Calibrating Metal Targets for Shotgun

[Neil Beverley]

Having noted the interest about calibrating metal targets for handgun matches I thought it may be a good idea to point out in a separate thread that the procedures for shotgun are different.

It should be noted that we only recognize Major PF for SG so metal targets do not need to be included and calibrated to recognize power.

Metal targets are the main target type for shotgun matches, and birdshot is the main ammunition type although we also shoot buck and slug. We must be satisfied that targets will fall when properly hit. We have to consider pattern spread.

For those of you who put on or shoot shotgun matches or stages I would recommend that you read the calibration procedures in the 2004 rule book.

The key points are:

• Test Gun: Maximum barrel length - 66 cms (26 inches).
  
• True cylinder or open choked barrel.
  
• Test Cartridge (birdshot): Birdshot - no. 7 or 7 ½ or local equivalent.
  
• Power factor - 520 or less. (e.g. A cartridge of 28gr (1 ounce) shot weight at 1180 fps = 516PF)
  
• All testing is to be conducted from the closest possible point from where a competitor could shoot at the target and not from where they actually shot
  

Please note that the test cartridge PF is stipulated at below the minimum necessary for score. We are testing that the targets will fall and not testing power.

Also note that we test from the closest possible point using an open choked barrel. Competitors can choose any choke they like and can shoot any cartridge above the minimum that they choose. Understanding the choking and pattern spread is a fundamental part of the sport. Competitors can choose to opt for tighter chokes and heavier cartridges and then shoot further back or at an angle. It's freestyle. The testing is done from the closest point to prove the target can be successfully shot during the C of F after that it's up to the competitor.

[mactiger]

Thanks for the information, Neil. I think this calibration practice represents a more accurate and consistent means of calibrating poppers for shotgun.

It's also important to note that rifle calibration differs from past practices as well. Rifle calibration can be found in the Rifle rule book. Note that now poppers are calibrated using a rifle, not a pistol, and fired at from the farthest possible shooting location.

Troy