What Makes **RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 13% Off** Stand Out?
The RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 13% Off enters a market saturated with shotgun shells, promising consistency and quality for the discerning shooter. Made by RC Cartridge, a name synonymous with competition-grade ammunition, this particular load is designed for .410 bore shotguns and features a 1/2oz shot charge within a 2 3/4” shell. What immediately sets it apart is its focus on delivering tight patterns and reliable performance, making it suitable for both seasoned competitors and recreational shooters alike.
I needed a reliable .410 load for small game hunting and occasional sporting clays. My primary goal was to find ammunition that cycled consistently in my older single-shot and delivered consistent patterns for ethical harvests.
The packaging was standard, but the shells themselves looked clean and well-made. The plastic hulls felt robust, and the crimps were uniform, indicating a high level of quality control.
Compared to Winchester AA .410 and Federal Premium .410, the RC Cartridge offering appeared to prioritize consistent shot weight and powder charge over flashy marketing. While both Winchester and Federal have their merits, I was drawn to the RC Cartridge due to its reputation for competition use, hoping this would translate to tighter patterns in the field.
My initial impression was positive; the ammunition looked and felt like a premium product. I was eager to see how it would perform compared to other, more readily available, .410 loads.
Real-World Testing: Putting **RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 13% Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition at my local shooting range, focusing on pattern density at 20 and 30 yards. This was followed by a dove hunting trip in South Texas, where the real test would be in live game scenarios.
The ammunition performed flawlessly under sunny, dry conditions at the range. Cycling was smooth in both my single-shot and my over-under, with no noticeable recoil issues.
The shells were easy to load and extract, and the patterns were noticeably tighter than with some of the cheaper, bulk-pack .410 loads I’ve used in the past.
The only minor issue was a bit more plastic fouling in the barrel compared to some other brands, but nothing a good cleaning couldn’t handle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple trips to the range and several dove hunts, the RC Cartridge ammunition has proven to be consistently reliable. The shells show no signs of degradation after being stored in my ammo can, and the crimps remain tight and uniform.
The hulls are holding up well, even after repeated reloads (for those who reload .410). Cleaning remains straightforward.
Compared to my previous go-to .410 loads, the RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge has consistently delivered tighter, more effective patterns at longer ranges, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer cripples. It definitely outperforms some of the bulk-pack options in terms of both pattern density and consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of **RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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Specifications
The RC Cartridge RC36 is a .410 gauge shotgun shell. It is designed for use in .410 bore shotguns.
It features a 1/2 oz shot weight. This provides a balance between pattern density and manageable recoil.
The shell length is 2 3/4 inches. This is the standard length for .410 shells, ensuring compatibility with most .410 shotguns.
The muzzle velocity is listed at 1250 ft/s. This ensures sufficient energy for effective range and penetration.
The ammunition is designed for competition use. This suggests a focus on consistency and tight patterns, which is desirable in any shotgun shell.
The cartridge case material is plastic. This is standard for modern shotgun shells, offering weather resistance and ease of ejection.
Each box contains 250 rounds. This is a substantial quantity, suitable for extended range sessions or hunting seasons.
The ammunition utilizes 2.5% Antimony Tempered Lead. This increases the hardness of the shot, reducing deformation and leading to tighter patterns.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the performance and effectiveness of the ammunition. A higher muzzle velocity translates to more energy on target, while harder shot ensures consistent patterns.
Performance & Functionality
The RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge performs admirably, delivering consistent patterns and reliable cycling. The 1250 ft/s muzzle velocity provides ample energy for small game hunting and sporting clays.
The primary strength is the pattern density; at 20-30 yards, the shot holds together remarkably well, delivering a dense core. The only real weakness is the slightly higher price point compared to some bulk-pack options.
It definitely meets and, in some cases, exceeds my expectations for a .410 load, especially in terms of pattern consistency.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with clean crimps and consistent dimensions. The plastic hulls feel robust and well-made.
The ammunition is easy to handle and load. There is no noticeable learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge appears to be durable, showing no signs of degradation even after extended storage. The plastic hulls resist moisture and physical damage.
Maintenance is minimal; simply cleaning the shotgun after use is sufficient. There are no specific maintenance requirements for the ammunition itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge is primarily ammunition and does not come with any accessories. Customization options are limited to the shotgun itself (chokes, sights, etc.).
The ammunition is compatible with any .410 bore shotgun chambered for 2 3/4” shells. It can be used with a variety of chokes to further refine pattern density.
Pros and Cons of **RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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Pros
- Consistently tight patterns: The 2.5% Antimony Tempered Lead ensures minimal shot deformation, resulting in denser, more effective patterns at longer ranges. This translates to cleaner kills and higher scores.
- Reliable Cycling: The ammunition cycles smoothly in a variety of .410 shotguns, minimizing malfunctions and ensuring consistent performance. This is crucial for both hunting and competition.
- High Muzzle Velocity: The 1250 ft/s muzzle velocity provides ample energy for effective range and penetration, making it suitable for various applications. You will appreciate the extra power.
- Competition-Grade Quality: Designed for competition use, this ammunition prioritizes consistency and performance, ensuring a level of quality that is above standard bulk-pack options. You get what you pay for with RC Cartridge.
- Durable Construction: The robust plastic hulls and consistent crimps contribute to the overall durability of the ammunition, ensuring reliable performance even after extended storage. You can count on this ammo to fire, even after years of storage.
Cons
- Price: The RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge is more expensive than some bulk-pack .410 loads. Budget-conscious shooters might find it cost-prohibitive for high-volume shooting.
- Plastic Fouling: There may be slightly more plastic fouling in the barrel compared to some other premium brands. A good cleaning after each use is recommended.
Who Should Buy **RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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Perfect for: Competitive shooters seeking consistent performance, small game hunters looking for ethical and effective ammunition, and those who prioritize quality and reliability over price.
Who should skip this product? Budget-conscious shooters who prioritize quantity over quality might find this ammunition too expensive for casual shooting.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality choke set can further refine pattern density for specific applications. Also, consider a good cleaning kit to remove any plastic fouling.
Conclusion on **RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
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The RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge 1/2oz 2 3/4” Shotgun Ammunition
Up to 13% Off is a premium .410 load that delivers on its promise of consistent performance and tight patterns. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the quality and reliability justify the investment for serious shooters.
The ammunition offers a clear advantage in pattern density and consistency compared to cheaper, bulk-pack options. If you value ethical harvests and improved scores, this ammunition is worth considering.
I would personally recommend the RC Cartridge RC36 .410 Gauge to anyone looking for a high-quality .410 load for hunting or competition. Upgrade your .410 experience today!