Obviously, a HS load compared to any other lead shot of the same size will outperform the lead, because of the difference in density, which also translates into more inertia, simply meaning that it is harder to stop. My question is, does #7 HS outperform a #5 lead shot for long distances..? Because that is what many people are claiming, and it MAY be true. But it also may not be. My reasoning is that the #7 will pattern better but will they still have enough energy to perform as well as the #5's would? The HS probably makes up for the fact that the #7s would be smaller BB's but even then, if it does perform the same, or even a bit better, is that small gain worth an extra $5 per shot?