Why is it important to pattern your Shotgun? And how it will help conservation efforts.

In the world of hunting and shooting sports, the shotgun is one of the most popular and versatile firearms. It is used for everything from hunting game birds and waterfowl to shooting clays and even big game. However, many shotgun owners do not understand the importance of patterning their shotgun, and how it can directly impact conservation efforts. Patterning a shotgun involves shooting at a target to determine how the shot is distributed. The pattern of the shot is affected by a number of factors, including the type of shotgun, the type of ammunition, and the choke used. By patterning a shotgun, a shooter can determine how their shotgun performs with different types of ammunition and chokes and can make adjustments to improve their a...  Read More

Choke Tubes: Extended or Flush?

Extended and flush choke tubes offer different benefits for shotguns. Here are some advantages of each type: Extended Choke Tubes: Improved Shot Pattern: Extended choke tubes are typically longer than flush choke tubes, which helps to extend the length of the barrel and control the shot pattern more effectively. The extended design allows for a longer, smoother taper, which can result in more consistent patterns, resulting in improved accuracy and higher pellet density on the target. Easier Choke Identification: Extended choke tubes often have visible markings or color-coding that indicate the choke constriction. This makes it easier to identify the desired choke quickly, especially in low-light conditions or when changing chokes in ...  Read More

Picking a shotgun: Inertia or Gas operated?

Both inertia-driven and gas-operated shotguns are popular and reliable mechanisms, each with its own advantages and considerations. Here's a breakdown of both types: Inertia-Driven Shotguns: Mechanism: Inertia-driven shotguns use the energy produced by the recoil of a fired shotshell to cycle the action. The force of the recoil drives the bolt rearward, ejecting the spent shell and chambering a new one. Reliability: Inertia-driven shotguns are known for their reliability, as they have fewer moving parts compared to gas-operated shotguns. The simplicity of the design often results in reduced maintenance and a higher tolerance for adverse conditions, such as dirt, dust, and fouling. Recoil: Inertia-driven shotguns typically have a sli...  Read More

Is shooting tungsten and bismuth worth it?

Shooting bismuth and tungsten shotgun shells can offer certain advantages in specific shooting scenarios, but whether they are worth the money depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider: Density and Performance: Bismuth and tungsten shotgun shells are often used as alternatives to lead shot, as they have similar or higher densities. This density allows for increased pellet energy, better penetration, and improved downrange performance compared to lighter alternatives like steel shot. If you frequently shoot at longer distances or hunt larger game, these shells can offer improved effectiveness. Non-Toxicity: One of the primary reasons for using bismuth or tungsten shotgun shells is their non-toxi...  Read More

E-Scouting and ground verification for waterfowl

Studying satellite images can be a useful tool for identifying potential water holes when scouting for waterfowl. Here are some steps to help you effectively study satellite images: Select a Reliable Satellite Imagery Source: Choose a reliable satellite imagery provider or platform that offers high-resolution and up-to-date images. Google Earth, Bing Maps, and specialized platforms like Sentinel Hub are popular options. Choose the Right Time of Year: Focus on satellite images taken during the time of year you plan to scout for waterfowl. Look for images captured during or near the peak waterfowl migration period or when water scarcity is common. Identify Potential Water Features: Carefully examine the satellite images for visible water f...  Read More

How to pattern a shotgun.

Patterning your shotgun helps determine the spread and effectiveness of your shot. Make sure to follow safety precautions and choose an appropriate shooting range for these activities. Gather Materials: Shotgun (no brainer) Target paper or cardboard (we personally prefer our targets.) range finder Permanent marker Shotgun shells of your preferred load and shot size Set Up the Shooting Range: Find a suitable shooting range with enough distance for each designated pattern distance (20 yards, 30 yards, and 40 yards). Ensure a safe shooting environment and adhere to local shooting regulations. Prepare the Target: Attach a large sheet of target paper or cardboard to a suitable backing. Measure and mark the center of the t...  Read More

Patterning: Does it save you money?

Patterning a shotgun can potentially save you money by helping you achieve better shot placement, optimizing your ammunition usage, and reducing the number of missed or wounded targets. Here's how: Improved Shot Placement: Patterning a shotgun allows you to determine the spread and density of shot pellets at various distances. By understanding the pattern and knowing where the majority of pellets will hit, you can make more accurate shots. This leads to cleaner kills, reducing the chances of wounded birds escaping, which saves ammunition and minimizes the need for additional follow-up shots. Optimal Ammunition Selection: Through shotgun patterning, you can test different ammunition types, loads, and choke combinations to find the mos...  Read More

Patterning Distance for Waterfowl and Turkeys.

When patterning a shotgun for waterfowl or turkeys, the typical range at which you pattern your shotgun can vary based on personal preference and specific hunting situations. However, here are some general guidelines: Waterfowl: Short-Range Patterning: Patterning your shotgun at 20-25 yards is commonly done to assess the density and evenness of the shot pattern within a typical effective shooting range for waterfowl hunting. Mid-Range Patterning: Some hunters also choose to pattern their shotguns at 30-35 yards to evaluate pattern performance at longer distances, especially when targeting larger waterfowl species or hunting in open areas. Long-Range Patterning: Patterning at 40-45 yards can provide insights into pattern spread ...  Read More