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.
First Aid in the Field It’s rare for a working gundog to get through its life without a few cuts and minor injuries. Occasionally something more serious happens. But are we prepared? In a series of articles we will look at practical first-aid for dogs in the field. Here vet
Poultry Registration Form Guidance It is a legal requirement* for all commercial premises with 50 or more poultry to register. This applies whether the 50 poultry are of a single species or a combination of the species below. Non-compliance could result in a £5000 fine. The definition “commercial” does not
Farm Subsidies The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms agreed for the 2014-2020 period introduced new farm subsidy rules and payments from 1 January 2015. Each UK country operates a different subsidy scheme. For England, the Rural Payment Agency administers the Basic Payment Scheme. Claimants of the Basic Payment must show cross compliance with environmental, food
