Patterning a Shotgun

Just like you would when taking to the field with your rifle, it’s important to know where your gun shoots and how it patterns with the load you’ve chosen. Spend an hour or so at your local gun club before opening day comes around and you’ll be a better, more successful hunter. Here are a few tips for patterning effectively.

1. Select an area that provides a safe backdrop
2. Wear hearing and eye protection
3. Select a large patterning target of at least 30-inches
4. Pace off between 30-40 yards to simulate typical field shot distance
5. Shoot at least five patterns on separate target sheets
6. Outline a 30-inch circle around the densest portion of the pattern
7. Check for evenness and uniformity
8. Is the pattern dense enough for the game and distance you’re hunting?
9. Can you tell where your gun is shooting? (slight variation of up/down, right/left is normal)
10. You’re ready for the hunt and confident knowing how your gun and ammunition combination will perform in the field