Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
For whitetail deer hunters working thick cover or targeting closer shots, the Norma Whitetail 20 gauge rifled slug delivers a 1oz lead projectile at 1600 feet per second from a 2-3/4″ shell. A 20 gauge rifled slug is a shotgun ammunition type that uses helical grooves cut into the slug body to impart spin for stabilization, allowing accurate shot placement from smooth-bore or rifled shotgun barrels at ranges inside 100 yards. Norma loads this round with a soft-cushion wad and proprietary propellant blend to manage recoil while maintaining consistent muzzle velocity — critical for hunters who need to track game through dense hardwoods or swamp edges where follow-up shots may not be possible.
Load Profile
The 1oz rifled lead slug exits the muzzle at 1600fps, generating sufficient energy for clean, humane whitetail kills at typical deer-stand distances. Norma’s wad design cushions the slug during ignition, reducing felt recoil and allowing faster target reacquisition. The Boxer primer is non-corrosive and supports reloading, and the shell is rated for use in both rifled and smooth-bore barrels — giving you flexibility across shotgun platforms without needing a dedicated rifled-barrel gun.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Slug type | Rifled Lead Slug |
| Slug weight | 1 Ounce |
| Muzzle velocity | 1600 Feet Per Second |
| Barrel compatibility | Rifled or Smooth Bore |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Rounds/box | 25 Round |
| Intended use | Big Game |
| Manufacturer | Norma |
Each 25-round box ships with non-corrosive Boxer primers and is reloadable for handloaders who want to tailor velocity or projectile weight. Norma rates this load for big-game hunting, specifically whitetail deer at close to medium distances. Browse our full inventory of 20 gauge slug ammo for additional projectile weights and velocities.
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.
- Follow the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and be certain of your target and what is beyond it.
- Verify current federal, state, and local ammunition laws in your jurisdiction before ordering — some states restrict lead projectiles in certain hunting zones or require non-toxic shot for specific game species.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm under Proposition 65. Wash hands after handling and store securely away from children and pets.
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