RELOADING SAFETY
1. Exercise care and common sense at all times. 16. Examine every case before loading to ensure it is in good condition.
2. Don't become distracted when you are handloading. 17. Watch for indications of high pressures in establishing a new load.
3. Never load in haste. A careless mistake can be serious. 18. Never use smokeless powder in firearms designed for black powder.
4. Use equipment as manufacturer recommends. Never take shortcuts. 19. DO NOT use steel shot in any of the shotshell loads listed in this guide.
5. Store powder in a cool, dry place at all times. 20. Use of safety glasses while reloading is recommended.
6. Never use a powder unless you are positive of its identity. 21. Clean up any powder spills immediately. Use dust pan and brush to clean up powder. Dispose of it in accordance with recommended procedures.
7. Never substitute smokeless powder for black powder. 22. Make sure powder container is empty before disposing of container.
8. Never use IMR powder data for any other powder types with similar numerical designations. 23. Consult suppliers of components if you have any questions about their use.
9. Keep powder away from heat and open flames. 24. Check powder charges regularly to insure using proper powder charge weight.
10. Never smoke while handling powder. 25. Develop a routine for reloading to guard against mistakes.
11. Keep powder out of reach of children.  
12. Don't mix powders.
13. Don't keep more powder in an open container than you need.
14. Observe all maximum load warnings in handbooks.
15. Work up all new loads starting 10% below the recommended charge weight.

  • It should be recognized that Auto-Loading Shotguns may not function with some of the Low Chamber Pressure Loads.
  • Several Handgun Calibers show Chamber Pressure in PSI.
  • If you use Military Brass for certain Center-Fire Calibers the maximum powder charges should be lowered from data shown.

Have you read, understood, and accepted these safety guidelines?