Trap shooting demands precision and consistency. Choosing the right 12-gauge shells significantly impacts your performance. This in-depth guide explores the best 12-gauge shells for trap shooting, considering factors like shot size, payload, velocity, and hull type. We’ll delve into what makes a shell ideal for this challenging sport and help you select the ammunition best suited to your skill level and shooting style.
Understanding the Needs of Trap Shooting Ammunition
Trap targets present a unique challenge. They're launched at a predictable trajectory but require a quick, accurate shot to break them cleanly. Your ammo needs to deliver:
- Consistent Patterns: A tight, even pattern is crucial for consistent target breakage. Inconsistent patterns lead to missed shots and frustration.
- High Velocity: Faster shells provide a flatter trajectory, reducing the need for significant lead at longer ranges.
- Appropriate Shot Size: The shot size needs to balance target breakage with recoil management. Too small, and you risk not breaking the target; too large, and recoil can disrupt your aim.
- Reliable Ignition: A shell that fails to fire is a lost shot, potentially costing you points in a competition.
Top 12 Gauge Shells for Trap Shooting: A Detailed Look
The best shell is subjective and depends on individual preferences, but several consistently rank highly among trap shooters:
1. Winchester AA Super Target
The Winchester AA Super Target is a classic choice known for its reliability and consistent performance. It features a durable, reliable hull, a powerful payload, and a consistently tight pattern, making it a favorite amongst many trap shooters.
- Key Features: Consistent patterns, high velocity, reliable ignition.
- Shot Size Recommendations: #7 1/2 or #8 are common choices for trap.
- Pros: Reliable, consistent, widely available.
- Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than some competitors.
2. Remington Premier Target Loads
Remington's Premier Target Loads offer another reliable option. They are well-regarded for their consistent patterns and predictable performance, making them a good choice for both casual and competitive shooters.
- Key Features: Consistent patterns, good velocity, solid performance.
- Shot Size Recommendations: #7 1/2 or #8.
- Pros: Reliable, good value for the price.
- Cons: Some users report occasional inconsistencies in pattern.
3. Federal Top Gun
Federal Top Gun shells are a popular budget-friendly option that still delivers good performance. While not as premium as some others on this list, they offer a balance of price and performance making them suitable for practice and casual shooting.
- Key Features: Affordable price, decent velocity, generally consistent.
- Shot Size Recommendations: #7 1/2 or #8.
- Pros: Cost-effective, reliable for the price.
- Cons: Pattern consistency may be slightly less than premium brands.
4. Rio Royal Target
Rio Royal Target shells represent a good value option for trap shooters seeking consistent performance at a competitive price point. They offer good velocity and pattern consistency for their price bracket.
- Key Features: Good value, consistent performance for its price range.
- Shot Size Recommendations: #7 1/2 or #8.
- Pros: Affordable, decent pattern consistency.
- Cons: Might not be as consistent as premium brands, especially at longer ranges.
5. B&P Sporting Clays
While often used in sporting clays, B&P Sporting Clays shells can also excel in trap shooting. They are known for their clean burn and consistent pattern.
- Key Features: Clean burning, consistent patterns.
- Shot Size Recommendations: #7 1/2 or #8 are popular choices.
- Pros: Clean burning, reliable.
- Cons: Might be harder to find in some areas.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shells
Beyond brand, several factors influence shell performance for trap:
Shot Size:
- #7 1/2: A popular choice, offering a good balance between pattern density and recoil.
- #8: Slightly smaller, with a wider pattern, ideal for compensating for slight aim errors.
- Larger shot sizes (e.g., #6): Generally used for hunting, not ideal for trap due to increased recoil.
Payload:
A heavier payload generally delivers a tighter pattern but also increases recoil. Finding the right balance is crucial.
Velocity:
Higher velocity leads to a flatter trajectory, reducing the need for lead adjustment. However, higher velocity usually means increased recoil.
Hull Type:
Different hull types (e.g., plastic, fiber) affect how well the shell feeds through your shotgun. Consider compatibility with your specific firearm.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Shell
The "best" 12-gauge shell for trap shooting is highly individual. The best approach is to experiment with different brands and shot sizes to find what best suits your shooting style, shotgun, and budget. Consider starting with one of the top-rated shells mentioned above and then fine-tuning your choice based on your experience on the range. Remember, consistent practice and proper technique are just as important as choosing the right ammunition.