When patterning a shotgun, what is the goal regarding pellet density?

The goal of patterning a shotgun is to achieve an even density of pellets within a 30-inch circle. This process involves firing the shotgun at a target to assess how the pellets spread and where they land. An even density means that there is a consistent distribution of pellets throughout the circle, which increases the likelihood of hitting a target effectively, particularly in hunting scenarios.

Achieving this desired density ensures that when a hunter aims at a game bird or other target, there is a higher chance of a successful shot being made, as more pellets will be concentrated in the area of impact. Having random pellet placement or unevenly spaced pellets would not be effective, as it could lead to missed shots or ineffective hits, while maximizing the number of pellets outside the circle would not be beneficial for accuracy or effectiveness in hitting the intended target. Therefore, focusing on producing an even distribution of pellets within the designated area is crucial for successful shotgun performance.