I use #9 exclusively in 20ga target loads. Our five stand course has a teal, and it's measured at 43 yards to the top. #9 destroys it. Likewise incoming targets at slightly over 40 yards. Not a hint of poor performance.
The .410 half ounce of 9's is at it's best at exactly 18 yards. It works with reasonable reliability at 25 yards. Beyond that, use more gun. Not the fault of the shot size though.
Bridging in the 410 loader is a problem even with #9. You will learn to tap the drop tube on the way up, and check for a full shell before raising the handle too far above the shell mouth. I've mounted my 410 loader in a plastic tray for the times when I get overconfident and things are just clicking along....
I've even used #9 at trap back to 22 yards. It works fine.
Tried it on quail and grouse. Went back to sevens and a half.
