different shot, wider patterns?

[supraneurotoxin]

this is probably a dumb question.
I've got a winchester model 12 20 gauge with a 24 inch bbl in a modified choke. when we take it skeet shooting, it's harder to break the clays then with the mossburg 500 in a 12 gauge.
I'm assuming this is because there is less shot in the smaller gauge, possibly resulting in a tighter pattern?
since I can't change the choke, is there a different size shot I could use to have a wider pattern other than the #8 i've been using? is there anything I could do to have better results?

 

[supraneurotoxin]

bump! bump, I say!

 

[Fred Fuller]

Well, maybe not just change shot size but some other factors as well. Every different load will be different.

If you want open patterns, generally you look for softer shot, no buffering, no protective sleeve around the shot and a higher velocity load. For a tight pattern you want hard shot, buffering material in the shot charge, a wad or sleeve that protects the shot charge on the way down the bore, and a lower velocity load. Old saying from years gone by- "Little powder, much lead, shoots far, kills dead."

The patterning board is your friend- try out some different loads and see what results you get.

Good shooting and Stay Safe!

lpl/nc

 

[ED21]

Choke

Par thof the problem you are facing is the choke of the 20Ga is more restricted than the Mossy 12. (Probably but check the tube in the Mossy) The density of the pattern coupled with the smaller volume of shot. If you reload, there are wads called "spreader wads" which may help. I do not know of the availability of these in loaded shells. Here is the best part. The more you shoot with the 20Ga the better you will become. If you can hit the clays with a tight pattern you have become a better shot.