Trap shooting, a popular discipline within clay pigeon shooting, requires precision, skill, and the right equipment—especially when it comes to shotgun shells. The choice of the shell can influence a shooter’s performance significantly. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert in trap shooting, understanding which shells to stock in your shooting bag is crucial for those serious about their scores. Experts have weighed in and provided their top picks for the best shells designed specifically for trap shooting.

First on the list is the Winchester AA series. Renowned for their consistency and a favorite among competitive shooters, these shells come with a proven track record. The Winchester AA Heavy Target Load is particularly lauded for its pattern density and recoil, making it an excellent choice for shooters who spend long periods at the range.

Remington’s STS Plastic Shotshells are next up. They provide reliable performance and are often selected by shooters who demand high-quality components. STS stands for “Shoot, Target, Shoot,” reflecting the shell’s design focus on target shooting sports. These shells are known for outstanding consistency from shot to shot, a must-have feature for trap shooters.

Third on the experts’ list is Federal Premium’s Gold Medal line of shotgun ammunition. These shells are synonymous with winning competitions. Equipped with extra-hard shot and Federal’s exclusive soft column wad, Gold Medal shells provide superior accuracy and a gentle recoil—both desirable traits in competitive trap shooting.

The Estate Cartridge Super Sport Competition Load also makes the cut, offering both value and performance. While sometimes overlooked because of its lower price point, these shells deliver a strong and consistent performance that makes them suitable for both practice sessions and competition rounds.

Lastly, Fiocchi’s Shooting Dynamics Trap Shotshells should not be forgotten. Well-balanced with high-quality primers and powder, these shells offer both reliability and affordability—a combination that appeals to many shooters who go through large volumes of ammunition.

These expert top picks highlight that the best shell for trap shooting comes down to individual preference and what best matches one’s shooting style. As such, experimenting with different brands and loads is encouraged to find what works best on an individual level.

A savvy trap shooter will keep an eye on how different shells perform in terms of recoil management, pattern consistency, and overall accuracy across varied conditions. Remember that while ammunition plays an important role in trap shooting success; practice remains paramount in mastering this challenging sport. Whether you’re participating in local league shootouts or aiming for national titles, loading up with any of these top-rated shells will ensure your shotgun is well-fed with quality ammo designed to smash clays out of the sky.