furthermore, the stuff smokes a lot.

Beware of hang-fires. If you don't know how to handle them safely, do not try this at all!