Plastic wad vs the old style cork or fiber is also a factor, because the plastic does a better job of protecting the shot from deformation.

Hits on a pheasant . . . I've read elsewhere that you want 3 that reach something vital for a very high probability of a kill. The vital area comprises about half the bird's body, so assuming you center the bird, while you may have only 3 hits to the body, you're almost certain to have more in other places (legs and wings, etc).

Last edited by L. Brown; 07/22/10 05:00 PM.