Steel shot comparison

[gcs]

First some background, I've been using standard 12 ga. 3" steel 2's, I think around 1200 fps or so, 1 1/4 oz. This has been working ok,.. for steel.
I need a new case and was looking at the 1550fps 1 1/8 oz. loads. in 3"

So...with the extra oomph, can you go to #3 shot to get the pellet count up a little and still have adequate penetration?

I realize that the velocity falls off very fast on all these rounds, thus the need for the bigger shot sizes, just looking to gain a little benefit, especially with small ducks, but still enough smack down for the big ones.

The other non toxic alternatives are out of the question, thanks.

[dawei]

First some background, I've been using standard 12 ga. 3" steel 2's, I think around 1200 fps or so, 1 1/4 oz. This has been working ok,.. for steel.
I need a new case and was looking at the 1550fps 1 1/8 oz. loads. in 3"

So...with the extra oomph, can you go to #3 shot to get the pellet count up a little and still have adequate penetration?

I realize that the velocity falls off very fast on all these rounds, thus the need for the bigger shot sizes, just looking to gain a little benefit, especially with small ducks, but still enough smack down for the big ones.

The other non toxic alternatives are out of the question, thanks.

FWIW my son & I hunt with 20GA guns; we use Kent FastSteel® #2 & #3 shot. In 20GA 3" Mags this is only 7/8oz of shot but it has a velocity of 1550fps.You need the highest possible velocity with steel. We cleanly kill Mallards, Widgeon, & Green Wing Teal at 40yds & a Mod choke. If we are consistently doing this with our small-bore guns you should do very well with your 12GA 3" Mag. Take a look here...........

http://www.kentgamebore.com/products/fasteel.asp

[Sx2]

The speed is important.

I have good luck with 12ga 3" Winchester Supremes & Estate 1 1/4 oz 2's or 3's at 1450 fps I can get to the 1500~1550 fps range with 1 1/8 oz in a 3 inch, but the 1450 fps/1 1/4 oz seems to work nicely.

I use a Invector Plus Choke in my SX2. You will want to pattern whatever you try.

Big geese, may want to try BB's