Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Hevi-Shot Hevi-Hammer 20 gauge steel and bismuth load solves the steel-only pattern problem by layering denser bismuth pellets over a steel base — delivering tighter shot columns and more retained energy past 40 yards. Each 3-inch shell holds 1 ounce of #3 shot, launched at 1350 fps through a boxer primer for reloadability. Designed for waterfowl hunters running 20 gauge autoloaders and pumps in steel-mandated zones, the Hevi-Hammer meets federal non-toxic requirements while pushing pattern density closer to legacy lead performance.
Built for the Box
Hevi-Shot manufactures these shells in the United States, casting bismuth pellets in the same foundry that produces their tungsten hunting loads. The layering process places bismuth — at 9.6 g/cc density — above steel pellets at 7.8 g/cc, creating a leading edge of heavier shot that retains velocity through wind and distance. The 6-point star crimp holds pressure uniformly during ignition, and the reloadable hull accepts new primers and powder for handloaders experimenting with custom waterfowl recipes. Each case ships 250 rounds configured as 10 boxes of 25, classified as DOT-regulated hazmat.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Shell length | 3″ |
| Shot type | Steel and Bismuth |
| Shot weight | 1 Ounce |
| Shot size | #3 |
| Velocity | 1350 fps |
| Rounds/box | 25 (10 boxes / 250 total) |
| Crimp | 6-Point Star |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Barrel type | Smooth Bore |
| Non-toxic | Yes |
| Intended use | Waterfowl |
| Manufacturer | Hevi-Shot (USA) |
The bismuth layer in these shells increases pellet count on target at the pattern fringes, measured in independent tests at 35-40 yards. Hevi-Shot positions the Hevi-Hammer as a mid-tier non-toxic option between steel-only economy loads and full tungsten super-magnum offerings. Browse the full 20 Gauge Steel Shot Ammo category for additional steel, bismuth, and tungsten-matrix alternatives.
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.
- Observe the four universal firearms safety rules — treat every firearm as loaded, never point the muzzle at anything you do not intend to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify current state and local non-toxic shot regulations before hunting waterfowl — some refuges require steel-only, others permit bismuth and tungsten alloys.
- Confirm your shotgun is rated for 3-inch shells and that the choke tube accepts steel and bismuth shot without damage — consult your firearm’s manual or contact the manufacturer if specifications are unclear.
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