Is it true that any 2 3/4" star crimped load will be approximately the same as a 2 1/2" roll crimp. In other words, if I get on the Hodgdon website and made a roll crimped 2 1/2" load with a cut down AA hull and a recipe from a 2 3/4" load, will pressures remain similar and performance be close, out will I simply blow up my gun or myself?

Also, simple solutions for cutting the hulls would be appreciated.

Pressures will be very similar and the load data does interchange quite nicely. Good shooting!

Ballistic Products has reloading manuals for 2.5" loads and data to make 2.5" hulls from 2 3/4" hulls along with wads, tools, and just about everything you need for specialty shotshell loading.

http://www.ballisticproducts.com/

"Last time I saw a chance like you, I shot about there."

Not to worry if anything roll crimped shells will create slightly lower chamber presuures.

Thanks for the replies. I created a simple cutting mechanism by taking a piece of 3/8" iron gas pipe and screwing it down to my work bench, measured out so that a razor knife could cut to the right length. Then I took the bolt out of my razor knife and put a screw through that hole and into the side of the bench. The knife pivots on the screw, contacting the shell, which is placed over the pipe, and cutting it as I hand turn the shell. Turned out pretty handy and cuts very straight and cleanly. Cost me about $4 for the section of pipe and some new razor blades.

Now, I will just have to see if I can get the shells to roll crimp.

Gaep in Italy has some really high quality roll crimpers.

Ballistic Products have hull cutters, I use one. Check out their online catalogue, although Mr Cody's sounds fine, I might use a 1/2 wood dowel instead of an iron pipe