Went to range today with the TDC. Was difficult to pattern gun because of a dual between several shooters to see who could do the quickest rapid fire shots from their military assault rifes. I modified my TDC beforehand with a Truglo fiber optic bead and put fish weighs and #6 shot topped by candle wax in the stock cavity behind the recoil pad, as suggested in this forum. Worked great, better balance and no rattle. Also polished the chamber with toothpaste as recommended by turkey Hunter. My pattern test was at 10 yd and 50 yd due to available target holders.
I shot both 3" 1-3/4 oz 5 shot Remington high velocity turkey loads and 2-3/4" 1-1/2 oz 6 shot Winchester turkey loads (no logic except what was in stock). I used a HS undertaker turkey choke from Galyans. I used a Quaker Boy Hunter's first choice turkey patterning chart.
At 10 yds, I was disappointed in the Remington's pattern (2 shots). Patterns had allot of side drift with a 20" width and flyers. My center of pattern was off about 2". Still good concentration of shot at pattern's center and one dead turkey. Forgot to shoot 2-3/4 at this range.
At 50 yds, took 3 shots with Remington 3" loads. Results were disappointing but I was really streching the limit. Recoil was brutal especially with a t shirt. However recoil should be Ok for hunting. I don't miss not having the TDC in 3-1/2 chamber and I weigh 280 lbs. One shell failed to eject but when I paid attention to chamber lubrication, as suggested, I had no more problems. Polishing did help.
shot 1 - 11 hits in 12" circle, 1 hit in turkey vitals (looks like I missed left)
shot 2 - 28 hits in 12" circle, 3 hits in turkey vitals (looks like I missed left
shot 3 - 22 hits in 12" circle, 1 hit in turkey vitals (pattern spilt on both sides of turkeys neck)
At 50 yds, took 2 shots with Winchester 2-3/4 loads. Recoil more tolerable. Penetration may be an issue at his range and shot size.
shot 1 - 31 hits in 12" circle, 11 hits in turkey vitals
shot 2 - 31 hits in 12" circle, 2 hits in turkey vitals (missed left)
Conclusion is I need to make a bigger target board 3'x3' and nail down my center of pattern better at close range. I think that would have definintly improved the Remington load's performance. Also need to focus on 40 yds as the maximum range for hunting with this gun. I had no choice at the range because that was where the backer board was. On some of the shots especially when I took my jacket off, the expected recoil may have hurried my shot. The constant barrage from the assault weapons also affected my patience and possibly the results. Need to go to a friend's place where you can get more done on patterning then at the range. Am concerned on a couple of patterns that they split evenly around the turkey's neck. I would not call any of my patterns I shot today uniform. I looking at the Hevi Shot and choke for better uniformity but just to test them would be expensive. If I can't improve my consistency, I may elect for some turkey sights. Obviously I need more practice before Turkey season. Had allot of fun today safely and that whats counts. Really enjoy this forum and the advice
