Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
16 gauge bismuth ammo bridges the gap between steel’s availability and tungsten’s density — at a price point that doesn’t require refinancing the gun safe. Hevi-Shot Hevi-Bismuth loads chamber a 1-1/8 oz payload of #6 bismuth shot in a 2-3/4″ hull, launching at 1350 fps. Bismuth measures 22% denser than steel, which translates to tighter patterns at range and cleaner penetration through feathers. For shooters running pre-1988 doubles or any fixed-choke gun rated for lead-only, bismuth remains the only non-toxic option that won’t damage thin-wall barrels.
Performance at a Glance
The 1-1/8 oz shot charge sits at the upper end of what a 16 gauge hull can efficiently push. At 1350 fps, you’re carrying enough velocity to maintain pattern density past 35 yards — a practical ceiling for most duck and dove shooting over decoys. The #6 pellet size balances pellet count (roughly 225 pellets per load) with individual pellet energy, making it effective on teal through mallards. Hevi-Shot uses a boxer primer in a reloadable hull with a six-point star crimp, though most hunters treat bismuth as a once-and-done proposition given hull wear from the harder shot.
Fit & Compatibility
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 16 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Bismuth Shot |
| Shot size | #6 |
| Shot weight | 1-1/8 Ounce |
| Muzzle velocity | 1350 Feet Per Second |
| Non-toxic | Yes |
| Buffered | No |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Crimp | 6-Point Star |
| Rounds/box | 25 Round |
| Intended use | Waterfowl |
| Manufacturer | Hevi-Shot |
The 2-3/4″ chamber requirement fits every 16 gauge shotgun in current production and most manufactured since 1930. Pattern this load through your particular choke to confirm point of impact — bismuth’s hardness produces less shot deformation than lead, which often tightens patterns by a half-choke increment compared to steel. Browse the full selection at 16 gauge shotgun ammo.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded — muzzle in a safe direction at all times
- Check your state and local hunting regulations for non-toxic shot requirements and daily bag limits
- Store shotshells away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes to preserve crimp integrity and primer sensitivity
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.