Let’s Dive into **Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition
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The Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition promises a blend of performance and affordability for target shooters and sporting clays enthusiasts. Made by Fiocchi, this ammunition boasts premium components and strict manufacturing tolerances, aiming to deliver consistent results. Its 7/8oz payload of 7 1/2 shot is a popular choice for breaking clays and honing shooting skills.
I needed to find a reliable 20 gauge load that wouldn’t break the bank but still provided consistent patterns for practice. I’ve been working with some new shooters and wanted something that was gentle on the shoulder but still offered enough punch to break clays at reasonable distances. Finding a balance between recoil, price, and performance is always the goal.
Out of the box, the Fiocchi shells look clean and well-made, a noticeable step up from some of the bargain-basement target loads. The vibrant purple hull is a nice touch, making them easily identifiable on the range. The crimp is consistent, and the brass looks clean and properly seated.
I considered Winchester AA, Remington Gun Club, and Federal Top Gun before settling on the Fiocchi. While the Winchester and Remington are known for their reloadability and premium components, they command a higher price. The Federal Top Gun is a decent option, but the Fiocchi, with its advertised “VIP Heavy” designation, piqued my interest with the promise of slightly higher velocity and potentially tighter patterns.
My initial impression was positive; the shells felt well-made, and the price, especially with the 46% off, was hard to ignore. I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype on the range. I hoped they’d provide a consistent and manageable load for both myself and the new shooters I was working with.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition
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First Use Experience
I tested the Fiocchi VIP Heavy ammunition at my local sporting clays range on a sunny, slightly breezy afternoon. We ran through a variety of stations, from close-range rabbits to longer-distance crossing targets. The Fiocchi ammunition was used in a Beretta A400 Xplor and a Benelli Montefeltro, both known for their reliability and consistent performance.
The Fiocchi performed well in the dry conditions, cycling flawlessly through both semi-automatic shotguns. There were no noticeable issues with fouling or excessive residue left in the barrels. Recoil was manageable, even for the newer shooters using the lighter Benelli.
The Fiocchi loads were easy to use; there was no learning curve beyond the standard safety precautions one would take with any ammunition. Load, aim, and fire – the shells performed as expected. The crimp held tight until fired, and extraction was clean and consistent.
The only slight surprise was the sound; the Fiocchi shells seemed a bit louder than some other target loads I’ve used in the past. However, this could be subjective and influenced by the acoustics of the range. Overall, the first-time use was a positive experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Fiocchi VIP Heavy ammunition has proven to be consistent and reliable. I have not experienced any misfires or failures to eject. The performance has remained consistent, regardless of the weather conditions (within reason, of course; I haven’t tested them in a downpour).
The hulls show normal wear and tear after ejection, with no signs of unusual bulging or cracking. I don’t reload, so the condition of the hulls for reloading purposes is not something I assessed. Cleaning the shotguns after using the Fiocchi has been no different than after using other target loads; standard cleaning procedures are sufficient.
Compared to my previous experiences with other budget-friendly target loads, the Fiocchi performs admirably. The patterns seem tighter, and the recoil is more manageable than some of the cheaper bulk packs I’ve used. It offers a noticeable step up in performance without a significant increase in price.
Breaking Down the Features of **Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition
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Specifications
- Manufacturer: Fiocchi. Known for its commitment to quality and performance in ammunition manufacturing.
- Gauge: 20. A popular gauge for both target shooting and hunting, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil.
- Number of Rounds: 25. Packaged in standard 25-round boxes, making them convenient for range trips.
- Shot Size: 7.5. A versatile shot size commonly used for target shooting and small game hunting.
- Shell Length: 2 3/4 in. The standard shell length for 20 gauge, compatible with most 20 gauge shotguns.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1250 ft/s. Provides adequate energy for breaking clays at reasonable distances.
- Application: Target Shooting, Sporting Clays. Specifically designed for these applications, ensuring consistent patterns and manageable recoil.
- Included Accessories: None. Standard ammunition packaging with no included accessories.
- Shotgun Shot Weight: 7/8 oz. A common shot weight for 20 gauge target loads, offering a good balance of pattern density and recoil.
- Shot Material: Lead. The standard shot material for target loads, providing good density and consistent performance.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Ensuring reliable ignition in a variety of shotguns.
- Cartridge Case Material: Plastic. Lightweight and durable, contributing to reliable cycling and ejection.
- Lead Free: No. Standard lead shot composition, which may restrict its use in certain areas with lead bans.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the performance and user experience. The 7/8oz load of 7.5 shot at 1250 ft/s strikes a balance between recoil, pattern density, and range. The plastic hull ensures smooth cycling, while the centerfire primer contributes to reliable ignition. The use of lead shot, while effective, may limit its use in some areas due to environmental regulations.
Performance & Functionality
The Fiocchi VIP Heavy ammunition performs its job admirably, delivering consistent patterns and manageable recoil for target shooting. The shot size and velocity are well-suited for breaking clays at typical sporting clays distances. I found the accuracy to be consistent, allowing for predictable shot placement.
The primary strength of this ammunition is its consistent performance and manageable recoil. It provides a reliable and predictable shooting experience, especially beneficial for new shooters. A minor weakness could be the slightly louder report compared to some other target loads, but this is subjective and may not bother most shooters.
The Fiocchi VIP Heavy generally meets expectations for a target load in this price range. It provides a noticeable step up in performance compared to the cheapest bulk packs, offering better patterns and more consistent results. It might not match the premium offerings from Winchester or Remington, but it delivers excellent value for the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Fiocchi VIP Heavy ammunition is designed with functionality in mind, using standard 20 gauge dimensions and a clean, well-made construction. The vibrant purple hull is a visual identifier, and the crimp is consistently applied. The shells are easy to load and handle.
The build quality of the Fiocchi shells feels solid and reliable. The plastic hulls are durable, and the brass bases are properly seated. The ammunition is comfortable to handle, with no sharp edges or imperfections that could cause discomfort. There is no learning curve; the shells are designed for straightforward use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Fiocchi VIP Heavy ammunition is designed for single-use and is not intended to be reloaded (though some experienced reloaders may attempt it). The shells are durable enough to withstand normal handling and loading without damage. The expected lifespan is dependent on storage conditions, but properly stored ammunition should remain viable for many years.
Maintenance is not applicable to ammunition. The shells are disposable after use. Cleaning your shotgun after using the Fiocchi requires standard cleaning procedures; there are no special considerations.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come standard with the Fiocchi VIP Heavy ammunition. It is designed for direct use in any standard 20 gauge shotgun chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells. Customization options are limited to selecting different shotguns and chokes to optimize the patterns produced by the ammunition.
The Fiocchi VIP Heavy ammunition is compatible with a wide range of 20 gauge shotguns and choke tubes. The choice of choke tube will significantly impact the pattern density and effective range of the ammunition. Experimenting with different chokes is essential to achieving optimal performance.
Pros and Cons of **Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition
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Pros
- Consistent Performance: Delivers reliable patterns and predictable shot placement.
- Manageable Recoil: Suitable for both experienced and new shooters.
- Affordable Price: Provides excellent value for the performance offered.
- Clean Burning: Doesn’t leave excessive residue in the barrel.
- Reliable Ignition: Centerfire primers ensure consistent firing.
Cons
- Slightly Louder Report: May be noticeable to some shooters.
- Lead Shot: May restrict use in areas with lead bans.
Who Should Buy **Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition
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Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge ammunition is perfect for target shooters and sporting clays enthusiasts who seek a balance of performance and affordability. New shooters will appreciate the manageable recoil, while experienced shooters will appreciate the consistent patterns. This ammunition is also suitable for small game hunters who prefer lead shot.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who require lead-free ammunition due to environmental regulations. It may also not be the top choice for competitive shooters who demand the absolute highest levels of consistency and are willing to pay a premium. Those individuals often seek hand-loaded or ultra-premium ammunition.
Must-have accessories include a reliable 20 gauge shotgun and a selection of choke tubes to optimize patterns for different shooting scenarios. Eye and ear protection are essential for safe shooting. A shell bag or vest can also be helpful for carrying ammunition on the range.
Conclusion on **Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition
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The Fiocchi VIP Heavy 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75in 7 1/2 Shot Shotgun Ammunition is a reliable and affordable target load that delivers consistent performance. It offers a good balance of manageable recoil, adequate velocity, and reliable patterns, making it a solid choice for both new and experienced shooters. The 46% discount makes it an even more compelling value.
The price is definitely justified, especially with the current discount. You get a noticeable step up in performance compared to the cheapest bulk packs without breaking the bank. It’s an excellent option for high-volume target shooting and practice sessions.
I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable 20 gauge target load. It has consistently performed well in my testing, and I appreciate the manageable recoil and consistent patterns. Grab a few boxes while they’re on sale and experience the Fiocchi difference for yourself.