I have an 870 Express Magnum 3" 12 gauge 23" barrel that I am trying to get a good 40 yard load out of....been struggling as I have found several loads that would be sufficient for 30 yard kills. I have the standard Xtra Full Turkey choke and a Hasting .650 that I just got second hand. I also supposedly have regular full choke on the way as well. Anyone got suggestions on what chokes and loads to try....
Here are the following loads (all 3") that I have shot in both chokes :
Remington Premium 2oz #5
Winchester 1 3/4oz #5
PMC 2oz #6
Winchester 2oz- #4, 5, 6
The best load for the Remington choke was the PMC 152 pellets in a 10" circle at 30 yards
The best load for the Hastings choke was the Winchester 2oz #6's 176 in a 10" circle at 30 yards
The best 40 yard pattern was the Remington Premium with the Hastings choke 74 pellets (which I know is not sufficient for a 40 yard kill) but still better than the other loads that I tried....30-40 pellets
QuoteYou should be able to get a 40 yd gun with a Rem Ventilator, an IC .665, an SSX .643 and many others to include Sumtoy (William will recommend a constriction to start with) and any WW lead 6 load.
In my 3" 870 with 28" barrel, the .655 Ventilator choke likes #6 and #7.5 Lead loads. The Indian Creek .665 choke likes #6 and #5 Lead loads, as well as all HTL loads #5, #6, #7, and Magnum Blend. It seems like .655 to .665 is the place to start in an 870. Some folks have had good luck with .650 as well.
I have had some luck with a Hastings .650