Does anyone know the velocity drop off for steel shot?

[ADAMS]

Somewhere out there is some data that shows the velocity drop off for steel shot by shot size.  For instance, if a #6 steel pellet leaves the muzzle at 1,400fps, it will be traveling at "X" fps at 35 yards.

No? 

[uncoolperson]

If you're doing it right (hit something), should come to 0 about there.

(sorry, got nothing... had to make a funny)

[JackOfAllTrades]

Actually, Steel shot, that's the same size as a given lead shot pellet has slightly more velocity. But since a given pellet size weighs less, the result is less kinetic energy transfered down range.  So, a hunter that would normally use #7 1/2 Lead shot for Grouse would use the near equivelant of #6 Steel shot.  Steel shot brings other issues.. Previously mentioned less energy delivered, and since the case has larger shot, it won't hold as many. Thus less pellets in flight to the target. Also, steel shot does not fly as true as lead in any given weight.

-Steve

[CP]

It drops off fast.  #2 with MV of 1400 f/s will be down to 900 f/s at 20 yard (that is a 60% energy loss).  Any good reloading guide should give you the data you are looking for. 

But it doesn’t all drop at the same rate so it tends to string out.  I’ve found #2 pellets just under the skin of ducks shot at close range, while other pellets in the same duck penetrated deep enough to kill it.  Steel shot sucks.   More ducks have probably been crippled with steel shot than have been saved from lead poisoning.  Stupid law.

[jackelope]

it starts off faster because it is lighter, but slows down and drops faster for the same reason(thus less KE downrange right?). i've never seen a chart or anything on it though.

[ADAMS]

CP, where did you get that data? (#2 with MV of 1400 f/s will be down to 900 f/s at 20 yards)

Thanks.

[Curly]

Adams, I think I've seen the chart you're refering to.  I'm trying to remember where.  Here is an article that might interest you:  http://www.duckhuntingchat.com/shotgun-shell-ballistics.php

[CP]

CP, where did you get that data? (#2 with MV of 1400 f/s will be down to 900 f/s at 20 yards)

Thanks.

RSI Steel Shot Reloader’s Handbook.  I haven’t started handloading loading steel yet but I’m considering it.

[CP]

Adams, I think I've seen the chart you're refering to.  I'm trying to remember where.  Here is an article that might interest you:  http://www.duckhuntingchat.com/shotgun-shell-ballistics.php

That's a good read, thanks for the link. 

[JackOfAllTrades]

Some more good info.

http://shotshell.drundel.com/steel.htm

Jackalope-  Yes. Kinda.. Think 100gn 243win vs 180gn 30-06. Both pretty much leave the barrel at the same speed. The velocity isn't reduced in flight travel by extremes, (yes all bullets slow down as they travel farther), but if the bullets/shot are equal in initial velocity, the heavier projectile will retain more energy at given distance. Same thing with Steel vs Lead shot since steel is lighter. To get the same weight of steel shot as lead, you have to increas shot size, thus increases wind/friction load on the forward face of the projectile. That slows it down too. Thus, even less delivered energy by comparison to lead of the same or even a bit less weight.

I took the initial post to think that he thought that Steel shot had a lower initial velocity than lead shot. My misinterpretation. 

-Steve

[ADAMS]

Great article.  Really.

Thanks for all your posts guys.

[EastWaViking]

The velocity dropped off 10 yards short of the geese today.