Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
When waterfowl seasons open over flooded timber or open water, the Hevi-Shot Hevi-Hammer 12 gauge steel and bismuth shotshell delivers the range and pattern density steel shooters need without the cost of pure tungsten. This 3″ magnum load chambers 1-1/4 oz of BB-size pellets in a layered column — denser bismuth over lighter steel — and pushes the entire payload to 1500 fps. The result: tighter patterns at 40+ yards, higher retained energy downrange, and clean knockdown on ducks and geese that decoy late or flare wide.
Load Profile
Hevi-Shot casts bismuth pellets in-house alongside tungsten, then layers them over steel shot inside a 6-point star-crimped hull. Bismuth’s density (9.6 g/cc versus steel’s 7.8) means the heavier pellets maintain velocity longer and deliver more foot-pounds at extended range. The steel base layer fills volume and keeps cost competitive, while the bismuth cap penetrates harder and deforms less on impact. Boxer primers and reloadable hulls give you the option to roll your own after you’ve run through the factory box. Because both metals are non-toxic and softer than steel alone, you can run these shells through any choke — from cylinder to full — without barrel damage.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell length | 3″ |
| Shot type | Steel and Bismuth |
| Shot weight | 1-1/4 Ounce |
| Shot size | BB |
| Velocity | 1500 fps |
| Crimp | 6-Point Star |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Rounds/box | 25 |
| Intended use | Waterfowl |
| Barrel type | Smooth Bore |
| Non-toxic | Yes |
| Country of origin | United States of America |
This load sits between pure steel and full bismuth or tungsten in both performance and price. For hunters who need extra reach without stepping up to $3+/shell tungsten loads, the Hevi-Hammer splits the difference. Check our full steel shot shells inventory for companion loads in different shot sizes and velocities.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for shotgun 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; keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Verify current state and local ammunition regulations before purchasing — some jurisdictions restrict shot size, shell length, or non-lead requirements.
- This product contains lead and bismuth. Wash hands after handling. California Proposition 65 warning applies.
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