weather

[rock54]

how big a deal is the weather, figure 50 degrees as base and 5-10 degrees either side for an all around good base for patterning.....is my question correct, tryn to get to the range to pattern wifes new gun...

with me bow hunting and us both workn hard to hook up to get there and the weather is cooln off here in ohio,,, thanks russ

[R AJ]

My take on patterning for hunting purposes is to shoot when conditions most fit your field conditions when hunting.
If 50* +/- 5-10 * is about the temperature when you are hunting then you need to see how the patterns look. Temperature is one factor but so is elevation, humidity, wind speed,etc.
To get the best patterning weather for target shooting it is usually warmer than 50*.
Yes, I think you are on the right track, especially including the wife in your outdoor experience.

[allaboutshooting]

how big a deal is the weather, figure 50 degrees as base and 5-10 degrees either side for an all around good base for patterning.....is my question correct, tryn to get to the range to pattern wifes new gun...

with me bow hunting and us both workn hard to hook up to get there and the weather is cooln off here in ohio,,, thanks russ

Hey Russ,

It is best, as has been said by RAJ, to pattern your guns in the conditions in which you hunt. When you pattern in 40-50 degree temperatures, you will likely not see the kinds of numbers that you sometimes see posted when folks shoot in higher temperatures. I'd look for even patterns with no large holes (1.5" for me) and not be too concerned about the numbers.

Thanks,
Clark

P.S. I also compliment you on hunting with your wife.