I load because I get a better product, tailored to my needs. I like light loads - 7/8 oz in 12, 3/4 oz in 20 - and can't find any quality loads in these specs that are reasonably priced.
There are some 7/8 oz loads for 12 gauge, notably those by Federal, but they are limited to #8s and the shot is softer than I want. Mine are loaded with #7.5 w/ hard "magnum" high antimony shot, producing great patterns. I've not come across any 3/4 ox factory loads for the 20, though I'm sure they are out there.
Find me an STS, AA or Gold Medal load w/ 7/8 oz of magnum shot at 1200 fps (not the "sporting clay" loads at 1300+) priced at under $8/box and I'll consider stopping my reloading operation. And BTW, the premium loads are better, mostly because of shot hardness and quality control. Do some patterning and you will see that.
I load a box of 12 gauge ammo as I've described for about $4.70, buying in bulk and at good component prices.
