The 20 gauge TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) shotgun shell has rapidly gained popularity among hunters and shooters seeking superior performance. Its smaller gauge offers reduced recoil compared to 12 gauge, while the tungsten shot delivers exceptional density and energy, resulting in flatter trajectories and increased stopping power at extended ranges. Understanding the various patterns offered by 20 gauge TSS loads is crucial for selecting the right ammunition for your specific hunting needs.
Understanding TSS Shot and its Advantages
Before delving into specific patterns, let's quickly revisit why TSS is so effective. Tungsten's exceptionally high density (approximately 1.5 times that of lead) allows for smaller shot sizes to achieve the same or better energy transfer than larger lead shot. This translates to:
- Longer Effective Range: TSS retains energy over longer distances, leading to effective shots at ranges where traditional lead shot would fall short.
- Increased Penetration: The dense shot penetrates targets more effectively, resulting in cleaner kills and reduced wounding.
- Flatter Trajectories: The higher density means less trajectory drop, improving accuracy at distance.
- Reduced Recoil: While the advantage is less pronounced in a 20 gauge compared to a 12 gauge, the smaller shot size still contributes to a softer recoil.
Popular 20 Gauge TSS Patterns and Their Uses
The pattern of a 20 gauge TSS load refers to the shot size and the number of pellets in a given shell. Different patterns are optimized for different hunting scenarios and target sizes. While specific offerings vary by manufacturer, here are some common pattern characteristics and their typical applications:
Smaller Shot Sizes (e.g., #7.5, #8, #9 TSS):
- Characteristics: These patterns offer a higher pellet count, leading to denser patterns at closer ranges. They are also less prone to wind drift.
- Applications: Ideal for smaller birds like doves, quail, and woodcock, where a dense pattern is crucial for clean kills at shorter to moderate ranges.
Larger Shot Sizes (e.g., #6, #5 TSS):
- Characteristics: Fewer pellets per shell, resulting in a less dense pattern but with greater individual pellet energy.
- Applications: Best suited for larger game birds like geese, ducks (especially at longer ranges), and even small predators at closer ranges. The increased penetration offered by larger shot sizes is advantageous for these larger targets.
Extended-Range Loads:
- Characteristics: These loads are often engineered for maximizing effective range. They often utilize slightly larger shot sizes or specialized wad designs to achieve superior pattern consistency at extended distances.
- Applications: These are the go-to options for hunting waterfowl at the limits of the 20 gauge's effective range or for hunting larger birds at longer distances.
Factors Affecting 20 Gauge TSS Patterns
Several factors influence the performance of a 20 gauge TSS pattern, including:
- Choke Tube: The choke tube significantly impacts pattern density. A tighter choke (like a Modified or Full) produces a denser pattern at longer ranges, but can lead to less overall coverage. Conversely, a more open choke (like an Improved Cylinder) yields a wider but less dense pattern.
- Ammunition Brand and Design: Different manufacturers utilize varying shot sizes, wad designs, and powder loads, influencing pattern performance. Thorough research and field testing are crucial to find the best ammunition for your specific firearm and hunting situation.
- Shooting Technique: Proper shooting technique, including stance, aiming, and follow-through, greatly affects pattern consistency. Regular practice is vital for maximizing accuracy and achieving consistent results.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right 20 Gauge TSS Pattern
Selecting the appropriate 20 gauge TSS pattern requires careful consideration of your intended target, hunting distance, and preferred shooting style. Understanding the characteristics of different shot sizes and their applications allows you to make an informed decision. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and consult your firearm’s manual for appropriate choke tube usage. Experimentation and field testing will ultimately lead to finding the perfect ammunition for your needs.
