I started loading for 20 gauge almost 30 years ago. I did it because I could load cheaper than the premium loads, which performed much better than the cheap game loads. Lately I don't shoot many rounds of shotgun ammo per year- the rabbit and quail population has really declined. But since I had the equipment, I kept loading.
Two years ago I bought an Ithaca 37 in 16 gauge and could not reliably find shells for it. I bought a cheap press and am loading for it. If I can find good loads, they are about $15 per box. Hand loads cut that in half and the load kills far better than the cheap game loads which are sometimes available and cost about the same as my premium hand loads.
