The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Mossberg 500 patterning very high -- why?

Al Thompson · March 17, 2000, 01:33 PM

The reason is pretty simple - the heavier load is slower and dwells in the barrel longer. The longer dwell time has the shot exiting the barrel when it is higher in it's recoil arc.

The same thing happens with rifles and pistols. Faster projectiles strike lower than heavy projos, relative to the point of aim.

I am under the impresion that trap shooters like higher patterns.. The guys in my club have their guns with the center of the pattern a foot above point of aim at 30 yards.

Giz

March 17, 2000, 01:33 PM	#2
Al Thompson Staff Alumnus Join Date: May 2, 1999 Location: South Carolina Posts: 3,611	The reason is pretty simple - the heavier load is slower and dwells in the barrel longer. The longer dwell time has the shot exiting the barrel when it is higher in it's recoil arc. The same thing happens with rifles and pistols. Faster projectiles strike lower than heavy projos, relative to the point of aim. I am under the impresion that trap shooters like higher patterns.. The guys in my club have their guns with the center of the pattern a foot above point of aim at 30 yards. Giz