Originally Posted By: ben-t
I have always though that a shotcup without petals should throw tighter patterns than those that spread open as they fly? I don't know if one could tape the petals together safely or not for such an experiment?


If you want to find out, try patterning one of Federal's loads with their new "Flite Control" wad. It does what you propose - it is a solid tube (no slits or petals) with fins that pop out at the rear after the wad exits the barrel. The fins provide air resistance to the wad, causing it to slow while the shot column continues on to the target. I have no idea how well it works in practice, as I've never tried them, but the first time I saw a diagram of one I was impressed with the theory.