Trying to tighten up my pattern at 40 yards with my reloads
I've been shooting a Beretta A400 Xcel with a Modified choke and my reloads using once-fired STS hulls, Claybuster WAA12 wads, and 1 1/8 oz of #7.5 lead. Patterns are fine at 30 yards but seem to open up too much at 40, especially on station 8 crossing targets. I'm using Alliant Extra-Lite powder. Should I switch to a tighter choke or adjust my load?
1 Answer
Good question - that 40-yard crossing shot is a real test. Your Modified choke should be fine for 40 yards with #7.5. I'd look at your load first. Extra-Lite is pretty fast - you might be getting some pellet deformation that's opening your pattern. Try switching to a slower powder like Green Dot or even International if you have it, and make sure you're using hard shot. Also, check your crimp - a weak crimp can cause inconsistent velocities. What's your current velocity reading on that load?
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