Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad

Published on October 27, 2019
Duration: 34:03

This video provides an in-depth review and testing of the Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad shotgun cartridges, focusing on their environmental aspects and performance. The review includes water submersion tests to assess the biodegradability of the wad and its impact on cartridge integrity, as well as pattern testing at various ranges. The presenters, Mick Horton (Eley representative) and the TGS Outdoors host, discuss the cartridge's construction, its sensitivity to moisture, and compare its performance and recoil against traditional plastic-wad cartridges and Gamebore Fiber Shot. The consensus is that the Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad is a viable, environmentally conscious option for shotgun users, particularly in areas where lead shot is restricted.

Quick Summary

The Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad cartridges are designed for environmental consciousness, featuring a rust-away brass head and a biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol wad that dissolves in water. Despite prolonged water exposure, they maintain excellent pattern performance and are considered a viable, eco-friendly option for wildfowling and shooting over water.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Eley Pro Eco Wads
  2. 00:56Cartridge Construction and Materials
  3. 01:12Wad Biodegradability Test
  4. 02:21Heat-Sealed Crimp Feature
  5. 02:46Manufacturing Location and Moisture Sensitivity
  6. 03:20Cost and Environmental Value
  7. 04:25Cut-Open 32g #5 Shot Cartridge
  8. 05:05Wet vs. Dry Cartridge Comparison
  9. 07:05Comparison with Standard Plastic Wad
  10. 08:02Historical Context: Paper Cases
  11. 11:24Water Ingress Test Results
  12. 13:40Half-Hour Water Test Update
  13. 14:11Pattern Testing at 35 Yards
  14. 15:15Testing 30g #5 Shot
  15. 17:46Recoil Comparison with SB2 Shotgun
  16. 18:49Pattern Analysis: #5 Shot
  17. 21:32Long Range Testing at 55 Yards
  18. 22:0155 Yard Pattern Test: Eley vs. Gamebore
  19. 27:30Post-Shot Barrel Inspection
  20. 28:24Wad Observation After Firing
  21. 29:53Cleaning Ease Assessment
  22. 31:01Final Verdict and Recommendations
  23. 33:34Conclusion: Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad Winner

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad environmentally friendly?

The Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad is environmentally friendly due to its brass head designed to rust away and its biodegradable polyvinyl alcohol wad, which dissolves in water. This significantly reduces plastic waste compared to traditional cartridges.

How does the Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad perform after being exposed to water?

Despite prolonged submersion (over an hour) and exposure to rain, the Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad cartridges maintained excellent pattern performance at 35 yards. While recoil might be slightly increased, the cartridges remain effective and safe to shoot.

What is the recoil like with Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad cartridges?

The recoil is described as noticeable but not excessive, comparable to other 32-gram loads. While slightly more pronounced than some lighter cartridges, it's manageable for extended shooting sessions and not considered brutal.

Are Eley VIP Steel Pro Eco Wad cartridges more expensive than standard steel cartridges?

Yes, they are slightly more expensive. This is attributed to the significant research and development invested in creating an environmentally friendly, high-performance cartridge, as well as the cost of biodegradable materials.

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