steel shot shells

Steel shot shells are the non-toxic shotgun loads required for waterfowl hunting across the U.S. — the federally mandated alternative to lead for ducks, geese, and other migratory birds. Since lead shot was banned for waterfowl in 1991, steel has become the workhorse non-toxic load: affordable, effective, and available in every gauge and size a wingshooter needs. This page covers how steel differs from lead, which sizes to choose, and the non-toxic alternatives. These shells are part of our full 12 gauge ammo selection.

Tatted Tacticals stocks steel shot from Federal, Winchester, Kent, HEVI-Shot, and Boss — duck and goose loads in 2-3/4″, 3″, and 3-1/2″, by the box and by the case.

Steel vs. Lead: Why Sizing Changes

Steel is less dense than lead, so a steel pellet carries less energy than a lead pellet of the same size and sheds velocity faster. The fix is simple: go up about two shot sizes versus what you’d use in lead. Where lead #4 once dropped ducks, steel #2 does the job; for geese, step up to BBB or T. Steel also patterns tighter, so many hunters open their choke one step. Our steel shot guide has full size and load recommendations.

Shot Sizes for Waterfowl

Match the load to the bird: steel #4–#2 for teal and woodies, #2–BB for mallards and divers, and BBB–T for geese. The 3″ and 3-1/2″ magnum shells carry more payload to offset steel’s lighter pellets at range. For the densest non-toxic performance, tungsten and bismuth loads (HEVI-Shot, Boss) hit far harder than steel size-for-size at a higher price — worth it for pass-shooting geese. Standards follow SAAMI specifications.

Steel and Other Loads

Steel is for waterfowl and wherever non-toxic shot is required; for upland, defense, and deer you’ll choose lead-based loads like 12 gauge buckshot and slugs. Smaller-gauge waterfowlers use 20 gauge steel shot, and goose hunters wanting maximum payload turn to the 10 gauge.

Buying Steel Shot Shells

Buy by the case for a hunting season — per-box cost drops significantly. Federal law sets the minimum age for shotgun ammunition at 18; per ATF guidance, confirm federal rules and review our ammunition shipping rules and state restrictions before ordering, and always verify current non-toxic regulations for your hunt.

Steel Shot Shells — Frequently Asked Questions

What shotgun shells are steel shot?

Steel shot shells are non-toxic loads using steel pellets instead of lead, made primarily for waterfowl hunting where lead is banned. Every major manufacturer produces them in duck and goose loads across gauges and shot sizes. The box will be marked “steel” or “non-toxic,” distinguishing them from lead upland and target loads.

What shotgun shell is illegal?

Lead shot is illegal for hunting waterfowl and other migratory birds under federal law, and some states extend non-toxic requirements to other game or specific areas. Lead remains legal for upland birds, target shooting, and most other uses outside those rules. Always check the current non-toxic regulations for the species and area you hunt.

Is HEVI-Shot the same as steel shot?

No. HEVI-Shot and similar tungsten-based loads are denser than steel — closer to or exceeding lead — so they hit harder and carry energy farther size-for-size. They cost considerably more than steel. Steel is the affordable, effective everyday waterfowl load; tungsten and bismuth are premium non-toxic options for longer shots.

Do I need to change shot size when switching to steel?

Yes. Because steel is lighter than lead, go up about two shot sizes to match the energy you’d get from lead — for example, use steel #2 where you’d use lead #4. Steel also patterns tighter, so opening your choke one step often improves results. Pattern your gun with your chosen steel load before the hunt.

Can you buy steel shot shells online?

Yes. In most U.S. states you can buy steel shot shells online and have them shipped to your door. The minimum age for shotgun ammunition is 18, and some states and municipalities add restrictions or shipping limits, so confirm your state and local laws before ordering.