Pattern Testing

[h2ofowlr]

A perspective to look at.
Pattern Testing Some Loads

I guess if you pattern test things to look at.  Same size pellet is always a good one to test.  He shot BB - #4 on the test sheets.  I hear of a few of you papering your guns.  What loads do you choose and what chokes?
I typically test all the same shot size and same dram.  Stick to #2 with 1-1/4 or 1-1/8 and all boxes will fall in line with the same sizes.  Speed will be the variable factor.  I like to pattern at 30 and 40 yards.  I have ran as far as 60 yards on some paper to see how it does.

[snocohunter]

I have to admit i'm a little surprised that the two best pattern density were BB and #4's. Big range in shot size between the two. Obviously a lot more pellets with the #4's. Question is, in that smaller shot size, it sounds like he still has an issue with knocking down birds with a cheaper load. Lots of pellets down range doesn't mean diddly when they aren't penetrating and knocking the bird down. Finding point of aim vs point of impact is important also, which is why I pattern on a a 30" target. Trial and error in the field really is what sells me in the end I suppose. Find something that works and shoot it. May be 1 or 2 different brands and shot sizes. Of course situations vary and you have to adapt. There is no magic shell unfortunately. I don't mind spending more per shell, when it means the birds die. I buy the best I can afford.

[Camp David]

Pattern testing is important...I do it for turkey, upland, ducks and sporting clays. I also did  a lot of testing with different chokes and loads. I've shot a lot of the Kent steel; a good shell for the price. I think the biggest area that people can improve on is selecting the right choke; I normally shoot an improved cylinder for almost all birds. Steel for the most part patterns the best in my guns with improved cylinder. A lot of hunters also need to spend a lot more time @ the range learning how to shoot and how to judge distance. A lot of duck hunters shoot to far and therefore wound birds. Knowing you gun, distance and how to shoot are key to clean kills. Many people will blame steel shot for their lack of skill and preparation. I'll shoot #2s and BBs  in steel sometimes Ts for goose.  Always 3" shells.

[SnowDog]

I have done some pattern testing, but the place I go to test is a long drive. I wish it was possible to do at the Kenmore range. Anyone have suggestions closer to Bothell?

[~GooseDown~]

My SBE II loves kent 2 3/4'' or 3'' # 2's w/ a kicks highflyer full choke. Not to sure why, but it does. # 3's pattern night and day different (terrible) out of that same set up. Wish someone could explain to me how... It also patterns the original black cloud very well in # 2 shot size.

I've also found it very hard to get on target with those hypersonics. If I had to guess I'm probably shooting 2 feet in front of em w/ that stuff...