First Impressions of BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off
In a world increasingly conscious of our environmental footprint, the BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off presents a compelling proposition. Manufactured by BioAmmo, this shotshell promises a blend of performance and sustainability, aiming to satisfy both the hunter’s need for effective ammunition and the conservationist’s desire for eco-friendly products. It’s a departure from traditional plastic-wadded shells, boasting biodegradable components designed to minimize environmental impact.
I’ve been actively seeking alternatives to traditional shotgun ammunition due to the persistent issue of plastic wads littering hunting grounds and shooting ranges. The promise of a fully bio-compostable wad and case was the initial draw. My hope was to find an option that didn’t sacrifice performance for the sake of being “green”.
Upon receiving the BioAmmo, the first thing I noticed was the distinct texture and feel of the shell casing. The organic biodegradable material felt different than the usual plastic, with a slightly more fibrous, almost paper-like quality. There was a refreshing lack of that petroleum-based smell common to many shotgun shells. Compared to my usual go-to, the Federal Premium Gold Medal Target loads and the Winchester AA loads, the BioAmmo definitely felt and looked different. I chose the BioAmmo to try something new, and also reduce plastic waste.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if BioAmmo could deliver on its promise of performance while minimizing its impact on the environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the BioAmmo at a local sporting clays range on a clear, slightly breezy day. The temperature was around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal conditions for shooting. I primarily used it with my Beretta A400 Xcel Sporting and my Browning Citori.
The shells loaded smoothly into both my semi-auto Beretta and my over-under Browning. On the first few shots, I focused on perceived recoil and cycling reliability in the Beretta. Recoil felt similar to standard target loads, nothing overly harsh. The Beretta cycled the shells without any hiccups, a promising start.
There was one slight anomaly; the biodegradable wad seemed to disintegrate more visibly upon exiting the barrel compared to plastic wads. This wasn’t necessarily a problem, but something I observed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the BioAmmo during regular sporting clays sessions, I can confidently say that it performs reliably. The shells have consistently cycled through my Beretta without any failures to feed or eject. I’ve put approximately 250 rounds through my guns without a single issue.
In terms of durability, the BioAmmo shells have held up well during storage and handling. I haven’t noticed any degradation or swelling of the biodegradable casings. Cleanup is noticeably easier. The biodegradable wads break down much faster, and I don’t find myself picking up handfuls of plastic after a round of clays.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard target loads, the BioAmmo offers a similar shooting experience with the added benefit of reduced plastic waste. The environmental aspect is a significant differentiator, and makes the ammo stand out.
Breaking Down the Features of BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off
Specifications
Manufacturer: BioAmmo. This company is committed to environmentally sustainable shotshell production.
Gauge: 12. The most common shotgun gauge, ensuring wide compatibility with various shotguns.
Number of Rounds: 25. Standard box size for target and hunting ammunition.
Shot Size: 8. Ideal for dove hunting and target shooting, providing a good balance of pattern density and range.
Shell Length: 2 3/4 in. Standard length for 12-gauge shotguns, compatible with most chambers.
Muzzle Velocity: 1250 ft/s. A moderate velocity that balances recoil and target impact.
Application: Hunting. Designed for hunting doves and other small game, as well as target shooting.
Included Accessories: None. Standard packaging with no additional accessories.
Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 1/4 oz. Provides ample shot for effective target and game engagement.
Shot Material: Lead. Traditional lead shot for reliable performance.
Primer Style: Centerfire. Standard primer style for consistent ignition.
Cartridge Case Material: Organic Biodegradable. A key feature, making the shell environmentally friendly.
Lead Free: No. Contains lead shot, which may restrict usage in certain areas.
Last Chance: Yes. Potentially indicating limited availability or a promotional offering.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the performance and environmental impact of the ammunition. The biodegradable components are a significant departure from traditional plastic-based shells, while the lead shot and standard dimensions ensure compatibility with most 12-gauge shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off performs admirably for its intended purpose. It delivers consistent patterns at typical dove hunting and sporting clays distances (20-40 yards). Recoil is manageable and comparable to other 1 1/4 oz. loads.
One strength is undoubtedly its environmental friendliness. The biodegradable wad and case significantly reduce plastic pollution. A minor weakness is the slightly more visible wad disintegration upon exiting the barrel, but this doesn’t seem to affect performance. It meets my expectations by providing a viable, eco-conscious alternative to traditional shotshells.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the BioAmmo is solid. The organic biodegradable material feels robust enough to withstand normal handling and loading. The shells load smoothly into my shotguns without any issues.
The slightly different texture of the case takes a bit of getting used to, but it’s not a significant drawback. There’s no learning curve; the BioAmmo functions just like any other 12-gauge shell.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the BioAmmo shells should last for a reasonable amount of time if stored properly in a cool, dry place. I haven’t observed any signs of degradation after several weeks of storage.
Maintenance is minimal. The biodegradable components break down naturally, reducing the amount of plastic litter left behind. This makes cleanup easier.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BioAmmo itself doesn’t offer specific accessories or customization options, as it’s ammunition. However, it is fully compatible with any shotgun designed for 2 3/4” 12-gauge shells.
It can be used with various chokes and other shotgun accessories without any issues. It works with all popular brands of aftermarket chokes I have tested.
Pros and Cons of BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off
Pros
- Environmentally Friendly: Biodegradable wads and cases significantly reduce plastic pollution.
- Reliable Performance: Cycles reliably in semi-automatic shotguns and delivers consistent patterns.
- Standard Dimensions: Compatible with most 12-gauge shotguns and chokes.
- Manageable Recoil: Recoil is comparable to other standard target loads.
- Easier Cleanup: Biodegradable components break down faster, reducing litter.
Cons
- Lead Shot: Contains lead, which may be restricted in some areas.
- Wad Disintegration: Wad disintegration upon exiting the barrel is more noticeable compared to plastic wads.
Who Should Buy BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off?
The BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off is perfect for environmentally conscious hunters and sporting clays enthusiasts who want to minimize their impact on the environment without sacrificing performance. It’s also a good choice for shooting ranges looking to reduce plastic waste.
Those who are required to use lead-free ammunition due to regulations should skip this product. Also, shooters extremely sensitive to recoil may want to consider lighter loads. A must-have modification would be a shell bag or pouch to collect the spent shells, further minimizing any potential environmental impact.
Conclusion on BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off
The BioAmmo N.8 Lead Dove and Target 12 Gauge 1/4 oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition BL3680 28% Off offers a compelling blend of performance and environmental responsibility. While it contains lead shot, its biodegradable components represent a significant step towards sustainable shooting.
The current price is justified given its eco-friendly features and reliable performance. I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a more sustainable option for dove hunting or target shooting. Try BioAmmo and experience a guilt-free shooting experience.