Let’s Dive into Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in
The Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in is a shell designed to deliver devastating performance on waterfowl. Winchester has packed this shell with innovative features like Hex steel shot and a Diamond Cut wad, aiming to provide hunters with superior knockdown power and consistent patterns. Having spent years in the field chasing ducks and geese, I’m always looking for an edge, a load that can consistently bring down birds, even in challenging conditions.
My pursuit of a better waterfowl load began after too many frustrating hunts where birds were wounded but not downed cleanly. I was specifically seeking a shell that could offer both increased pellet count and enhanced trauma, leading me to explore the claims surrounding the Winchester Blind Side. The promise of a tighter pattern and faster kills resonated with my desire for ethical and efficient hunting.
The packaging itself is standard fare, but opening it revealed the distinctive, almost menacing look of the Hex shot. The shells felt well-constructed, and the crimp was tight and uniform, a sign of quality control. I immediately noticed the heft of the 3.5-inch shell, indicating a substantial payload.
Compared to my usual go-to, the Federal Black Cloud, the Winchester Blind Side seemed to offer a different approach. While Black Cloud focuses on Flitecontrol wad technology, Blind Side emphasizes the unique shape and density of its Hex shot. I also considered the Remington HyperSonic Steel, known for its velocity, but the Blind Side’s promise of increased trauma intrigued me more.
My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic; I’ve seen plenty of marketing hype in the hunting world. However, the innovative Hex shot design and Winchester’s reputation piqued my interest, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the claims. The anticipation of testing its performance in the field fueled my enthusiasm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Winchester Blind Side came during a late-season goose hunt on a frigid December morning. We were hunting over decoys in a harvested cornfield, facing a stiff wind and single-digit temperatures. I ran the shells through my Benelli Super Black Eagle II, a reliable workhorse known for cycling even the heaviest loads.
The conditions were tough, with geese hanging up on the edge of the decoys and requiring longer shots than usual. The Blind Side performed admirably, delivering consistent patterns out to 40 yards. I cleanly downed two geese with single shots, and witnessed a noticeable impact on the birds.
The shells cycled smoothly through my Benelli, and recoil, while significant in the 3.5-inch version, was manageable. I did notice a slightly louder report compared to my usual loads, likely due to the high velocity. There were no malfunctions or failures to eject, which is crucial in a fast-paced hunting scenario.
After the first hunt, I was impressed but wanted to see how the Blind Side performed in a wider range of situations. I remained cautiously optimistic, as one successful hunt doesn’t guarantee consistent performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Winchester Blind Side in various waterfowl hunting scenarios, I’ve formed a solid opinion. The shells have proven to be reliable and effective across different weather conditions, from wet and windy days to crisp, clear mornings. The performance remained consistent, with tight patterns and noticeable knockdown power on both ducks and geese.
I’ve observed minimal signs of wear and tear on the unfired shells, even after being stored in less-than-ideal conditions (i.e., the bottom of my blind bag). The Drylok Super Steel System seems to be doing its job, preventing moisture from affecting the powder. Cleaning my shotgun after using the Blind Side was no different than with other steel loads; standard cleaning solvents and brushes were sufficient.
Compared to my previous experiences with other premium waterfowl loads, the Winchester Blind Side stands out for its consistent patterning and enhanced trauma. While the Federal Black Cloud still offers a unique advantage in terms of wad technology, the Blind Side’s Hex shot delivers a different but equally effective result. The Blind Side seems to consistently outperform standard steel loads, especially at longer ranges.
Breaking Down the Features of Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in
Specifications
The Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in is a high-performance waterfowl load designed for maximum effectiveness. It features several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance.
- Caliber: 12 Gauge – A standard shotgun caliber, widely used for waterfowl hunting.
- Shell Length: 3.5 inches – Provides a larger payload for increased pellet count and range.
- Shot Weight: 1 3/8 oz – Offers a balance between pellet density and manageable recoil.
- Shot Type: Hex Steel – Six-sided, multi-edged steel shot designed for increased trauma.
- Wad: Diamond Cut Wad – Maximizes pattern performance and increases kill zone.
- System: Drylok Super Steel System – Seals out water and moisture for consistent performance.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shell’s ability to deliver consistent patterns, penetrate feathers, and transfer energy to the target. The Hex steel shot is particularly noteworthy, as its unique shape is intended to create a more devastating wound channel. The Diamond Cut Wad is crucial for keeping the Hex shot together during flight, resulting in tighter groupings at longer distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a waterfowl hunting load. It delivers consistent patterns, reliable cycling, and noticeable knockdown power.
The strengths of this shell lie in its consistent patterning and the increased trauma delivered by the Hex steel shot. At typical waterfowl hunting ranges (30-40 yards), the patterns are tight and dense, ensuring multiple pellets strike the target. The Hex shot seems to inflict significant damage, resulting in faster, cleaner kills.
One area for potential improvement is recoil; the 3.5-inch version can be punishing, especially in lighter shotguns. While manageable, it might be a concern for smaller-framed shooters. Overall, the Winchester Blind Side meets and often exceeds expectations for a premium waterfowl load.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Winchester Blind Side focuses on functionality and performance rather than aesthetics. The shells are well-constructed, with a tight crimp and durable hull.
The Drylok Super Steel System is a thoughtful design element, ensuring the powder remains dry even in wet conditions. The shell’s weight is noticeable, especially in the 3.5-inch variant, but it contributes to the increased payload and range. There’s no significant learning curve associated with using this shell; it performs as expected in any standard 12-gauge shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
The Winchester Blind Side shells appear to be durable and well-constructed, capable of withstanding typical hunting conditions. The Drylok Super Steel System should contribute to their longevity, preventing moisture damage and corrosion.
Maintaining the shotgun after using these shells is no different than with other steel loads; standard cleaning procedures are sufficient. With proper storage and care, these shells should last for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories are included directly with the Winchester Blind Side shells, as they are a consumable product. However, their performance can be enhanced by using them in conjunction with aftermarket chokes designed for steel shot.
Many hunters find that using a specialized steel shot choke can improve pattern density and range. The shells are compatible with any 12-gauge shotgun designed to handle 3.5-inch shells and steel shot. There are no specific modifications needed to use this ammunition.
Pros and Cons of Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in
Pros
- Consistent Patterns: The Diamond Cut Wad and Hex shot work together to deliver tight, reliable patterns at typical waterfowl hunting ranges.
- Enhanced Trauma: The six-sided Hex steel shot creates a more devastating wound channel, resulting in faster, cleaner kills.
- Reliable Performance: The Drylok Super Steel System ensures consistent ignition and velocity, even in wet conditions.
- Increased Pellet Count: High packing density means 15% more pellets.
- Proven Knockdown Power: This is devastating on waterfowl.
Cons
- Recoil: The 3.5-inch version produces significant recoil, which may be uncomfortable for some shooters.
- Price: Winchester Blind Side is a premium load, and the cost per shell is higher than standard steel loads.
Who Should Buy Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in?
The Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in is perfect for experienced waterfowl hunters who demand maximum performance and are willing to pay a premium for it. It’s also a good choice for hunters who frequently encounter longer shots or challenging hunting conditions.
This shell is ideal for those who prioritize clean kills and ethical hunting practices. Hunters who are recoil-sensitive or primarily hunt over very close decoys might consider other options. A quality aftermarket choke designed for steel shot is a must-have accessory to maximize the Blind Side’s performance.
Conclusion on Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in
The Winchester Blind Side 12 Gauge 1 3/8 oz 3.5in is a top-tier waterfowl load that delivers on its promises of consistent patterns, enhanced trauma, and reliable performance. While the recoil and price point may be a deterrent for some, the benefits it offers in terms of knockdown power and ethical kills make it a worthwhile investment for serious waterfowl hunters.
The price is justified given the innovative Hex shot technology and the consistent performance it provides. I would personally recommend the Winchester Blind Side to any waterfowl hunter looking for an edge in the field. Upgrade your hunt and experience the devastating power of Winchester Blind Side.