
Fibre vs Plastic Wads: What UK Shooters Need to Know
Fibre vs Plastic Wads?
Plastic wads have been around for decades, known for their tight patterns and consistent performance. But the conversation has shifted. With increased environmental awareness and changing ground policies, fibre wads are becoming more common. So what’s the real difference, and does it matter? This guide breaks it down for UK shooters.
What Exactly Is a Wad?
The wad is a small but vital part of any shotgun cartridge. It sits between the powder and the shot, helping to build pressure and protect the pellets. Fibre wads are typically made from biodegradable felt or card, while plastic wads form a cup to hold the shot tighter together, ideal for keeping patterns consistent at range.
Want to actually see the difference between wad types? This short video from The Shooting Channel gives a clear view on fibre and plastic wads.
Fibre vs Plastic at a Glance:
• Fibre wads biodegrade naturally; plastic ones don’t
• Plastic tends to deliver tighter patterns, especially at longer range
• Many UK clay grounds now require fibre wads
• Fibre may leave more residue in the barrel, but it’s easily cleaned
Why Fibre Wads Are Taking Over
At many clubs, especially those in rural or livestock-rich areas, plastic wads are being phased out. They’re hard to recover, don’t break down, and often end up littering hedgerows, fields, and woodland. In response, a growing number of shooting grounds now specify fibre-only cartridges as part of their ground rules.
Plastic wad usage in the UK:
In the last 0 seconds, shooters likely fired 0 plastic wads.
- Equal to 0.0 kg of plastic waste.
- Laid end to end, that’s about 0.0 double-decker buses long.
- Cleanup cost: ÂŁ0.00 (est. from UK litter cleanup sources)
Most of these wads will remain in the environment for 400+ years.
Do Fibre Wads Affect Performance?
Not in the way they used to. While plastic wads still offer slightly tighter patterns, especially beyond 40 yards, modern fibre loads have come a long way. At typical Sporting and Skeet distances (under 35 yards), most shooters won’t notice any practical difference.
If you’re breaking clays at a local club, practising with an instructor, or just enjoying a weekend round, fibre loads will perform just fine.
Will Fibre Wads Damage My Gun or Choke Performance?
No. Fibre-wad cartridges are safe for all standard and backbored guns. They might produce a softer “pop” compared to plastic, but this is just a difference in sound, not pressure or performance. Some shooters opt to go up a choke size to compensate slightly, but it’s a personal preference rather than a requirement.
What About Cost?
There used to be a price difference, but in 2025, fibre and plastic loads are often comparable, sometimes even in fibre’s favour. And for just a few extra pence per shot, fibre’s environmental benefit is hard to argue with.
- Hull Comp X 21g Fibre: £75–80
- Gamebore Evo 24g Fibre: £85–90
- Eley Select 28g Fibre: £73–78
The Future of Plastic Wads in the UK
Plastic wads haven’t been banned, but they are becoming less common. Some major competitions (like the Beretta World) are now fibre-only, and many clubs are following suit. The move is driven more by club policy and environmental responsibility than legislation, for now.
By choosing fibre, you’re not just following the rules, you’re helping protect the grounds we all enjoy.
Bottom Line: Which Should You Use?
• New shooter? Start with fibre, it’s simple, safe, and accepted almost everywhere.
• Shooting a registered comp? Check first as plastic may be allowed, especially at longer-range events.
• Want to keep it hassle-free? Fibre is a reliable option for nearly every ground in the UK.
Final Thoughts
The fibre vs plastic debate isn’t just about pattern performance, it’s about protecting the sport’s future. Fibre loads work reliably, cost about the same, and are accepted at nearly every UK ground. If you’re ever unsure, fibre is the safer, simpler choice.
đź”— Further Reading
Fibre vs Plastic – the great debate!
Sporting Gun explores fibre vs plastic wads for clay shooting. Covering recoil, performance, and why more grounds are phasing out plastic.
Shooting with Fibre vs Plastic Wads
ArdMoor explores the fibre vs plastic wad debate, citing test results and urging shooters to choose fibre for ethical and environmental reasons.