First Impressions of Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition XBS12L2 $3.50 Off
For years, I’ve relied on various 12-gauge loads for waterfowl hunting, always searching for that perfect combination of pattern density, range, and terminal performance. The Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition XBS12L2 promises a unique approach with its innovative Hex steel shot, aiming to deliver more pellets on target and a larger kill zone. This caught my attention because consistently clean kills are ethical and essential when hunting.
My quest for a superior waterfowl load stems from countless frustrating hunts where birds were wounded but not immediately downed, leading to difficult and sometimes unsuccessful recoveries. I was hoping that Winchester’s Hex shot design could change the game.
Upon receiving the Winchester Blind Slide 2, the first thing I noticed was the distinctive packaging showcasing the hexagonal shot. The shells themselves appeared well-constructed, with a clean crimp and a nickel-plated head—a nice touch indicating attention to corrosion resistance, a crucial factor in the often-wet environments where I hunt. The 3.5-inch shell length is my standard for waterfowl because it maximizes payload.
Compared to my usual choice of Federal Black Cloud and Kent Fasteel, the Blind Side 2’s unique shot shape was the obvious differentiator. While Black Cloud relies on Flitecontrol wads and mixed shot sizes for pattern density, and Kent uses high-velocity steel, Winchester aims for a more trauma-inducing payload via the Hex shot. I chose the Blind Side 2 hoping that the Hex shot would prove more effective at longer ranges.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic about the Winchester Blind Side 2. The concept of Hex shot was intriguing, but I knew that real-world performance is what truly matters.
Real-World Testing: Putting Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition XBS12L2 $3.50 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Winchester Blind Side 2 was at a local shooting range equipped with patterning boards. The goal was to assess the shot patterns at various distances, simulating typical waterfowl hunting scenarios. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal testing conditions.
The recoil from the 3.5-inch shells was substantial, as expected, but manageable in my Benelli Super Black Eagle II. The patterns at 30 and 40 yards were noticeably dense, with a more uniform distribution of pellets compared to the standard round steel shot I was using for comparison. There were no immediate issues, although I did notice a slightly different sound upon firing, likely due to the Hex shot’s unique aerodynamics.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Winchester Blind Side 2 throughout the waterfowl season, I’ve gained a solid understanding of its capabilities and limitations. The shells have proven reliable in various weather conditions, from early morning frost to pouring rain. The nickel-plated heads have resisted corrosion admirably.
While I haven’t experienced any malfunctions, I did notice that the plastic hulls can become slightly brittle in extremely cold temperatures (below freezing), making them a bit harder to eject smoothly from certain semi-automatic shotguns. This is a minor issue, but worth noting for hunters in colder climates. Compared to my previous go-to loads, the Blind Side 2 offers a noticeable improvement in pattern density at longer ranges, resulting in cleaner kills on ducks and geese that would have previously flown on.
Breaking Down the Features of Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition XBS12L2 $3.50 Off
Specifications
The Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition boasts several key specifications:
- Gauge: 12
- Number of Rounds: 25
- Shot Size: 2
- Shell Length: 3 1/2 in
- Muzzle Velocity: 1400 ft/s
- Application: Hunting
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 5/8 oz
- Shot Material: Steel
- Primer Style: Centerfire
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic
- Lead Free: Yes
These specifications are important because they directly impact the ammunition’s performance and suitability for waterfowl hunting. The 3.5-inch shell and 1 5/8 oz payload provide ample shot for longer-range engagements, while the 1400 ft/s muzzle velocity ensures sufficient energy for clean kills. The lead-free steel shot is a legal requirement for waterfowl hunting in most areas.
Performance & Functionality
The Winchester Blind Slide 2 performs admirably in its intended role. The Hex steel shot delivers denser patterns compared to traditional round shot, especially at longer ranges (40 yards and beyond). This translates to a larger effective kill zone and more consistent results.
The primary strength is the improved pattern density and trauma induced by the Hex shot, resulting in cleaner kills. A minor weakness is the slightly increased recoil compared to lighter loads. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, especially in scenarios where longer-range shots are common.
Design & Ergonomics
The Blind Side 2 features a well-designed shell with a nickel-plated head for corrosion resistance and a 4-petal wad for improved choke response. The build quality is excellent, with consistent crimping and a reliable primer. The shells handle well, although the longer 3.5-inch length can be cumbersome in some older or shorter-action shotguns.
The shells are user-friendly, with no unusual loading or ejection issues (except for the aforementioned cold-weather brittleness). There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The shells themselves are single-use items, but the nickel-plated heads offer excellent corrosion resistance for reliable performance in harsh conditions. Proper storage in a dry environment is essential to prevent moisture damage to the powder and primers. The plastic hulls are not reloadable.
Maintenance is limited to proper storage and ensuring that the shotgun’s chamber and bore are clean to prevent any buildup from plastic residue. Under normal conditions, the shells should last for several years if stored correctly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Winchester Blind Side 2 ammunition itself does not require any specific accessories. However, pairing it with a choke tube designed for steel shot is essential to achieve optimal performance. Chokes labeled “modified” or “improved modified” generally work well.
There are no specific customization options for the ammunition itself. The user has control over the shotgun choke and the shotgun itself.
Pros and Cons of Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition XBS12L2 $3.50 Off
Pros
- Improved Pattern Density: The Hex steel shot delivers significantly denser patterns, especially at longer ranges.
- Increased Trauma: The unique shape of the Hex shot is designed to inflict more trauma, leading to faster and cleaner kills.
- Corrosion Resistance: The nickel-plated head provides excellent protection against corrosion in wet environments.
- Reliable Performance: The shells have proven reliable in various weather conditions and shotguns.
- Ethical Hunting: The increased likelihood of clean kills promotes ethical hunting practices.
Cons
- Increased Recoil: The 3.5-inch shells generate substantial recoil, which may be uncomfortable for some shooters.
- Cold-Weather Brittleness: The plastic hulls can become slightly brittle in extremely cold temperatures.
Who Should Buy Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition XBS12L2 $3.50 Off?
The Winchester Blind Slide 2 is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently encounter longer-range shots and prioritize pattern density and ethical kills. It’s also a good choice for hunters who want reliable performance in various weather conditions.
Hunters who are sensitive to recoil or primarily hunt in extremely cold climates might want to consider other options. A must-have is a choke tube specifically designed for steel shot.
Conclusion on Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition XBS12L2 $3.50 Off
The Winchester Blind Slide 2 12 Gauge 1.63 oz 3.5in Shotgun Ammunition is a high-performing waterfowl load that delivers on its promise of denser patterns and increased trauma. The price is justified by the improved performance and ethical hunting benefits.
I would definitely recommend it to serious waterfowl hunters looking for an edge in the field. Give the Winchester Blind Side 2 a try and experience the difference for yourself—you might just find your new go-to load.