Alright guys...you all seem like-minded on using sabots instead of foster-type slugs. I'll go with them in spite of the cost. I also didn't realize the additional cleaning required with foster-types and like BOWFANATIC said, could even ruin the barrel rifleing.

That said, how many shots to you all take at a target to determine if a certain brand of ammo shoots well out of your gun? My guess, and TAZMAN alluded to it, was to shoot X number of shots at a target and look for repeatable shots, not necessarily on the bullseye, but repeatable. If one brand is not repeatable (i.e. all over the place on the target), try another brand. Once honed in on a repeatable brand for my gun, sight the gun in for accuracy (near the bullseye). Is this logical?

Also, where do you start? 25 yards? 50 yards? Should I zero at 50 yards considering my novice skill level and rifle sights? Anyone willing to share their "procedure" on how they do this?

I'm going to try 2 3/4 sabot loads from Remington, Winchester, Federal, and Lightfield. I'll start with the cheaper of the four (Lightfields?) and hope for some repeatable shots.

Again, thanks for your responses! You all have really helped.