shot shell reloading gurus i need help

[knightrider]

will it hurt any thing to load shells without buffer in them? im new to this shell anatomy stuff so how important is the buffer and what are the problems of not using it! thanks guys

[BandedSpur]

Buffer is more important with lead than with HTL, because the buffer helps lessen deformation of lead pellets, which will tighten patterns.

Buffer also helps patterns with HTL shot, not by preventing deformation (HTL shot does not deform), but by helping the pellets flow more smoothly through the choke.

In every case, adding buffer to a load will increase pressure. So if you use published buffered data, and choose not to include buffer, pressures will be lower, which is a good thing. Your patterns may not be as tight, but your load will be safe. Never add buffer to a published load that doesn't call for it, especially a load that is near max. pressure. Doing so, will increase pressure, possibly dangerously.

[Sand Man]

In every case, adding buffer to a load will increase pressure. So if you use published buffered data, and choose not to include buffer, pressures will be lower, which is a good thing. Your patterns may not be as tight, but your load will be safe. Never add buffer to a published load that doesn't call for it, especially a load that is near max. pressure. Doing so, will increase pressure, possibly dangerously.

That's been my experience as well.  I know my tungsten loads respond really well to chokes.  Patterns are almost too tight, so I went down on buffer to almost no buffer to open them up a little.