Choosing the right shotgun shells can significantly impact your performance in skeet and trap shooting. This isn't just about picking the cheapest option; the ideal shell depends on several factors, including your shotgun, your shooting style, and the specific demands of the disciplines. This guide will delve into the key considerations and help you select the best shells for your needs.
Understanding the Variables: Gauge, Shot Size, and More
Before diving into specific shell recommendations, let's understand the crucial factors influencing shell selection:
1. Gauge:
Shotgun gauge refers to the diameter of the barrel. Common gauges for skeet and trap include 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and 28 gauge.
- 12 Gauge: The most popular choice, offering a wide variety of loads and a powerful recoil. It's generally favored by beginners and experienced shooters alike.
- 20 Gauge: A lighter recoil option, making it ideal for shooters who find 12 gauge too powerful, particularly women and younger shooters. It offers a good balance between power and manageability.
- 28 Gauge: The lightest recoil option, making it the most comfortable to shoot, but with a slightly reduced range and payload compared to 12 and 20 gauge.
2. Shot Size:
Shot size significantly impacts the pattern density and effective range of your shot. For skeet and trap, the most common sizes are:
- 7 1/2: The smallest commonly used shot size, providing the highest pattern density at close range, ideal for skeet. It's less effective at longer ranges.
- 8: A good all-around shot size suitable for both skeet and trap, offering a balance between pattern density and range.
- 7 1/2 and 8 Mix: Some manufacturers offer blends of 7 1/2 and 8 shot sizes. This mix balances higher density at closer targets (7 1/2) with additional reach (8) for more distant targets.
3. Shot Type:
The type of shot significantly influences performance:
- Lead: Traditional and cost-effective, lead shot is still commonly used, particularly in less regulated shooting areas.
- Steel: Environmentally friendly and increasingly popular, steel shot offers similar performance to lead in many situations but may not be suitable for all older shotguns. Always consult your firearm's manual before using steel shot.
- Other Alternatives (e.g., bismuth, tungsten): These premium alternatives offer enhanced performance and often superior penetration but come at a higher price point.
4. Shell Velocity:
Higher velocity shells generally offer a tighter pattern and increased range. However, excessively high velocity can lead to increased recoil and potentially damage your gun if not used correctly. A good compromise is often found in the range of 1100-1300 fps (feet per second).
Shell Recommendations for Skeet and Trap
While "best" is subjective, depending on individual preferences and shooting style, here are some general guidelines based on common shooter types:
For Beginners:
- 12 Gauge: Offers the easiest target acquisition and manageable recoil for learning.
- Shot Size 7 1/2 or 8: Provides consistent performance across various distances.
- Moderate Velocity (1150-1250 fps): A good balance between power and recoil.
For Intermediate/Advanced Shooters:
- Gauge based on preference: 12, 20, or 28 gauge are all viable options.
- Shot size 7 1/2 or 8, or a mix: Many shooters prefer a blend of 7 1/2 and 8 for flexibility across target distances.
- Velocity based on individual needs and target distance: Experimentation to find the optimal velocity for consistency is highly encouraged. Higher velocity might be advantageous for trap shooting where long distances are more common.
For those prioritizing lower recoil:
- 20 Gauge or 28 Gauge: Significantly reduce felt recoil compared to 12 gauge.
- Lighter target loads: Some manufacturers offer reduced recoil loads within each gauge.
Final Thoughts: Testing is Key
The best way to determine the ideal shotgun shells for you is through thorough testing. Experiment with different gauges, shot sizes, and velocities at your local range to find what works best with your shooting style, your shotgun, and the specific demands of skeet and trap shooting. Consistency in your equipment choices will contribute significantly to consistent performance. Remember to consult your shotgun’s manual for load recommendations.
