How to Pattern a Shot Gun

Every shotgun produces its own pattern of fire.

Because every shotgun fires slightly differently, patterning your shotgun can improve your chances of hitting your target. Patterning your shotgun refers to finding out exactly what sort of firing pattern you can expect when you pull the trigger. Your shot load will also have an impact on the scatter pattern. So part of patterning your shotgun is determining which shot is most effective for your gun. For this process, you'll need several targets and several rounds of differing shot.

Things You'll Need

• Shotgun
• Shotgun shells
• Poster board
• Plywood
• Markers

Instructions

1. Make targets. Use poster board for the targets. Use the plywood for backing. On the poster board, draw your target rings, or whatever target shape you prefer. Set your targets at about the distance you expect you would normally be shooting, most likely from 20 to 25 yards away.

2. Shoot multiple targets using the same choke setting on your shotgun and using the same load, as variations in the pattern can still occur. However, with about 5 firings, you can determine a generalized pattern.

3. Label each target with the firing information (the choke setting and shot load you used) then mark the greatest concentration of shot with a circle around it.

4. Change your choke or the load and repeat the shooting process. Again, test this new combination of choke and load about five times to determine a generality. Repeat for every variation you wish to test, remembering to mark your targets for later evaluation.

5. Evaluate the collection of targets. Study the pattern that is produced from each of the variations you tested. By looking at the size of the holes in the targets, decide if smaller shot would be more appropriate for your intended target. If the shot barely penetrates the target or the scattering is too diffuse, use a heavier load. When looking at the patterns for the different choke settings, look at any shot damage done to the outer quadrants of the firing pattern. If there is a notable void in the same area repeatedly, it could mean the choke needs replacing.

Tips & Warnings

• In order to accurately pattern your shotgun, you must first have some experience in firing a shotgun and have reasonable aim. If your aim is poor, then you won't be able to judge how well the shot struck the target.

References

• Dove, Dogs and Shotguns: How to Pattern Your Shotgun