Stan,
Yes, I made a dipper from a 9mm case. I normally shoot 7/8 and 1 ounce loads, practically never heavier. But once I decided I wanted a spreader specifically for rabbit targets, I experimented with a variety of components to make the perfect load. I figured a flat of spreaders might last me 10 years so I made a project of it. The main charge is tailored to perfectly fill the wad cup, which is deep enough to allow the disc to sit on top without the post touching the bottom of the cup. The upper charge is tailored to allow for perfect crimps. I've tested all the factory spreaders and I'm convinced money can't buy a comparable spreader.
After shooting sporting seriously for 20 years I finally cried uncle to silly-ass-close rabbits. Threads sufficed when I used tubes but, when I went to fixed chokes, I wanted a spreader. I don't suggest they are any better than a cylinder tube if you have them, or bare threads if you're so inclined, other than the convenience of being able to drop in a special shell. For me, they are a desperation move when I need an X, otherwise I'm happy to flail away with my tight chokes.
I drop my main shot charge and raise the handle only halfway, pausing before the shell indexer releases. Then I place a disc in the wad guide and let the drop tube seat it with a light downstroke. On the full upstroke the shell moves to the pre-crimp station with a disc seated perfectly square on top. I add 1/8 ounce with my dipper, pre-crimp and drop shot in the next in line, pausing on the upstroke again. Once I establish a rhythm, it goes faster than I can describe it.
My recipe uses a clear Fiocchi hull so I can admire my handiwork (and never chamber one by mistake)...
