Hello. I am new to trap and have been to the range a few times. I am shooting Challenger 2 3/4 #9 shells with a 12-gauge Stevens 555. I would like some recommendations on loads (6/8, 7/8, 1 or 1 1/8oz for 7.5 or 8) that produce less recoil yet are effective on the range. I have looked at the Challenger and Winchester loads but I am unsure which would feel better on the shoulder so I can stay out longer. Appreciate your comments. Thank you.
Low recoil effective loads for trap with O/U
- Thread starter LAV
- Start date
Beretta687EELL
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- SW Ontario
Generally speaking, the more lead (weight) you try to push out the end of the barrel and the faster that you wish to do that = more recoil. So, less lead and less velocity = reduced recoil.
However, IMHO, your problem is actually poor gun fit.
However, IMHO, your problem is actually poor gun fit.
THIS!
If possible a semi-auto will also have less recoil than a pump or o/u etc. Right now, run what ya brung, lol, but if you can find a buddy with a semi try it to see if it helps. If it does for you you may want to look into purchasing one.
Maritime Storm
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- Riverview, NB
LAV; I shoot 1oz 1200FPS Challenger for everything except Handicap Trap. Skeet #9, Trap#8. Handicap I step up to 1 1/8Oz of #7 1/2 at the same speed.
Stevens 555 is a very light 12 gauge, thus needing light loads for trap, or skeet where you shoot a lot, and a really good recoil pad. One ounce loads with modest velocity do make an appreciable difference in recoil.
Comparing this light gun's recoil to a Citori target gun is not a reasonable comparison.
You won't notice the recoil of regular velocity upland hunting loads when shooting at game, but this is not the gun for heavy recoiling loads, either in the field or on the trap range.
Comparing this light gun's recoil to a Citori target gun is not a reasonable comparison.
You won't notice the recoil of regular velocity upland hunting loads when shooting at game, but this is not the gun for heavy recoiling loads, either in the field or on the trap range.
- Location
- Ft. Mac. Alberta
Kent International. 24 gram loads are 8,000PSI and very easy on the shoulder .
No issues cleaning a round with them and recoil was easy enough on the vintage guns and vintage shoulders!
Cat
No issues cleaning a round with them and recoil was easy enough on the vintage guns and vintage shoulders!
Cat
Very well said. I'll just add one thing....."the more lead (weight) you try to push out the end of the barrel and the faster that you wish to do that = more recoil for any given shotgun weight.
Add weight to your gun or shoot a heavier gun = reduced recoil.
Why would you suggest getting rid of a light gun if it was eminently suitable for carrying for upland hunting ? You might suggest getting a more suitable target shotgun if target games are going to be a big feature in the OP's life. Some people shoot their upland gun in practice all summer to be ready for the few days of hunting we are allowed.
24 and 28 gram target loads kill clay pigeons very effectively and are less punishing on the shoulder when using a light gun for casual target shooting.
I love light guns, but also like to buy or load appropriate cartridges to avoid pounding my shoulder.
24 and 28 gram target loads kill clay pigeons very effectively and are less punishing on the shoulder when using a light gun for casual target shooting.
I love light guns, but also like to buy or load appropriate cartridges to avoid pounding my shoulder.
I purchased some 7.5 and 8 shells that were rated at 1145 and 1200 fps respectively. I also changed the way I mounted the gun and shooting feels more comfortable. I went to the range on Saturday and Sunday and put 50 through the barrel each day. I was hitting on average 14/25 (still learning) which is a slight improvement over the previous weekend. I had been using the top barrel (modified choke) for trap and switched to the under (IC choke). I noticed that I had to aim a tad lower to get clean kill. All in all, I am really enjoying it. Thanks for all the suggestions.
