Thread: Steel shot-a great article

When non-toxic shot became compulsory, I set about trying different shotgun shell brands and loads, doing pattern tests and penetration tests. I settled on some loads which proved OK, but I was disappointed in the pattern densities. Over the years, shells have become faster, and I switched to the fast loads of 1-1/8 in 3" shells. These grunty shells have played havoc with my (and my son's) shotguns, meaning I have had to buy replacement parts (action bar sleeves and the bar itself). They have been fractured in both our shotties.
The last couple of years we have been trying some 2-3/4" shells for the first shot for decoying ducks with good success, but I have suspected that we may have been limiting ourselves with the reduced patterns of the 1-1/8 3" shells with bigger pellets on the longer shots.
In the latest NZ Hunter magazine, there is a great article by Paul Stenning about this very subject - density v speed, and if you have been having doubts about your patterns using the ultra fast loads, then I reckon you should read that article. I personally found it backed up what I suspected. I really should have done more testing of the new fast loads, but I bought into the write-ups from the retailers.
I know I will be testing my loads for this year.