I think a test desinged to maximize single pellet hits is in order. A large sheet of plastic in the major landing zone should aid recovery of targets and fragments. As noted in a previous thread, we need field data that indicates the % of single pellet hits that result in a scorable target.
Why?
There are cross-over points for choke and for pellet energy (size and velocity). That is to say, there are distances at which the next up or down choke size will yield more broken targets. Likewise, there are distances at which higher (more energy) velocity or lower (less recoil fatigue) velocity and/or a next up or down pellet size will yield more broken targets. These points are not well documented nor are they well understood. It is commonly accepted that itis #9 and open choke for skeet, #8 and Modish for 16 yd trap, and #7 1/2 and full for way back handicap. Now, try to get a consensus for sporting clays/5-stand/FITASIC/etc. Hunting? Good luck!!
There was a similar argument in the 1870's. Some asked "Why?" use/allow choke bore guns - didn't need 'em!!
For me, very simply, because I want to know.
