Estate Cartridge Company – Super Sport: A Review
As an avid shooter, I’ve had the pleasure of putting the Estate Cartridge Company’s Super Sport to the test. With its reputation for excellent performance and reliability, I was excited to see how it would perform in the field. In this review, I’ll delve into the details of my experience with this 12-gauge shotgun shell, highlighting its pros and cons.
First Impressions
When I received the Super Sport shells, I was immediately impressed by their packaging and quality. The shells were neatly arranged in a compact, reloader-friendly box, making it easy to access and store them. The shell itself felt sturdy, with a smooth, even finish and a clear designation of gauge, load, and shot type.
Performance in the Field
I started by testing the Super Sport in my trusty shotgun, a Remington 887 Tactical 1. Here are my key observations:
• Pattern density and spread: On a moderate-sized target, the Super Sport delivered a tight, even pattern with a 20% deviation from the center. The shot seemed to spread out evenly, covering the entire target with a moderate amount of shot left in the center.
• Terminal velocity and penetration: The 2 ¾” shell consistently delivered a solid, one-shot stop on paper targets and game-sized cans. The 1 oz shot load allowed for adequate penetration without over-penetration, making it suitable for various quarry.
• Muzzle velocity and report: The Super Sport had a moderate cannelure, which helped reduce muzzle jump and flinching. The report was loud, but not overwhelming, making it suitable for target shooters and hunting enthusiasts.
Consistency and Reliability
Here are the Cons:
• Choke dependency: The Super Sport, like any other shotgun shell, requires a suitable choke to perform optimally. Without a proper choke, the pattern suffers, and performance is compromised.
• Limited accessibility: As a lower-end, more budget-friendly option, the Super Sport might be harder to find in local retailers, relying more on online availability.
• Not ideal for the tightest, most distant targets: While the Super Sport performed well, it’s not designed for extreme long-range shooting. For ultra-long-range, a higher-performance load with a more precise, targeted pattern is recommended.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Estate Cartridge Company’s Super Sport delivered an impressive performance for its price range. While it’s not perfect, its balance of power, accuracy, and reliability make it an excellent choice for target shooters and hunting enthusiasts. With proper shot selection and a suitable choke, the Super Sport has the potential to be a reliable, go-to option for various shooting situations.
Recommendation
For a more detailed review, I’d like to recommend the following shooting scenarios and situations:
- Target shooting: Ideal for target shooting on moderate distances (< 40 yards), the Super Sport’s performance will do justice to your marksmanship.
- Hunting: Suitable for hunting game such as ducks, geese, and turkeys, the Super Sport will provide a solid, one-shot stop and some extra margin for the occasional near-miss.
- Competitive shooting: While not the best choice for professional-level competitions, the Super Sport can still serve as a reliable, budget-friendly option for recreational matches or casual competitions.
Final Verdict
In summary, the Estate Cartridge Company’s Super Sport is a solid, budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable, high-performance shotshell. While it may not be the best choice for every situation, the Super Sport proved to be a trusty sidekick for a variety of shooting applications. I’m happy to recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable, all-around shotgun shell at an affordable price.
