Help on expectations for more open patterns

[Harry Collins]

Charlie, I have shot the Model 12 20 gauge with RST 2 1/2" shells and took dove out of the ozone. I just never had much luck shooting spreader loads.
Harry

[Double Lab]

I just have to chime in here. First off David, do you reload?
I've never relied on or liked the way spreader loads pattern, but that's just me. Keep in mind that patterns are measured in inches and misses are measured in feet.
If you do reload send me a PM and I will give you a recipe for a homemade "spreader' load if you think that's what you need.
Any spreader load will be more effective with shot smaller than #7, ie. 8.5 or 9.
I like tighter chokes, so depending on what you quarry/target is will have a bearing on your load/choke combo.

The bottom line David is to pattern your gun with standard vs. spreader loads on paper not only for pattern but more importantly for POI.

[davidboyles]

Thanks to all I'm going to get some RST spreader loads next week and go do some pattern testing. Does 30 yd sound right distance ?