Alternatives to Federal 20S1 Wads for Reloading?

I’m in need of some advice about finding replacements for Federal 20S1 wads for my 20 gauge shotgun reloading. I’ve been using them for a while now, but I’ve run into some supply issues and I’m looking for alternatives that can deliver similar performance.

Here are a few points I’d love to discuss:

  • Replacement Options: What wads have you all found that work well in place of the Federal 20S1? I’m specifically interested in wads that can fit well within various 20 gauge hulls.
  • Performance: If you’ve tried any replacements, how do they compare in terms of accuracy, spread, and overall performance?
  • Availability: Are there specific brands or local shops that are usually reliable for stocking compatible wads?

I appreciate any insights, experiences, or suggestions you guys can share. Whether you’ve got a favorite substitute or just some tips on what to look for, I’d love to hear it. Thanks in advance for your help!

The Federal 20S1 wad has very specific dimensions, typically around 1.125 inches in height and made from a durable plastic material. It’s designed for 20-gauge applications and tends to perform well in various loads, especially for target shooting.

I’ve found that while the Federal wads are reliable, you can experiment with wads like the Claybuster CB0138-20, which are also meant for 20-gauge and have a similar height.

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What specific performance characteristics are you looking for? Some wads may produce different patterns or velocity results based on their material composition, which can affect your reloading process.

I’m specifically looking for wads that can maintain consistent patterns and handle varied powder types. Any suggestions?

For reliable performance with various powders, the Remington SP20 is another solid choice. It holds up well under various conditions, and the material is quite resilient.

That’s interesting! I’ve never tried the Remington SP20. Do its dimensions differ much from the Federal 20S1?

Yes, the Remington SP20 tends to be slightly taller at about 1.22 inches. This can affect how wads stack in the shell, potentially leading to different pressure behaviors.

That makes sense. I always find it challenging to predict how different wads will perform based on their specs. Any tips on how to test them effectively?

Definitely! It’s best to start with small batches of reloaded shells using new wads and measure the results. Pay attention to both patterns and recoil to gauge their effectiveness.

Great advice! I’ll definitely take that approach. By the way, has anyone encountered any funny mishaps while trying out new wads?

Oh, I once mixed up my wads, ended up with a load that sounded like a pop gun! It was hilarious, but I learned to label everything properly after that!

I’ve been using the Claybuster CB0100 wads as a substitute for the Federal 20S1. They perform well for me in 20 gauge loads. Just make sure to check the fit with your specific load data!

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I’ve tried the CB0100 too! I’ve found them very reliable for my reloading needs, especially in sporting clays. They seem to give a consistent pattern.

I’ve had some good results using the Downrange DR20 wads. They have a nice fit in the hull and provide a good seal. It’s worth a try if you’re looking for alternatives.

I’ll second that, ymiller! The DR20s are a solid option for 20 gauge. I also appreciate their affordability!

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I recently switched to the RST wads and have been very pleased with their performance. They seem to be less affected by temperature changes, which has helped in my area’s fluctuating weather.

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Speaking of weather, can anyone share how different wads perform in humid conditions? I’ve had some issues with certain brands sticking in the hulls when it’s damp.

That’s a great point, michael51! I’ve found that the Downrange wads maintain integrity even in high humidity, which could be beneficial for your needs.

It sounds like a lot of people are having success with Claybuster and Downrange wads! I’ve always been kind of a die-hard Federal fan, but maybe it’s time to experiment a bit more.