Quick Answer
Water temperature impacts the performance of steel shot. In colder water, steel shot may lose velocity and accuracy, while in warmer water, it may suffer from reduced penetration due to reduced density.
Steel Shot Performance in Cold Water
In water temperatures below 40°F (4°C), steel shot may experience reduced performance due to the lower water density. This results in slower shot drop and reduced accuracy. To mitigate this issue, hunters can adjust their shooting technique to compensate for the slower shot drop, or use a rifle or muzzleloader with a flatter trajectory. For example, in water temperatures around 32°F (0°C), a 12-gauge steel shot load may lose around 10-15% of its velocity.
Steel Shot Performance in Warm Water
On the other hand, in water temperatures above 60°F (15°C), steel shot may experience reduced penetration due to the increased water density. This can lead to reduced effectiveness against larger game. To counteract this, hunters can use a load with a higher shot density or a larger shot size. For example, a 12-gauge steel shot load with a shot size of 2-3/4" and a density of 1.6 g/cc may penetrate deeper in warm water than a load with a shot size of 3" and a density of 1.4 g/cc.
Choosing the Right Steel Shot Load
When selecting a steel shot load, hunters should consider the water temperature and the type of game they are hunting. By choosing a load with the right combination of shot size and density, hunters can optimize their performance in various water temperatures. For example, for hunting geese in cold water, a 12-gauge steel shot load with a shot size of 3" and a density of 1.6 g/cc may be a good choice. In contrast, for hunting ducks in warm water, a 12-gauge steel shot load with a shot size of 2-3/4" and a density of 1.8 g/cc may be more effective.
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