Triple 777 Pellet in Encore questions

[Sandy Flakeman]

Just wondering if any hunters out there use last years pellets for hunting whitetail deer.  The pellets were stored in the original box but I'm wondering about the possibility of humidity affecting performance.  It gets humid where I live.

Do you use 2 pellets for whitetail deer or 3 pellets?  I've been using 2 when target shooting and seem to get good results.  I have yet to get a deer so I'm just asking.

Also, is there any other type pellet out there that has less fouling?  I find Triple 777 to be almost as dirty as Pyrodex but much easier to clean.  Suggestions appreciated.

[Redhawk1]

I have used pellets that are 2 years old with just as good of results as new ones. I keep my powder in my house that is not subject to much humidity or temp change. I have shot deer with 2 triple seven pellets and 3 pellets. I have since gone to loose triple seven, I have had better accuracy with the powder over the pellets.

I don't find triple 7 as dirty as Pyrodex. Triple 7 is very easy to clean up after, but no matter what you use, it is going to leave a residue.

[major257]

I agree with Redhawk1 on all counts. Two-three-four years old no matter. And powder is more accurate and cheaper to shoot.

[Ghostcoyote]

I have been using the encore in the ML configuration since they came out.
Fantastic firearm and accurate.  The key to accuracy with it is the between shot cleaning.
I switched to 777 pellets the fouling is slightly milder than pyrodex.
I run two wet patches with T/C 13 then approx. 3 patches to dry.
My all around personnel load for accuracy in my gun is 2/50 gr. 777 pellets and 20 grs. of fffg triple 7 under the pellets.
With the right bullet sabot combination accuracy will surprise!
I have had no problems with my pellets year to year stored in their present container.
The loose 777 under pellets seems to lighten fouling and I get better ignition.

[Buckskin]

I use loose triple 7 now because of improved accuracy over the pellets.  As long as you keep moisture out of it, it will last for a long time.  As far as accuracy goes, mine likes 130gr 777 w/ 245gr powerbelts.  I have found that if I run a spit patch down after every shot, that is all the cleaning that needs to be done to keep the accuracy.  Also a must in my opinion is to go with the 25acp conversion if you really want to bring in your groups.

[Tracker]

I just picked up a new Encore ML yesterday.  Went to the range today and was very pleased.  Do need to move the scope forward as on my first shot I got a little blood off the bridge of my noise where the scope caught it.  I have included a 5 shot group at 75 yards.  100 grain T 7 loose powder, Hortady 250 SST with sabot's I got from Precision Rifle. 

[Redhawk1]

Tracker,
Great group. 

[Tracker]

Yea.  I was very happy.  Next time on the range I am going to put the .25ACP breech plug in and see how/if the groups change.  It made a lot difference in my NEF.  Also hope to get out to 100yards.

[Buckskin]

The ACP conv. helped me a ton.  But your group is pretty darn good to start with.  I may have to try out those sabots form Precision.