i used to use lead shot. till i started seeing patterns of hevishot. i didnt want to extend my range much..just wanted to ensure good solid kills. i switched to a HS undertaker hevishot tube and remingtons highvelocity hevi shot in #6. the pattern is amazing. i cant give all the credit to hevi shot though. the choke now shoots lead and copper plated lead very very well. but hevishot does pattern better. and hits alot harder. the pellets blow right through my wooden pallets i use as a target board. lead and copper plated generally doesnt. since remington quit making their loads i switched to Hevi 13. supposed to be the same thing. i got a 5 box of #5s..see how that patterns in march or april. Enviro metal(makers of hevi13) say its ok to shoot hevishot from any choke tube their are still alot of makers making hevishot tubes. dont know if they are needed or not..but i use one just to cover my butt