835 Longbeard XR #6

[GT623]

This is my first time patterning a shotgun. I've been reading as many patterning threads as I could in the last couple of weeks and doing lots of research.

Mossberg 835 24" barrel
Jellyhead .690
3 1/2" win Longbeard #6
40 yards. 60*
First was 181, second 158. Then I shot about 10 more times with different loads and finished up with another XR and it shot 126. Is the drop off due to the buildup in the barrel from all the shots?  Is it worth trying an SSX choke? I can get one locally pretty cheap.

[chatterbox]

Fantastic patterns!
I would say the drop off is due to the barrel being dirty, and if it were me, I would keep the JH, limit my shots to 40 yards and under, and hunt!
Well done!

[drum817]

My best "Guess" is that if you went down to the .675 range on your choke your pattern would be even better,  But that will kill birds all day. 

[drum817]

....also keep that barrel clean in between shots.  Invest in a "bore snake".   

[SCDieselDawg]

....also keep that barrel clean in between shots.  Invest in a "bore snake".   

X2

Put a little elbow grease into cleaning your barrel. Mossbergs are notorious for leaving the factory dirty and in need of a good scrubbing. Also shoot your setup at 20yds those LongBeards stay together a little longer than most shells.

Your patterns are more than enough to kill a turkey out to 40 yds. If you want a tighter pattern try a SSX or Indian Creek choke!

[GT623]

Here is a 20 yard shot.
I cleaned it pretty good with a 12 gauge brush. I'm guessing a 10 gauge would clean a lot better with the over bored barrel? 

[SCDieselDawg]

I wouldn't change that setup! You're gonna hammer some turkeys with what you've got!!

[GT623]

Just ordered 2 more boxes of the longbeards. May try the SSX just to see what it will do.

[surehuntsalot]

shouldn't have no problems with these patterns

[Xcal1ber]

That is a good hunting set up. Tight enough at 40 and not to tight at 20. I will also say that you do use a 10 gauge brush in the 835

[TrackeySauresRex]

Not bad for a first timer    Keep postin em up. Good set up right there, 

[Doug Lewis]

Get your hands on an SSX choke and throw some #7 Hevi 13's through that gun and it may make your decision a little easier on which shell/choke combo to go with.

[TBab]

I have the exact setup your shooting right now except i patterned the #5's in the long beards and the pattern blew my mind. Lookin good brother. That pattern will make pink mist fly

[Twowithone]

Good pattern at 40 yds for sure.

[GT623]

Thanks guys. I just mounted a red dot, so now I have to get it sighted in and I'll be ready to roll.