copper coated lead shot

[lone hunter]

I have a TC 62cal smoothbore I want to use for turkeys and grouse. Read here that steel will tear up the barrel so went to shot cups. Not real happy with the shot cups as they give inconsistent patterns, sometimes just a slug hole. Want to try lead shot and eliminate the cups.
Can I use the copper coated lead shot with out the cups and not damage my barrel?
Thanks for any input you can give me.

 

[Black Hand]

If there are no restrictions, why not just use lead shot? Other than waterfowling (or places that restrict the use of lead), I don't know anyone who would use steel shot as their go-to for a smoothbore...

 

[BrownBear]

No harm from the copper coated lead. Fire away!

 

[mooman76]

I don't know for sure but I see no problem with it. Copper is softer than steel and if it's coated over lead then that's even softer but I agree, why not just use regular lead shot.

 

[crockett]

Wait for better advice but I think you can use mylar wrapping and all sorts of things. Off hand a turkey load ought to be tight but all the grouse I shoot need a more open pattern.

 

[Black Hand]

The only thing the copper might do is slow the leading somewhat. I doubt it will eliminate the issue, as the layer of copper is likely quite thin.

How were you making your shot-cups? That you got the occasional "slug" indicates to me that the cups were doing half their job...

 

[mooman76]

What were you using for cups? They should open up when air hits them and then the shot pattern would open as well.

 

[lone hunter]

Having trouble finding lead shot around here but can get the copper coated. Would rather use lead.

Cups are un-slotted. If I cut to 3/4in. pattern will cover a bus at 25 yds. If I cut to 1/2in pattern is better but inconsistent. Anything less is a slug. Just want things to be simple and straight forward with expected results. Have to be very particular with the ramrod when loading.
Thanks for your help and reply's. If I can't find lead, I will get the copper coated and use that until I find lead.

 

[Black Hand]

I make my cups from brown paper and linen thread - think a Tootsie Roll of shot...

 

[coloradoclyde]

Can I use the copper coated lead shot with out the cups and not damage my barrel?

Yes you can....and it was developed to out perform both chilled and magnum shot. The copper plating is designed to reduce deformation upon firing....it is still lead shot.

 

[wattlebuster]

Yes :thumbsup: Have at it

 

[nhmoose]

I love #5 copper plated in my smooth bores. No problems using it.