Which of the following is NOT a factor evaluated when patterning shotgun loads?

• A. Load
• B. Choke
• C. Pellet color
• D. Technique

Answer: (C)

Patterning shotgun loads looks at how the chosen load and the shooter’s method influence where pellets land at a given distance. The load determines how many and what size pellets are in the shell, which directly affects the density of the pattern. The choke changes the constriction of the barrel, shaping how widely the pellets spread as they exit. The shooter’s technique—stance, sight alignment, trigger control, and follow-through—affects consistency and accuracy, which in turn alters the observed pattern. Pellet color, on the other hand, is cosmetic and does not change pellet mass, velocity, or flight characteristics, so it does not influence the pellet pattern.