That target of mine is with the "chilled" type lead shot. The key after practicing with loads it to pack it tight as hell to the point where the ram rod feels like it will break. I can get it to where it almost hits like a slug. I truly believe that the shot is staying in the cup longer upon exit and it holds a pattern tighter than no other I've seen. Load your powder, then ram the empty cup home, load your shot and pack the shot with the ram rod, then add your wad and pack it tight as mentioned. The gun shoots well this way. I can "feel" with the ram rod how tight it is then I know I'm good to go. The Hevi shot is expensive so I went cheap. All I can say is this works wonders in my gun and I must be lucky. Others have tried and have had so so results. All you can do with a gun like this is try all you can as we all know every gun is different. Longest birdI took was lasered at 62 yards and yesI practiced at that distance many times. This is one hell of a gun and I would recommend it to any one looking for a fun 12 ga blackpowder smokepole canon.