Dialing in point of aim

[miketphoto]

I am a new shotgun shooter. When determining point of aim/point of impact can standard target loads be used or should I be using what I plan to hunt with?  Also at what distance should I be evaluating point of aim/impact?

Thanks

Mike

[Jay Longhauser]

If I am trying to "dial in" an aftermarket sight like a red dot I use low brass 7.5 or 8 lead first at about 15 or 20 yards.  Once its adjusted so its close, then use the shells and choke tube I will hunt with and see if its the same or adjust from there.  The light loads are easier on the shoulder and less expensive.  Keep in mind the same gun and choke tube can shoot two different brands of shells to different point of impact.  Make sure its on with what you hunt with.

[miketphoto]

Thanks. That was what I was thinking. I seem to be a little left with the loads I was testing today. I will set up closer with the lighter loads and go from there.  By the way I am just using the standard bead sights and shooting braced but not on a bench or vise.

[Jay Longhauser]

Mike,

since you are shooting the bead and there are no adjustments, you just need to know if it shoots where you aim it, I would use the load you want to hunt with at 15 or 20 yards 2 or 3 times then one at 40 just to see where patterns hit at those yardages

[Neill_Prater]

Mike, I think most of us would probably, based on experience, suggest using some kind of sight above and beyond a single bead. Tons of turkeys were killed with them, including probably 25 or so by myself, but with today's extremely tight choke/shell combos, being off even a few inches can mean a miss, especially at close range. The key is to maintain consistent shooting form where you are always looking right down the barrel. If you can do that, you are golden. The problem is, most everyone will eventually slip up in the heat of the moment, and, especially, in low light conditions, and lift their cheek off the stock, causing the shot to go high. You may already know all of this, but you mentioned being new to shotgun shooting, so just thought I'd throw it out there. Good luck.

[Neill_Prater]

Real quick, I'll make another suggestion. Try shooting from a normal field position, if you aren't already. If you are going to be utilizing only a vest and cushion, back up against a tree like you would if actually hunting.

[miketphoto]

Thanks for the additional tips. I am looking into get a red dot but with all the other stuff we need to buy it will likely go on my son's gun and I will have to wait. 

Neill, when I was trying things out yesterday I tried to mimic field conditions by sitting down and bracing my elbows on my knees.  I think it is better to know where the shot hits with me holding the gun as opposed to having it in a clamp etc. that I will not have in the field.

Mike