Fields mj, on ebay you can get the Mec Sizemaster used like new for a little over $100, fine reloader.
I found a load for pheasants that is magic as follows:
Rem 3" hull
36.5g of Blue Dot'
1 5/8 oz of Copper plated #5's
BP Pattern driver-Split 2/3 with 2 slits
BP Gas Seal
209 Primer
Velocity is 1275-1300 fps
Pattern with this in a standard choke chews up pheasants at 40 yards, and it good to 60 yards.
On real windy days, shoot Copper plated #4's with the same load, good to 75 yards.
If you ever get the chance to buy any 2 3/4" active hulls, buy all you can get your hands on and use the same load.
Good luck!
