Does Steel Shot Damage Shotgun Barrels?
When it comes to choosing the right shotgun ammunition, hunters and shooters often face a dilemma: should they opt for steel shot or lead shot? While lead shot has been the traditional choice for decades, steel shot has gained popularity in recent years due to its non-toxic and environmentally friendly properties. However, some shooters are concerned that steel shot may damage their shotgun barrels. In this article, we’ll delve into the topic and provide a direct answer to the question: does steel shot damage shotgun barrels?
What is Steel Shot?
Before we dive into the potential damage caused by steel shot, let’s first understand what it is. Steel shot is a type of shotgun ammunition made from steel pellets instead of lead. These pellets are designed to be more durable and resistant to corrosion than lead shot, making them a popular choice for waterfowl hunting. Steel shot is also non-toxic and environmentally friendly, which is a significant advantage over lead shot.
Does Steel Shot Damage Shotgun Barrels?
So, does steel shot damage shotgun barrels? The short answer is: it can. However, the extent of the damage depends on several factors, including the type of steel shot used, the quality of the shotgun barrel, and the frequency of use.
Types of Steel Shot
There are two main types of steel shot: plated and non-plated. Plated steel shot is coated with a thin layer of copper or zinc to reduce the risk of corrosion and improve durability. Non-plated steel shot, on the other hand, is not coated and is more prone to corrosion.
Corrosion and Barrel Damage
Corrosion is a major concern when it comes to steel shot and shotgun barrels. Non-plated steel shot can cause corrosion on the barrel’s surface, which can lead to damage and potentially even penetration. Plated steel shot, while less corrosive, can still cause damage if the plating wears off over time.
Factors Affecting Barrel Damage
Several factors can affect the extent of barrel damage caused by steel shot:
• Quality of the shotgun barrel: A high-quality barrel made from durable materials like stainless steel or chrome-moly is less likely to be damaged by steel shot.
• Frequency of use: Shooting steel shot frequently can increase the risk of barrel damage, especially if the barrel is not properly cleaned and maintained.
• Type of steel shot used: Non-plated steel shot is more likely to cause corrosion and damage than plated steel shot.
• Cleaning and maintenance: Failing to properly clean and maintain the shotgun barrel can increase the risk of corrosion and damage.
Preventing Barrel Damage
To prevent barrel damage caused by steel shot, follow these tips:
• Use plated steel shot: Choose plated steel shot to reduce the risk of corrosion and damage.
• Clean the barrel regularly: Clean the barrel after each use to prevent corrosion and damage.
• Use a corrosion-inhibiting cleaning solution: Use a cleaning solution specifically designed to prevent corrosion.
• Dry the barrel thoroughly: Dry the barrel thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup.
• Store the shotgun properly: Store the shotgun in a dry, secure location to prevent damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while steel shot can damage shotgun barrels, the extent of the damage depends on several factors, including the type of steel shot used, the quality of the shotgun barrel, and the frequency of use. By choosing plated steel shot, cleaning and maintaining the barrel regularly, and following proper storage procedures, shooters can minimize the risk of barrel damage.
