Cartridge Shot Sizes Explained – Best Options for Clay Shooting (2026)

Shotgun Cartridge Shot Sizes Explained – Best Options for Clay Shooting (2026)

When buying clay cartridges in the UK, one of the first things you will notice is the shot size printed on the box. Numbers such as 7, 7.5 and 8 can be confusing at first, especially for new shooters. In this guide, we explain what shot sizes mean, how they affect performance, and which options work best for different types of clay shooting.

What Is "Shot Size"?

Shot size refers to the diameter of the individual pellets inside a shotgun cartridge. The numbering system works in reverse, meaning the smaller the number, the larger the pellets. Larger pellets tend to hold energy better at distance, while smaller pellets give you more pellets in the air and a denser pattern.

For most clay shooting in the UK, the common shot sizes you will come across are 7, 7.5, 8 and 9. You will also see size 6 from time to time, usually for longer or tougher presentations.

In simple terms:

• Smaller number = bigger pellets and more punch

• Bigger number = smaller pellets and more pattern density

What Does “Load” Mean?

Load is the weight of shot inside the cartridge, usually shown in grams, for example 21g, 24g or 28g. It does not mean the pellets fly further on its own. What it usually changes is how many pellets you are sending downrange, and how comfortable it feels over a long session.

A lighter load can feel softer and quicker to shoot, but you have fewer pellets in the pattern. A heavier load gives you more pellets and can add a bit of margin on longer targets, but it may feel snappier depending on the cartridge and your gun.

Why Shot Size Matters for Clay Shooting

Choosing the right shot size can make a noticeable difference to how consistently you break clays. Larger pellets can be useful when targets are stretching out, while smaller pellets can help on close or fast targets because the pattern is typically denser.

Most UK shooters end up on a sensible middle ground, which is why sizes 7.5 and 8 are so common for Sporting and general practice.

Size 6 – When You Need Extra Punch

Size 6 is less common for everyday clay shooting, but it does show up, usually when a ground has longer crossers, tall driven birds, or presentations that feel more like live quarry distances. The pellets are larger and carry energy well, which can help on tougher clays further out.

The trade-off is that you get fewer pellets in the pattern compared with 7 or 7.5. That means you may need a bit more accuracy and good gun movement. If you want to try size 6, it is worth patterning it and using it where it makes sense, rather than as an all day choice.

Size 7 – Strong Performance at Longer Range

Shot size 7 uses larger pellets and is often chosen for Sporting layouts where targets are presented further out. The added pellet energy can help on longer crossers and higher birds where you want reliable breaks.

The trade-off is a slightly less dense pattern compared with smaller shot sizes. Many experienced shooters like 7 for longer stands, but it is not always the most forgiving option on close, quick targets.

Size 7.5 – The All Round Favourite

Size 7.5 is widely regarded as the best all round shot size for UK clay shooting. It balances pellet energy with pattern density, which is why it works across Sporting, Trap and general practice.

If you are unsure what to buy, 7.5 is usually a safe choice. It is widely stocked, consistent across brands, and suits most typical club targets.

Size 8 – Forgiving and Beginner Friendly

Size 8 shot gives you more pellets in the cartridge, which usually means a denser pattern. That extra pattern density can feel more forgiving on close to mid range targets, which is why many shooting schools suggest it for newer shooters.

Paired with a lighter load, size 8 can also be comfortable for longer sessions, especially when you are learning and shooting a lot of targets in a day.

Size 9 – Mainly for Skeet and Very Close Targets

Size 9 is made up of very small pellets and is mostly used for skeet or very close targets. The pattern can be very dense, which helps you connect quickly at short range.

On longer Sporting targets, size 9 can run out of steam, so it is not as common for general clay practice unless the targets are consistently close.

Which Shot Size Should You Choose?

• For beginners and closer targets: Size 8 is forgiving and widely available.

• For most Sporting and general club shooting: Size 7.5 is the best all round choice.

• For longer targets: Size 7 gives you more punch at distance.

• For specialist longer birds: Size 6 can work, but it is less forgiving.

Does Shot Size Affect Recoil?

Shot size itself does not drive recoil in a simple way. Recoil is influenced more by the total load weight, velocity, and how the cartridge is built. In practice, lighter loads often feel softer, especially over a long session.

A good beginner setup is often 21g or 24g with size 8 or 7.5. If you move up to 28g, you may gain more pellets in the pattern, but it can feel more tiring across 100 clays, depending on your gun fit and technique.

Finding the Right Cartridges Near You

Shot size availability and prices can vary from one gunroom to another. Some places stock a wide spread of loads and brands, while others focus on a few popular options. Checking locally can help you find better value and try something new without guessing.

Final Thoughts

Understanding shot sizes is one of the easiest ways to improve your clay shooting experience. For most UK shooters, size 7.5 or 8 will cover the majority of situations. Once you are comfortable, experimenting with 7 or even 6 on longer targets can be a useful next step, especially if your local ground regularly pushes the distance.