I'm heading to MO and KS in about 6 weeks. I'm planning on shooting Federal HW #7, as I picked up a case of them about a month ago. In KS I'll be using a Kicks choke for some longer range shots more typical of the open terrain. In MO I'd be very suprised if I get an opportunity over 40 yards, most will be 15 to 20 yards. I don't want to bring another gun but my SP10 with the Kicks and these shells will throw a baseball/softball pattern at 15 to 20 yards, if not smaller. I don't even know if these shells with the FC Wad will throw a good 15 to 20 yard pattern regardless of what choke I use, but I'm looking for some insight on what I should do for a 40 yard and less combo with the SP10 and these shells? Thought about maybe trying them with the flush modified or full rem chokes? Is there a more open turkey choke out there that might work? I think PG makes one above a .700? My last option would be to just get some other loads for the shorter range hunting, maybe some lead loads. Even then, I would need a good shorter range choke as I think the Kicks is still a bit too tight for lead at these distances. Any ideas from any of you that have a lot more experience with this setup? Thanks!
don't want to use the Kicks for this
If it were me and I was 100% there would be nothing over 35 yds I would use the same choke and winchester HV #4 or 5. If you handloads load you up a box of ballistics products 2-1/2 oz lead load with nickel plated 5s and take there head off
Just hold steady at close range , or try the chokes that came with the gun like the modified etc..
25 yards 7hw and kicks
(http://i1060.photobucket.com/albums/t456/oldgobbler3/2013-03-09_07-07-57_924.jpg)
How much flopping did he do Shannon?
The factory full choke that came with the gun is .720 and should do great out to 40. Mine did before I went to the jelly head. I just need something to shoot at. All this gun/choke/load debate is for nothing if you never get an opportunity to shoot something!!!! ???
He hit the ground like a sack of potatoes --
For me I would stick with one setup and aim carefully , aim carefully for everything ....for close shots aim at the base of the neck - people stress about close shots, yes your pattern is small , but the neck provides a easier to hit target cause , heck its 2-3 times closer
Whatever you do siht in before you go with new shells. I know my SP throws some shells straight, and some left.
I hunted MO 2 years ago, it was awesome. Had lousy weather, rain, thunderstorms. Didn't matter. Birds worked all morning, every morning. It was television quality. Have a great time!
Ducks
Precision sights may make you feel better, i use a dot and a 675 hastings no sweat.
Thanks guys. I actually picked up a box of Win HV #5 today and will have to see what it does out of the Kicks and he factory full. Still haven't shot the Fed HW #7 out of the factory chokes yet so maybe I'll have some luck there too. Not having to by yet another choke would be a good thing :) I know some guys don't have any issues with smaller patterns, I've just had poor luck with them and do much better with a little more fudge factor involved. I have thought about precision sights for a couple years but haven't made that step yet, maybe someday. Ducks - I'm pretty pumped for MO! Thanks for all the replys from everybody!