English style shot charger

[Pete G.]

I have one of the English style shot chargers that throws either a 1-1/4 or 1-1/2 oz, which is a bit much for a 20 ga gun. In my somewhat pragmatic but perhaps overly simplistic reasoning, I decided that to a certain extent in order to get more shot in my pattern I don't necessarily need choke, I just need more shot. More is always more, right ? Well, we won't be doing that again. That old action and reaction thing convinced me that we need to do some more work on load development.

Anybody have a suggestion as to how to modify this style charger to throw a 1 oz load ?

[Daryl]

I believe you have the one with the gates that rise and lower? How about sleeving the section by soldering the sleeve in between the gates with a section of brass tubing?  Such tubing is available at most RC airplane hobby stores. 

[Kermit]

Your experience matches mine. It's why I changed years ago to the Irish style. I like the fact that the wee scoop is all that has too move above the muzzle. Lighter, easier, and less awkward. The scoop can be set too drop 1 oz. of shot, and you can plug the bottom of the scoop with a wad or two or three to further reduce the load. I have got one scoop--you can buy just the scoop for a dedicated lighter load--that is at just about 3/4 oz. I find this style head is much more 20 gauge friendly.

[Daryl]

Actually, I think Taylor has some Irish 'heads and would probably sell the whole deal - should screw right into your shot bag and convert it to the Irish measure.

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

Thanks for the plug Daryl.  Anyone wanting an Irish flask head, see the For Sale forum please.

[Dave K]

I have sleeved all mine down by using the brass tubing that can be found at hobby shops or hardware stores. It is real easy and you don't have to solder them between the two gates, if you buy the tubing that has a nice fit. I use a powder scale to weigh the shot so that I can actually adjust the length of the sleeve to get the exact shot weight I want.  I have 3 different sleeves and of course several shoot flasks that have been adjusted to a low of 7/8oz. for the 20ga. to 1 oz. for the 14-18ga. and 1 1/8oz. for the 12ga. Just make sure you put some sort of identifying mark on the English head as it what if is now dispensing. Every year I have to weigh my shot the first time I go hunting to make sure I have the right flask. Duh......