Performance Data
| Date | Range | Choke (Nominal) | 30" Circle Impacts (Total) | Performance (Nominal) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19/08/2017 | 30 Yards | 0.015" (Modified) | 119 (171) | 70% (Improved Cylinder) |
| 19/08/2017 | 30 Yards | 0.015" (Modified) | 125 (171) | 73% (Improved Cylinder) |
| 19/08/2017 | 30 Yards | 0.015" (Modified) | 124 (171) | 73% (Improved Cylinder) |
| 19/08/2017 | 30 Yards | 0.020" (Improved Modified) | 135 (171) | 79% (Modified) |
| 19/08/2017 | 30 Yards | 0.020" (Improved Modified) | 134 (171) | 78% (Modified) |
| 19/08/2017 | 40 Yards | 0.020" (Improved Modified) | 81 (171) | 47% (Improved Cylinder) |
| 19/08/2017 | 40 Yards | 0.020" (Improved Modified) | 84 (171) | 49% (Improved Cylinder) |
Performance Analysis
Looking at the data, it is extremely difficult not to conclude that the “Extralong” cartridge, loaded with #6 shot, is an extremely consistent cartridge. Of course, with the number of data points available, the fact that pellet counts for each of the distance-range combinations are all within 3% of each other could still be entirely coincidental, but at the time of writing, we prefer to be positive, and therefore, impressed, with the cartridge.
This consistency is all the more surprising then, when one considers that the cartridge has a rolled turnover, generally associated with poorer down-range performance and furthermore, that it appears to be loaded to such a high pressure that the front part of the case often follows the shot column out of the barrel after firing. The image to the right illustrates some of the damage inflicted.
It is difficult not to compare this cartridge with the others available under the “Extralong” label and comparison appears favourable to this version of the cartridge. Performance at 30 yards ranges from sufficient to moderate with the ½ and ¾ chokes of the test gun, which is no worse than either the subsonic version of this cartridge or the supersonic version loaded with #7. Patterns are less dense than the latter, as might be expected, but exceed the former with the tighter choke. Anecdotally, higher velocities favour tighter chokings and the data agrees with this, even if it is a stretch to argue that it supports that conclusion.
As is the case with its stablemates, 40-yard performance of the #6 “Extralong” cartridge is insufficient for the humane taking of game, although superior to the #7 version of the brand. The larger shot size is no doubt beneficial in this regard but higher velocity again appears to be damaging in comparison to the subsonic version. Maximum range is probably in the range of 32 yards with the 0.020″ choke.
All of this amounts to respectable but not outstanding performance. If one is satisfied with 30-yard performance then all three of the “Extralong” cartridges thus far tested, will be effective in the field. Precisely which of them offers optimum performance is extremely difficult to determine and will probably only be decided via extensive field testing or blind prejudice for larger shot size or denser pattern.
Example Patterns
