shotgun ammunition is available in various configurations, with each component playing a vital role in determining the performance and effectiveness of the load. One such aspect is the "dram," a unit of measurement that refers to the powder charge or propellant in a shotgun shell. In this blog post, we will delve into the meaning of drams in shotgun ammo and explore the different types and their specific uses for hunting, clay target sports, and other shooting applications.
Decoding Drams in Shotgun Ammo
Dram is an archaic unit of measurement used in shotgun ammunition to indicate the powder charge's volume. It was originally derived from the old black powder days when black powder was the standard propellant for firearms. Today, modern shotgun powders are measured in grains, but the term "dram" persists as a reference to the powder charge volume in a shotgun shell.Types of Drams in Shotgun Ammo
There are primarily two types of drams used in shotgun ammo:Black Powder Drams (bpd):
- Black powder drams refer to the original unit of measurement used in shotgun ammunition when black powder was the primary propellant.
- Black powder drams are not commonly used in modern shotgun ammunition, but they may still be found in some vintage or specialty loads.
Smokeless Powder Drams (spd):
- Smokeless powder drams represent the volume of smokeless powder used in a shotgun shell.
- Smokeless powder is the standard propellant in modern shotgun ammunition due to its cleaner burning and more consistent performance.
Different Dram Weights and Their Uses
The dram weight influences the velocity and power of the shot charge, which, in turn, affects the effective range and pellet energy. Here are the common dram weights and their typical uses:Low Dram Loads (e.g., 2 ½, 2 ¾):
- Low dram loads are known for their light recoil and reduced muzzle velocity.
- These loads are ideal for new shooters, youth shooters, and those sensitive to recoil.
- They are commonly used for recreational shooting, close-range target practice, and introductory hunting experiences.
Standard Dram Loads (e.g., 3, 3 ¼):
- Standard dram loads strike a balance between recoil management and pellet energy.
- These loads are versatile and widely used for various shooting applications, including upland bird hunting, clay target sports, and general shooting activities.
High Dram Loads (e.g., 3 ½, 4):
- High dram loads deliver increased pellet energy and muzzle velocity.
- They are preferred for longer-range shooting, waterfowl hunting, and pursuing larger game animals, such as turkey or big game.
Considerations for Selecting Drams
When choosing the right dram load for your shotgun, consider the following factors:- Shooting Application: Determine whether you'll be hunting, participating in clay target sports, or engaging in general shooting activities.
- Recoil Sensitivity: Consider your comfort level with recoil and select a dram load that allows for enjoyable shooting experiences.
- Effective Range: Match the dram load to the typical shooting distances you'll encounter during your chosen shooting pursuits.
- Game or Target Size: Select a dram load that provides sufficient pellet energy for the game or targets you intend to shoot.
