Five of the best cartridges for UK shooting

The Great British Shooting Awards Nominee

The Hull Superfast Pigeon remains a favourite for decoying pigeons. Many shooters also use it for small game and farm work. It features a 29g load of No.6 shot in a 70mm case. Muzzle velocity sits at around 1,425fps.

As a result, pellets retain strong energy on fast-moving birds. Recoil stays manageable, even during busy days. Consistency is its biggest strength. Shooters report even patterns, especially from semi-automatic guns. This reliability proves useful on multiple flushes. Clean kills come with repeatable performance.

Overall, Hull Superfast Pigeon offers balance and value. It suits shooters wanting dependable results without overspending.

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The Great British Shooting Awards Nominee

Pressure on lead use continues to grow across the UK. As a result, steel cartridges are becoming increasingly important. The Eley Hawk ESP HP Steel Pro Eco Wad offers a future-ready solution. It combines steel shot with a biodegradable wad system.

The Pro Eco wad breaks down in water or over time outdoors. This reduces environmental impact without sacrificing performance. The cartridge carries a 32g steel payload. It is available in shot sizes 4 or 5.

Muzzle velocity reaches around 1,279fps. This provides strong pellet energy on tougher birds. With correct choke selection, patterns remain even and effective. Performance compares well with traditional lead loads.

This cartridge suits wildfowl and general game shooting. It also aligns with evolving lead regulations.

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Just Cartridges Xtreme Game targets value-conscious game shooters. It suits those wanting reliability without premium pricing.

Built in a 65mm case, it comes in 12-bore options. Loads include 30g or 32g with shot sizes 5 or 6. This range covers most mid-range game shooting needs. Partridge, pheasant and mixed days are well served.

A key feature is Diamond Shot. This improves pattern consistency and pellet uniformity. The result is effective performance without extra recoil. Shot weight remains practical for longer days.

Xtreme Game may lack premium branding. However, real-world performance remains strong. For stocking up on cartridges for the season, it makes sense.
Value, versatility and effectiveness are well balanced.

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The Great British Shooting Awards Nominee

This cartridge is designed for minimal recoil. It suits lightweight guns and recoil-sensitive shooters.At just 16g in a 65mm case, recoil remains very low.
This helps reduce fatigue during long sessions.

It works particularly well in side-by-side shotguns. Younger and lighter-framed shooters also benefit.

The cartridge uses steel shot and a Green Core biodegradable wad. This makes it non-toxic and environmentally responsible. Low recoil aids control and follow-up shots. Consistency remains impressive despite the light load.

This cartridge suits land where lead is restricted. It also appeals to shooters focused on sustainability.

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The RC Prestige range delivers traditional lead performance. It suits pigeon, partridge and pheasant shooting. The 12-bore 32g fibre wad option remains popular. Shot sizes 5 or 6 cover most UK game scenarios.

Pattern density proves reliable on driven days. It also works well for walking-up shooting. RC Prestige sits between economy and premium loads. Performance remains dependable without excessive cost.

For shooters preferring classic lead cartridges, it fits well. It suits mixed-species shooting across UK farmland and cover.

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Each cartridge here excels in its own role. From pigeon hides to driven days, options suit all needs. Whether choosing steel or lead, recoil lightness or value pricing, these five loads stand out. They reflect modern UK shooting demands and conditions.