Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Winchester 16 gauge ammo remains a field-proven choice for upland bird hunters working dense cover with vintage or specialty firearms. The Super X High Brass loads 1-1/8 oz of #4 lead shot into a 2-3/4″ hull, exiting the muzzle at 1295 fps — sufficient velocity for clean pattern delivery at dove, quail, and rabbit ranges without the recoil penalty of 12-gauge field loads. A 16 gauge shotgun is chambered for the 16 gauge cartridge, a bore diameter that splits the difference between 12 and 20 gauge, offering moderate payload weight with manageable impulse for all-day carry in timber and hedgerow.
Built for the Box
Winchester manufactures this shell with a traditional high-brass head — not a performance indicator in modern shotshells, but a visual cue to higher base pressures and denser payloads relative to low-brass target loads. The case accepts a Boxer primer, making it reloadable for shooters who maintain 16-gauge reloading dies. The 6-point star crimp holds the shot column during storage and initial acceleration, then opens cleanly downrange. Lead shot remains legal for upland hunting in most jurisdictions; verify current regulations before field use if hunting waterfowl or on designated non-toxic-only ranges.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 16 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Lead Shot |
| Shot weight | 1-1/8 Ounce |
| Shot size | #4 |
| Velocity | 1295 fps |
| Buffered | No |
| Crimp | 6-Point Star |
| Barrel type | Smooth Bore |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Rounds/box | 25 |
| Intended use | Upland, Dove & Small Game |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
The #4 shot diameter suits birds from dove through pheasant at moderate ranges; smaller shot sizes (#6, #7.5) improve pattern density for closer-flushing quail. For additional 16 gauge shotgun ammo options, browse our in-stock inventory.
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 rules of firearms safety: treat every firearm as loaded, never point 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 lies beyond it.
- Verify that your firearm is chambered for 16 gauge and has a minimum 2-3/4″ chamber length before loading. Consult your owner’s manual for shot-size and choke recommendations.
- This ammunition contains lead, a substance known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm under Proposition 65. Wash hands after handling; do not handle food, drink, or tobacco products until hands are clean.
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