I did an unscientific test of the 2.5 inch, winchester 3-pellet 000 buck load, vs. the newer Federal 2.5 inch, 4-pellet 000 buck. The federal seems to be marketed towards the Taurus Judge handgun, but they seem to work just as well in shotguns.
Gun used was an H&R single shot with a 19 inch cylinder bore.
Distance was approx. 15 yards.
The Federal put all 4 pellets in a 1.5 inch group, with 3 of the 4 pellets making one ragged 3/4 inch hole.
The Winchester made a 4.5 inch group.
I am very impresssed with the Federal load. The pellets are plated, which might explain the tighter patterns.
Gun used was an H&R single shot with a 19 inch cylinder bore.
Distance was approx. 15 yards.
The Federal put all 4 pellets in a 1.5 inch group, with 3 of the 4 pellets making one ragged 3/4 inch hole.
The Winchester made a 4.5 inch group.
I am very impresssed with the Federal load. The pellets are plated, which might explain the tighter patterns.