Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
Winchester Deer Season XP Copper Impact 12 Gauge delivers a solid copper sabot slug designed for jurisdictions requiring lead-free projectiles. Each 2-3/4″ shell drives a 1oz polymer-tipped slug at 1600 fps, generating 2489 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. The large-diameter polymer tip initiates rapid expansion on contact, while the monolithic copper construction retains near-100% weight for deep penetration through muscle and bone. Winchester engineered this load specifically for whitetail hunters facing lead restrictions — the red polymer tip differentiates it from standard Deer Season XP at a glance in the field.
Built for the Box
The XP Copper Impact slug uses a hollow-point cavity behind the polymer tip to control expansion, paired with a copper-alloy body that sheds minimal mass through hide and tissue. Winchester applies a roll crimp to the 2-3/4″ hull and loads each round with a non-corrosive boxer primer — cases are reloadable for handloaders with sabot slug tooling. The streamlined sabot design stabilizes in rifled bores, though Winchester does not recommend this load for smoothbore barrels or choke-equipped guns. Velocity holds consistent at 1600 fps from test barrels, with energy remaining above 2400 ft-lbs inside 50 yards.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot/Slug Type | Polymer Tip Sabot Slug |
| Slug Weight | 1 Ounce |
| Velocity | 1600 fps |
| Energy | 2489 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/Box | 5 |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Barrel Type | Rifled Bore |
| Crimp | Roll |
| NonToxic | Yes |
| Intended Use | Big Game |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
This polymer-tipped copper slug fits hunters pursuing deer in California, Illinois, and other jurisdictions mandating lead-free projectiles. The 1oz weight balances energy transfer with manageable recoil in pump and semi-auto shotguns. Browse additional lead-free options in our 12 Gauge Slugs catalog.
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.
- Always follow the four rules of firearm safety when handling loaded shotguns.
- Verify current state and local laws before purchasing or transporting ammunition across jurisdiction lines.
- Use only in shotguns chambered for 2-3/4″ or longer 12 Gauge shells with rifled barrels — do not fire through smoothbore or choked barrels.
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