Traditionally, different pellet sizes in lead shot have been favoured for different types of shooting, such as:
Geese – BB/1/3
Grouse – 6/7
Rabbit – 5/6
Teal – 6/7
Pheasant – 5/6/7
Woodcock – 7
Pigeon – 6/7
Recent research, however, may result in recommended shot sizes changing, generally towards larger pellets than were used in the past. Furthermore, each non-lead type has different ballistic characteristics. This means that pellet sizes may need to change for these materials to achieve pattern density and striking energy levels sufficient to ensure consistently clean kills. In particular, where the material is less dense than lead, and so has less kinetic energy, it is necessary to use a larger size shot – for example, if steel then at least two sizes larger (i.e. for lead no.6 use steel no.4 or larger); if bismuth then at least one size larger (no.3 or larger in place of lead no.4).
While the traditional game load has long been 30g or 32g (11/16 oz and 11/8 oz) of no.6 shot nowadays game shooters are using more no.5 or larger shot.
In Bismuth increase the shot size by 1 from the traditional lead sizes quoted above.
Muzzle Loading This branch of the target-shooting sports has been growing in popularity over the past few years. It involves using either original old guns, or replicas of modern manufacture. The sport is particularly attractive to those who have an interest in history – in our heritage. A muzzle-loading gun
Visiting the UK to shoot Visitor’s firearm and shotgun permit procedure To visit Great Britain with a firearm you will need to apply for a visitor’s firearm or shotgun permit at least six weeks in advance. Anyone attempting to enter Great Britain without a visitor’s firearm or shotgun permit will
Rice breast disease in ducks – how you can help What is sarcocystosis? Sarcocystosis, or ‘rice breast’ disease of ducks, is caused by the parasite Sarcocystis spp and seems to be on the rise in the UK. The parasite has a relatively complex life cycle using birds as an intermediate host and
