Do you need BIGGER cartridges?

Published on August 8, 2024
Duration: 15:53

This video explores the impact of shotgun shell pellet size on breaking various clay targets, particularly challenging ones like Euro Targets. Instructor James Bradley demonstrates how larger shot sizes (6.5mm) offer more energy and confidence for difficult, long-range, or edge-on targets, while smaller sizes (7.5mm) can be effective for closer, faster targets due to higher pellet count. Pattern testing is recommended to optimize choke and ammunition combinations for specific shooting scenarios.

Quick Summary

For challenging clay targets like 'Euro Targets' or those at longer distances (50-70 yards), larger shotgun shells such as 6.5mm are recommended. They provide more energy for a clean break and boost shooter confidence. Smaller shells like 7.5mm offer a higher pellet count, beneficial for faster clays or when slightly off-center.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 6.5mm Shells
  2. 00:50Impressive Target Breaks
  3. 01:01Choke Selection and Confidence
  4. 01:43Challenging Target Shot
  5. 02:03Speed Difference: 6.5mm vs Standard
  6. 02:08Tough Clay Targets: Euro & Prismatic
  7. 03:00More Difficult Shots
  8. 03:11One Shot Wonder vs Doubles
  9. 03:30Confidence with 6.5mm Shells
  10. 04:02Serious Targets Abroad
  11. 04:34Connecting on Long Birds
  12. 05:06Filming with Cartridge Company
  13. 05:276.5mm vs 7.5mm Shot Sizes Side-by-Side
  14. 06:06Pattern Plate Testing Explained
  15. 06:38Pattern Test at 50m
  16. 06:55Pattern Test at 70m
  17. 07:37Underpowered vs Sufficient Energy
  18. 07:51Pattern Testing with Different Loads
  19. 08:05Pattern Test Results: Full vs Quarter Choke
  20. 08:30Edge-On Targets and Pellet Holes
  21. 09:13Ground-Specific Ammunition Choice
  22. 09:28Target Density: Laporte vs Euro
  23. 09:58Difference Between Shooters
  24. 10:12Who Are 6.5mm Shells For?
  25. 10:30Testing 70m with 6.5mm Shells
  26. 11:06Confidence Boost from Patterning
  27. 11:22Visual Explanation of Target Differences
  28. 11:38Tougher Euro Targets Explained
  29. 12:03Testing 7.5mm vs 6.5mm
  30. 12:12Not a Hard Target: The Point
  31. 12:38Why Not Shoot 6.5mm All the Time?
  32. 13:10Alternative Loads: Pro Pistons/Nines
  33. 13:31First Shot with 7.5mm
  34. 13:49Confidence and Target Breaks
  35. 14:15Edge of Target Break
  36. 14:34Feeling Godlike with Parkour
  37. 14:42Testing the Biggest Target
  38. 15:026.5mm for 70 Yard Targets
  39. 15:14Smoking Birds and Confidence
  40. 15:29Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use larger shotgun shells like 6.5mm for clay shooting?

Larger shot sizes like 6.5mm are recommended for challenging clay targets such as 'Euro Targets' or 'Prismatic Clays' that are edge-on, slow, or at longer distances (50-70 yards). They provide more energy to ensure a clean break and boost shooter confidence.

What are the advantages of using smaller shotgun shells like 7.5mm?

Smaller shot sizes like 7.5mm or 8mm contain a higher pellet count per shell. This increases the probability of hitting targets, especially useful for faster clays, doubles, or when the shooter is slightly off-center, making them effective for more common shooting scenarios.

How does the type of clay target affect shotgun shell choice?

Tougher targets like 'Euro Targets' require more energy to break cleanly, favoring larger shot sizes (6.5mm). Easier targets like 'Laporte' clays break more readily and can be effectively engaged with smaller shot sizes (7.5mm) due to their higher pellet count.

Why is pattern testing important for shotgun ammunition?

Pattern testing helps you understand how your shotgun, choke tubes, and specific ammunition interact. It reveals the density and spread of your shot pattern at different distances, allowing you to select the most effective shell size and choke combination for various targets and conditions.

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