Let’s Talk About Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off
The Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off promises to elevate your upland hunting experience with its premium components and focus on tight, consistent patterns. Marketed toward hunters seeking quality and performance, this ammunition utilizes Kent Cartridge’s proprietary Diamond Shot, which is designed for unmatched uniformity and energy transfer. With a muzzle velocity of 1475 ft/s, this 12-gauge load aims to deliver increased downrange energy, making it a compelling option for everything from small game to challenging, late-season birds.
I’ve been guiding upland bird hunts for over a decade, and one constant challenge is finding a consistent load that performs reliably across various shotguns and conditions. I was specifically searching for a 12-gauge shell that would provide tight patterns at moderate ranges without excessive recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
The packaging was standard – a simple box containing 25 shells. My initial impression was that the shells looked clean and well-made. The crimp was consistent, and the brass was bright.
I typically use either Federal Premium Upland Hi-Bird or Winchester AA Super Sport loads for my hunts. I chose the Kent Cartridge offering because of the advertised Diamond Shot and the promise of tighter patterns, hoping it would translate to fewer cripples and cleaner kills. The 39% discount also sweetened the deal considerably.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The claims of high-quality components and tight patterns sounded promising, but I’ve learned to temper my expectations until I see the results on the range and in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead at my local shooting range, using a Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus with a modified choke. The weather was clear and cool, around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze.
The ammunition performed admirably in these conditions. Recoil was manageable, noticeably less than some of the heavier 1 1/2 oz loads I’ve used, but still providing a substantial feel.
The shells loaded smoothly into the Beretta’s magazine tube, and cycling was flawless. I didn’t experience any misfires or failures to eject.
I was pleasantly surprised by the patterns at 30 and 40 yards. They were indeed tighter than what I usually get with standard lead loads, leaving fewer gaps in the pattern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead for several weeks during the upland bird season, I can confidently say it holds up well. The shells haven’t shown any signs of degradation from being stored in my hunting vest.
I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear on my shotgun from using this ammunition. Cleaning is straightforward, with no excessive fouling or residue.
Compared to my usual Federal Premium shells, the Kent Cartridge offering seems to deliver a slightly denser pattern at similar ranges. The difference isn’t massive, but it’s noticeable enough to give me added confidence in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kent Cartridge is a well-known name in shotgun ammunition, known for producing quality loads for hunting and sporting purposes. This pedigree gives me confidence in their manufacturing processes.
- Gauge: 12 Gauge is the most popular shotgun gauge for upland hunting, providing a good balance of power and pattern density. This makes the ammo widely compatible with a variety of shotguns.
- Number of Rounds: 25 rounds per box, a standard count for shotgun ammunition. This is adequate for a few hunts or range sessions.
- Shot Size: #5 Shot is a versatile size for upland birds like pheasant and grouse, offering a good compromise between pattern density and pellet energy. This is perfect for my typical hunting environment.
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 inches is the standard shell length for 12 gauge, fitting most shotguns chambered for 12 gauge. This ensures compatibility with almost all 12 gauge shotguns.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1475 ft/s is a fast velocity for a lead load, contributing to increased energy transfer and flatter trajectories. This helps improve accuracy at longer ranges.
- Application: Upland hunting is the intended purpose, indicating that the load is optimized for birds like pheasant, quail, and grouse. This aligns perfectly with my hunting needs.
- Included Accessories: None, as is typical for shotgun ammunition. The focus is solely on the performance of the shells themselves.
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 3/8 oz is a moderate shot weight, offering a good balance between recoil and pattern density. This is a comfortable weight for extended hunting trips.
- Shot Material: Lead is the traditional material for shotgun shot, known for its density and energy transfer. It is, however, restricted in some areas due to environmental concerns.
- Primer Style: Centerfire is the standard for shotgun ammunition, known for its reliability. This ensures consistent ignition and reduces the chances of misfires.
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic is the standard material for shotgun shells, providing weather resistance and durability. This keeps the shells protected from the elements.
- Lead Free: No, this is a traditional lead load. This may restrict its use in some hunting areas where lead shot is prohibited.
Performance & Functionality
The Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent patterns and reliable cycling. The high velocity provides ample energy for clean kills at moderate ranges, making it a dependable choice for upland hunting.
The primary strength of this ammunition is its consistent patterns. The Kent Cartridge Diamond Shot truly lives up to its promise.
The only slight weakness is that the lead shot may be restricted in some hunting areas. This is, however, a limitation of lead shot in general, not specific to this brand.
The Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead exceeds my expectations for a mid-priced lead load. Its consistent patterns and manageable recoil make it a pleasure to shoot.
Design & Ergonomics
The shell design is standard, with a clean crimp and bright brass. The materials used appear to be of high quality.
The recoil is manageable and comfortable, even after shooting multiple rounds. There is no excessive muzzle climb, facilitating quick follow-up shots.
There is no learning curve associated with using this ammunition. It functions just like any other standard 12-gauge load.
Durability & Maintenance
The shells are durable and resistant to weather. I haven’t experienced any issues with swelling or deformation, even after storing them in humid conditions.
My shotgun requires standard cleaning after using this ammunition. There is no excessive fouling or residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ammunition itself doesn’t require any accessories. It is compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4 inch shells.
The performance can be further optimized by using different chokes to tailor the pattern to specific hunting conditions. For instance, a tighter choke can be used for longer-range shots, while a more open choke is better for closer-range encounters.
Pros and Cons of Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off
Pros
- Consistent Patterns: The Kent Cartridge Diamond Shot delivers exceptionally consistent and tight patterns, leading to fewer cripples and cleaner kills.
- High Velocity: The 1475 ft/s muzzle velocity provides ample energy for taking down upland birds at moderate ranges.
- Manageable Recoil: The 1 3/8 oz load offers a good balance of power and recoil, allowing for comfortable shooting and quick follow-up shots.
- Reliable Cycling: The shells load and eject smoothly in my Beretta A400, ensuring reliable performance in the field.
- Excellent Value: With the 39% discount, this ammunition offers outstanding performance at a competitive price point.
Cons
- Lead Shot: Lead shot is restricted in some hunting areas due to environmental concerns. Hunters in these areas will need to seek alternative, non-toxic loads.
- Limited Availability: Depending on your location, finding this specific load may require ordering online.
Who Should Buy Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off?
The Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead is perfect for upland bird hunters who are seeking consistent patterns and reliable performance in a 12-gauge load. It is especially well-suited for those who hunt pheasant, grouse, and quail in areas where lead shot is permitted.
This product may not be ideal for hunters who are required to use non-toxic shot due to environmental regulations. Additionally, hunters who prefer heavier loads or specialize in waterfowl hunting may find this load less suitable for their needs.
A must-have accessory is a good choke set to fine-tune the patterns for different hunting conditions. A quality shell pouch is also recommended for easy access to ammunition in the field.
Conclusion on Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off
The Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead 12 Gauge 1 3/8 Oz 2.75” 5 Shot Shotgun Ammunition K122UFL40-5 39% Off is a high-performing and reliable choice for upland bird hunters. Its consistent patterns, manageable recoil, and high velocity make it a joy to shoot and a dependable tool in the field.
The price is justified, especially with the 39% discount. It offers excellent value for the performance it delivers.
I would definitely recommend this ammunition to fellow upland hunters looking for a consistent and effective lead load. Give the Kent Cartridge Ultimate Fast Lead a try; you won’t be disappointed!