Let’s Talk About **Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition
K202US24-5 $1.60 Off**
For the upland bird hunter seeking a reliable, non-toxic load that delivers consistent performance without breaking the bank, the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition K202US24-5 $1.60 Off is a compelling option. Manufactured by Kent Cartridge, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in shotgun ammunition, this load promises tight patterns, high velocities, and ethical hunting. Let’s delve into what makes this particular offering a contender in the crowded world of shotgun shells.
I was searching for a 20 gauge load that was both effective on pheasant and quail, and also compliant with non-toxic shot regulations required in some of the hunting areas I frequent. Lead shot is simply becoming less and less viable. I needed a reliable steel load.
The first thing I noticed upon unboxing was the clean, consistent crimp and the quality of the plastic hull. The shells felt well-constructed, not flimsy like some budget loads I’ve encountered. The promise of high velocities piqued my interest immediately.
I considered the Winchester Super-X Steel and the Federal Speed-Shok Steel, but the Kent Cartridge offering seemed to strike a better balance between price and performance, based on online reviews and specifications. The Winchester was cheaper, but reports of inconsistent patterns worried me.
My first impression was definitely excitement; the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load appeared to be a well-made, reliable load that would perform admirably in the field. The $1.60 off was a nice bonus, too.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition
K202US24-5 $1.60 Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load during an early-season pheasant hunt in South Dakota, where conditions were cool and dry. The terrain varied from open fields to thick cover near creek beds. I used a Beretta A400 Xplor 20 gauge with a modified choke.
The shells cycled flawlessly through my semi-automatic, with consistent ejection and no noticeable hang-ups. The recoil was manageable, even after a full day of walking and shooting. I was impressed with the power it packed.
Even in slightly damp conditions near the creek, the shells ignited reliably, and the crimp remained intact. The shells were easy to load and unload. No issues at all.
After the first box, I noticed how clean the burn was; there was minimal residue in my shotgun’s action. I was pleasantly surprised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use across multiple hunts, the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load continues to perform reliably. I’ve put at least 250 rounds through my shotgun with these shells.
I haven’t observed any signs of significant wear and tear on the shells themselves; the plastic hulls are holding up well. Even after being stored in my hunting vest pocket for hours, they still load and eject flawlessly. The performance is unchanged, even when I leave them in the truck on cold nights.
Maintenance is a breeze; the clean-burning powder minimizes the amount of cleaning required after each hunt. A quick wipe-down of the action and bore is typically all that’s needed. This is a huge time saver!
Compared to some cheaper steel loads I’ve used in the past, the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load significantly outperforms them in terms of consistency, cleanliness, and overall reliability. I can depend on these shells.
Breaking Down the Features of **Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition
K202US24-5 $1.60 Off**
Specifications
The Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition K202US24-5 boasts several key specifications. It’s a 20 gauge shell, 2 3/4 inches in length, loaded with 7/8 oz of #5 steel shot. It comes in boxes of 25 rounds, with a listed muzzle velocity of 1500 feet per second.
The 20 gauge platform offers a good balance of manageable recoil and sufficient power for upland birds. The 2 3/4 inch shell length is compatible with most 20 gauge shotguns, and the 7/8 oz payload provides ample shot density for effective patterns. #5 steel shot is a good compromise for pheasant and quail, providing sufficient energy and pattern density. The 1500 ft/s muzzle velocity is important because it ensures that the shot reaches the target quickly, maintaining energy and reducing lead.
Performance & Functionality
The Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load performs admirably in its intended role of upland bird hunting. It delivers consistent patterns, sufficient knock-down power, and reliable cycling in semi-automatic shotguns. It excels in the field.
The load’s strengths lie in its consistent patterns and relatively high velocity, allowing for ethical and effective shots at reasonable ranges. One weakness is its price point, which is slightly higher than some other steel loads. The shells are very effective at what they were designed to do.
The Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load meets my expectations for a reliable, non-toxic upland load. I have no qualms about recommending it to other hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load is straightforward and functional. The plastic hulls are well-constructed, and the crimps are consistent and tight. They are clearly designed to perform.
The shells are easy to handle and load, and their weight is typical for a 20 gauge load. There is no significant learning curve associated with using these shells. They are designed for ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load is designed for single-use, but the quality of the components suggests good durability. The plastic hulls appear to be resistant to cracking or deformation, even in cold weather. I fully expect these shells to last the duration of a hunt.
Maintenance is minimal, as the clean-burning powder reduces the need for frequent cleaning of the shotgun. A standard cleaning regimen should suffice. I have had no issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load itself does not have accessories, but its performance can be optimized by choosing the appropriate choke for your shotgun. I personally use a modified choke for most upland hunting situations. The ability to fine-tune the performance using various chokes gives the user options.
These shells are compatible with any 20 gauge shotgun designed to handle 2 3/4 inch shells and steel shot. There are no restrictions.
Pros and Cons of **Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition
K202US24-5 $1.60 Off**
Pros
- Consistent patterns: Delivers tight, even patterns for effective shots.
- High velocity: Provides sufficient energy and reduces lead.
- Clean-burning powder: Minimizes cleaning requirements.
- Reliable cycling: Functions flawlessly in semi-automatic shotguns.
- Ethical and non-toxic: Suitable for areas with non-toxic shot regulations.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other steel loads.
- Recoil: Noticeably more recoil than lead loads (though manageable).
Who Should Buy **Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition
K202US24-5 $1.60 Off**?
The Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load is perfect for upland bird hunters who require non-toxic shot and demand reliable performance. It is also a good choice for those who use semi-automatic shotguns and value clean-burning ammunition. Hunters will greatly benefit from this product.
Hunters on a very tight budget might want to consider cheaper steel loads, although they may sacrifice some performance and reliability. Those who are extremely sensitive to recoil may want to look for specialized low-recoil loads. If you reload your own ammunition, this product isn’t for you.
A good quality choke tube designed for steel shot is a must-have accessory to optimize the performance of the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load. No modifications are necessary.
Conclusion on **Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition
K202US24-5 $1.60 Off**
The Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load 20 Gauge 7/8oz 2.75” 5 Shot Size Shotgun Ammunition K202US24-5 $1.60 Off is a solid choice for upland bird hunters seeking a reliable, non-toxic load. It offers a good balance of performance, value, and ethical considerations. This is a great product.
While the price is slightly higher than some alternatives, the consistent patterns, clean-burning powder, and reliable cycling make it a worthwhile investment. The slightly higher price is worth the added performance.
I would personally recommend the Kent Cartridge Upland Fasteel Load to any upland bird hunter who needs to use steel shot. Give them a try!