Reloading 26.5mm CZ flaregun shells with 1 inch fireworks

[user_618]

Hi

I'm reloading some used 26.5mm aluminum CZ shells with 1 inch fireworks. Either small artillery shells or 20 shot cakes work well. Some brands are sized better than others, YMMV.

The process is pretty easy. Punch out the old primer, drill out the channel for a 209 primer, press it in, press in the 1 inch load.

7054

I shot a few with no disks, just as pictured. But wondering if i might be safer or get better performance if i seal the top. What do you think?

[displayfireworks1]

I have heard of these devices but never used one. As far as reloading , I am going to guess the cost to purchase these are expensive. Not sure if anyone on the forums can help you.

[user_618]

Thank you.

The cost of reloading these cases with 1 inch firework payloads is much less expensive per shot than the new flares. These surplus flares are hard to find these days, 5-7 bucks per shot for the simple 1 star or 3 star red flares. Color smoke and parachute illumination flares go 10-12 to 25-30 respectively.

A 6 pack of 1 inch tubes is under 10 bucks. I think i paid 8 for the last one. Not to mention, they're much more fun.

[RalphieJ]

Thank you.

The cost of reloading these cases with 1 inch firework payloads is much less expensive per shot than the new flares. These surplus flares are hard to find these days, 5-7 bucks per shot for the simple 1 star or 3 star red flares. Color smoke and parachute illumination flares go 10-12 to 25-30 respectively.

A 6 pack of 1 inch tubes is under 10 bucks. I think i paid 8 for the last one. Not to mention, they're much more fun.

Is the primer enough to send and ignite the insert, or do you have to add a pinch of BP?

[user_618]

No need for extra BP at all. Shotgun primer is very powerful and burns right through the paper tape covering the payload propellant. Flare gun launches them even better than through the plastic tube launcher they came with. Probably due to a tighter fit in the aluminum case and 2 more inches of tighter barrel.