To set up a controlled test which would strive to duplicate a certain Super X load of decades ago the following would be needed:
1. Original Lubaloy shot, assuming that it would be of the same material properties as when loaded into rounds those decades ago.
2. Wads that would replicate the cushioning effect, hardness, and friction against the barrel wall. The last probably isn’t significant.
3. Paper cases that would replicate the pressure absorbsion of the original cases. This would contribute slightly to the pressure curve.
4. Progressive powder with burning rate of that of the original loads.
5. Muzzle velocity equal to that of the original loads.
As Eightbore surmised, components and loads of the years since the Super Fox and Super X shells were introduced have been greatly improved. It may be hard to replicate the exact Super X load of certain years in its continued development. It would however not be hard to surpass the incredible for the time performance of the Super Fox – Super X combination!
Toward the above statements, I regularly drop doubles (with 1 shot if they are close enough together) of Canada Geese touching down into decoys over my pond at measured distances of 60-70 yards using a 2 & 7/8” short 10 gauge. Oh, I share the fun with many desreving Parker's and Elsie's in my herd. The load I use is 1 & 3/8 oz Nice Shot, SP-10 wad with 16 gauge fiber filler wad, and in early season, 4756 powder. I’ve done the same with a Super Fox and a 12 gauge Parker Damascus 34” using and factory Kent TM #1 and #3 shot. The increased hardness of the Nice Shot and Kent TM contribute to the effectiveness of these loads. Add to that the plastic "cushion" for the shot and whatever changes there are in the power buring rate. Together, those factors provide long range performance!
Something interesting would be to use modern loads in the old guns and determine the theoretical killing range (3 hits in the vital area with 6(?) FPE per pellet. Someone please advise me one the killing energy needed if I am incorrect.
With today’s loads our vintage SxS fowling pieces may indeed be able to kill at 80-90 yards!
Last edited by MarkOue; 05/05/12 11:01 AM.
