Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Winchester Bismuth 410 ammo solves the smallest-gauge waterfowl problem — delivering non-toxic performance without the steel-shot limitations that frustrate 410 hunters. Bismuth shot is denser than steel, letting you drop shot sizes for tighter patterns while maintaining energy on target. Winchester tin-plates every pellet for roundness and adds a buffering compound that cushions ignition shock. At 40 yards, this load puts 90% of the pattern on target — a figure competitive with steel loads two gauges larger. The Drylok wad system seals powder and primer from moisture, critical when you’re hunting flooded timber or coastal marshes where conditions turn faster than the birds. Three-inch hulls at 1300 fps give you the velocity necessary to reach second shots on teal and woodies. Fifteen rounds per box, Boxer-primed for reloading, brass base for extraction reliability.
Built for the Box
Winchester mills bismuth shot in-house, then tin-plates each pellet to produce a harder, rounder projectile than raw bismuth. The buffering compound fills voids between pellets inside the hull, preventing deformation when the primer fires and the pellet stack compresses. You get tighter patterns and more uniform shot clouds. The Drylok wad system uses a double-seal design — a base seal that locks powder in place and a cup seal that keeps moisture out of the primer pocket. This load is manufactured in the United States at Winchester facilities under ISO standards for ammunition consistency.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 410 Bore |
| Shell length | 3″ |
| Shot type | Bismuth |
| Shot size | #5 |
| Shot weight | 5/8 oz |
| Velocity | 1300 fps |
| Buffered | No (proprietary buffering compound present) |
| Wad | Winchester Drylok |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Rounds/box | 15 |
| Intended use | Waterfowl |
| Barrel type | Smooth bore |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
This load is purpose-built for Winchester 410 ammo applications where federal or state regulations mandate non-toxic shot. Bismuth’s density advantage over steel means you can use #5 shot where steel would require #4 or larger, gaining pellet count without sacrificing penetration.
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. Muzzle discipline prevents accidents.
- Verify current waterfowl regulations in your state — some areas restrict shot sizes or mandate specific non-toxic materials.
- Store bismuth loads in factory packaging until use. Moisture intrusion degrades ignition reliability despite the Drylok system.
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