Why do hunters pattern their shotguns before a hunt?

Patterning a shotgun is crucial for ensuring that a hunter knows how the shotgun behaves with specific ammunition. By shooting at a target with various types of ammunition, hunters can observe the spread and impact patterns of the shot. This helps them determine which ammunition provides the best performance in terms of accuracy and pattern density for the type of game they will be hunting.

Selecting the right ammunition is pivotal because different loads can have varying effects on shot spread, which directly influences a hunter's success during a hunt. The ability to reliably hit a target is determined not just by skill but also by understanding how their chosen ammunition performs with their specific firearm.

While practicing shooting, impressing fellow hunters, and maintaining a clean firearm are all valuable aspects of hunting preparation, they are not the primary reasons for patterning a shotgun before a hunt. The main goal is to establish the optimal ammunition for improved performance in the field.