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Recent analysis of shotgun patterning and game bird data suggests that long-range shotgun performance is less effective than is sometimes assumed, despite advancements (e.g., plastic shells, gas-tight wads). The focus is on achieving a 95% sure-kill rate, defined as consistent clean kills if possible.
- Sure-Kill Ranges (Full Choke, 72% Pattern at 40 Yards):
- Geese: 10-gauge Magnum, 2 oz No. 2 shot – 51 yards.
- Mallards: 2 oz No. 4 shot – 48 yards; No. 6 shot – 40 yards (2 oz), 40 yards (1½ oz), 33 yards (1¼ oz).
- Teal: No. 6 shot – 48 yards (2 oz), 40 yards (1½ oz).
- Beyond these ranges, kills become unreliable within a 30-inch pattern. Exceptional shooters centering the densest pattern (15–20-inch core) may gain ~5 yards.
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Key Limitations:
- Pellet Energy: In full-choke guns, energy loss limits range before pattern density falters. At longer distances, >4–5 pellets are needed for sufficient kill energy.
- Shot Size: No. 4–5 shot optimizes mallards; No. 6 suits teal, especially with 1½–2 oz loads. Lighter 1¼ oz loads under perform for teal.
- Pattern Density: Peaks at the center (e.g., 0.7 pellets/sq. in. in 10-inch circle vs. 0.3 in outer ring for 1¼ oz No. 6 at 40 yards).
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Waterfowl Behavior:
- Puddlers (e.g., Mallards): Slow, high fliers; circle cautiously, descend vertically. Blinds in cover may push them higher (e.g., 50 yards above trees).
- Divers (e.g., Canvasbacks): Fast (70+ mph), low fliers; need open decoy spreads for jet-like landings.
- Adaptation: Hunting pressure elevates flight paths; scouting consistent routes boosts success.
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Shooting Strategy:
- Gear: Full-choke barrels for 40+ yard shots; double-barrels (full + modified) with selective triggers handle varied targets.
- Technique: Swing with bird speed, lead ahead, follow through. Wind lowers flight altitude, aiding range estimation.
- Challenges: Range and speed judgment varies with light, background, and species traits.
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