"Pigeon load" generally refers to a load of 3-1/4 drams, 1-1/4 oz of extra hard 7-1/2s. The extra hard shot contributes to tighter patterns. I believe they are not legal for any clay target games, except perhaps European FITASC.
If you don't need 1-1/4 oz of shot, premium quality handicap trap loads of 3 drams, 1-1/8 oz of extra hard 7-1/2s will often give a similar effect with considerably less recoil.
If you don't need 1-1/4 oz of shot, premium quality handicap trap loads of 3 drams, 1-1/8 oz of extra hard 7-1/2s will often give a similar effect with considerably less recoil.
