Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
The HEVI-Shot HEVI-Bismuth Turkey 20 gauge 3″ load delivers a blended payload of #4 and #5 bismuth shot at 1300 fps, engineered for hunters who need non-toxic performance without the recoil penalty of magnum steel or the barrel restrictions of lead. Bismuth shot measures 9.6 g/cc — 22% denser than steel — translating to flatter trajectories and deeper penetration at practical turkey ranges. The 20 gauge turkey loads bismuth formula runs safely through fixed-choke barrels, damascus steel doubles, and fine vintage shotguns where steel shot would void warranties or risk bulging. Each 3″ hull holds 1-1/4 oz of shot in a dual-pellet blend: larger #4s anchor vitals on mature toms, smaller #5s fill pattern gaps at the fringe. At 1300 feet per second, muzzle velocity sits in the sweet spot between recoil management and downrange energy retention — critical when you’re shooting off your knee in full camo at first light.
Performance at a Glance
HEVI-Shot manufactures these shells in the United States using boxer primers and reloadable hulls. The non-buffered load cycles reliably in gas-operated semi-autos and break-action singles alike. Bismuth’s density advantage over steel means you’re throwing a tighter, more lethal pattern without stepping up to 3-1/2″ magnum chambers or punishing recoil. The unbuffered design keeps per-round cost lower than premium tungsten-matrix turkey loads while still clearing non-toxic mandates on federal refuges, state wildlife management areas, and waterfowl zones where spring seasons overlap.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Shell length | 3″ |
| Shot type | Bismuth |
| Shot size | #4 and #5 |
| Shot weight | 1-1/4 oz |
| Velocity | 1300 fps |
| Buffered | No |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Corrosive | No |
| Barrel type | Smooth bore |
| Non-toxic | Yes |
| Rounds/box | 5 |
| Intended use | Turkey |
| Manufacturer | HEVI-Shot |
This load pairs with Modified or Full chokes optimized for bismuth shot. Pattern your specific shotgun at 20, 30, and 40 yards before the season — bismuth behaves differently than lead or steel, and you’ll want to verify point-of-impact and pattern density with your turkey choke installed. For more non-toxic waterfowl and upland options, browse our full 20 Gauge Turkey Loads inventory.
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 discipline prevents accidents.
- Verify your state and local laws permit non-toxic shot where you hunt; some areas mandate specific shot compositions.
- This product contains bismuth. While non-toxic under federal waterfowl regulations, California Proposition 65 requires disclosure that lead exposure (from primers and manufacturing residue) can cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
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