First Impressions of Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off
Dove hunting is a cherished tradition for many, demanding reliable ammunition to meet the challenge of fast-flying birds. The Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off promises heavier payloads and higher velocity, specifically designed for those challenging shots at greater distances. Kent Sporting Goods claims that its proprietary Diamond Shot ensures unmatched uniformity for consistently tight patterns, suggesting enhanced performance in the field.
My quest for the perfect dove load has been ongoing, always searching for the ideal balance of power, pattern density, and affordability. I was particularly intrigued by the promise of tighter patterns from the Diamond Shot, hoping it would translate to more clean kills and fewer wounded birds.
Upon receiving the shells, the packaging felt solid and practical, nothing fancy, just straightforward and functional. The shells themselves appeared well-made, with a consistent crimp and clean appearance. I noticed the distinct look of the shot, it looked almost polished as Kent Sporting Goods advertised. Compared to my usual Winchester AA or Remington ShurShot loads, the Kent Sporting Goods shells immediately presented a different aesthetic. I chose these over my usual because of the promise of tighter patterns and the reduced price was certainly attractive.
Initially, I was excited by the potential for improved performance, yet cautiously optimistic. The proof, as always, would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell was during an early-season dove hunt in central Texas. The weather was typical for the area: hot, dry, and dusty. I used them through my trusty Benelli Montefeltro, a lightweight and reliable 12-gauge known for its smooth cycling.
The shells cycled flawlessly through the Benelli, and the recoil felt manageable, perhaps a bit more pronounced than my standard target loads. I did notice that the shells seemed to burn cleaner than some cheaper brands, with less noticeable residue in the action.
However, I did have a few early misses that day. I initially chalked it up to my own rustiness, but after a while, I started to question if I should pattern the shells at the range later.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use across multiple dove hunts, my initial impressions solidified. The shells remained reliable in terms of cycling and ignition. The shells performed consistently over time, though pattern variations were apparent during the second range visit.
I’ve noticed some slight discoloration on the shell casings after being exposed to moisture in my vest for extended periods, but nothing that appears to affect performance. Cleaning my shotgun after each hunt has been straightforward, with no unusual residue build-up.
Compared to my previous favorite, the Winchester AA, the Kent shells presented a trade-off. The Kent shells do not seem to outperform the AA shells in terms of pure accuracy, but they are a good option for the cost.
Breaking Down the Features of Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off
Specifications
The Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off features a 12-gauge, 2 ¾-inch shell loaded with 1 1/8 oz of #7.5 lead shot. The muzzle velocity is rated at 1250 ft/s, making it a relatively fast load suitable for longer shots. The shot is Kent Sporting Goods’ proprietary Diamond Shot, which is supposed to be harder and more uniform than standard lead.
These specifications translate to a load that packs a decent punch and has enough speed to reach out to those typically longer dove shots. The 7.5 shot size is a common and effective choice for dove, offering a good balance of pellet count and energy transfer.
Performance & Functionality
The Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell generally performs well in the field, delivering adequate energy for clean kills on dove within reasonable ranges (out to 40 yards). The higher velocity can be advantageous when birds are flying fast or at greater distances.
The primary strength lies in its consistency in cycling through semi-automatic shotguns and its relatively clean burn. While the “Diamond Shot” may offer some benefits in pattern density, it may not consistently outperform premium target loads in that regard.
The Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell shells meet expectations as a solid dove load for average to above-average shots.
Design & Ergonomics
The shells are standard 2 ¾-inch length, making them compatible with virtually all 12-gauge shotguns. The plastic hull is typical of modern shotshells and feels durable enough to withstand normal handling.
The crimp is well-formed, ensuring proper ignition and consistent pressures. There isn’t anything particularly groundbreaking about the design, it is designed to be ergonomic for the price.
Durability & Maintenance
Shotshells are generally not designed for extended storage in harsh conditions, and the Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell is no exception. The plastic hulls are water-resistant to a degree, but prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to corrosion of the lead shot and degradation of the powder.
Maintaining the shells is a matter of proper storage in a cool, dry place. Cleaning your shotgun after use is recommended to remove any residue and prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
Shotshells themselves do not have accessories in the traditional sense, but the effectiveness of any shotshell can be influenced by the choke used in your shotgun. Experimenting with different chokes (improved cylinder, modified, full) can help optimize your pattern for specific distances and hunting conditions.
The Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell is compatible with any standard 12-gauge shotgun and can be used with a variety of chokes. There are no brand-specific accessories required or available for this type of product.
Pros and Cons of Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off
Pros
- Reliable cycling in semi-automatic shotguns.
- Clean burning powder reduces residue.
- Good velocity for longer shots.
- Diamond Shot promotes tighter patterns at reasonable cost
- Affordable price point makes it a good value for high-volume shooting.
Cons
- Recoil is slightly more noticeable than lighter target loads.
- Pattern consistency may not always match premium target loads.
Who Should Buy Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off?
The Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell is perfect for dove hunters who want a reliable and affordable load for high-volume shooting. It is also suitable for those seeking a slightly faster load for longer shots.
This product might not be the best choice for competitive shooters who demand the absolute tightest patterns and lowest recoil. Also, hunters who prioritize premium components and maximum knock-down power may prefer more expensive loads.
Must-have accessories include a quality choke set to optimize patterns for different distances and hunting conditions.
Conclusion on Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off
Overall, the Kent Sporting Goods Diamond Dove Shotshell 2 12 Gauge 1 1/8 oz 3/4 in Shotgun Ammunition K12HD32-7.5 23% Off offers a solid value proposition for dove hunters. It provides reliable performance, clean burning powder, and good velocity at an affordable price.
The reduced price of these shells certainly justified their purchase. I would personally recommend this product to most dove hunters looking for a dependable and cost-effective option.
Consider adding this to your kit for the next dove season for a quality shot.