MDC offers two shotgun patterning classes March 26 and April 3 at the new Busch Shooting Range

DEFIANCE, Mo. — Knowing characteristics of ammunition and shot spread is crucial to a shotgun hunter’s success.  Before heading out into the field, it is important to pattern a shotgun to get an appropriate pattern for the game being hunted. The Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) new August A. Busch Shooting Range and Education Center is presenting two classes this spring that will help hunters do just that.

Shotgun Patterning Basics will be held Monday, March 26 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.  This program will help hunters determine the most effective choke/shot shell combination for their specific shotguns to be most effective with a variety of game.

Shotgun Patterning for Turkey will take place Tuesday, April 3, from 5 p.m.-7p.m.  This program focuses on the patterning needs of turkey hunting to ensure hunters get the appropriate pattern for bagging gobblers.  It will cover maximum effective range to harvest a turkey, along with the best shot sizes specifically for hunting turkey.

MDC will provide all firearms, ammunition, and safety equipment for both classes.  However participants may also bring their own shotgun and ammunition.  The classes are open to ages 10 and up; however, participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Each class is free, but advance registration is required.  To register for Shotgun Patterning Basics go to https://goo.gl/gYUr6A.  For the Shotgun Patterning for Turkey class, register at https://goo.gl/x9exHD.

The new August A. Busch Shooting Range is located at 3550 Route D in Defiance, approximately five miles west of Highway 94.