Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, lifelong hunter.
The Winchester Xpert Pheasant 12 Gauge steel shot load brings 1-1/4 ounces of #4 pellets to upland fields at 1400 feet per second. A steel shotshell is a non-toxic ammunition option, containing steel projectiles rather than lead, required in many waterfowl and upland hunting areas under federal and state regulations. Chambered in 12 Gauge and packaged in 3-inch hulls, this load frames itself around pheasant hunters, dove shooters, and small-game pursuits where range runs 25 to 40 yards and pattern density decides whether birds fold or fly off wounded. Winchester manufactures the Xpert line with corrosion-resistant steel pellets, Boxer primers, and reloadable hulls — all assembled in the United States.
Built for the Box
Each 25-round box ships non-buffered steel shot seated in smooth-bore-compatible hulls. The 1-1/4-ounce payload at 1400 fps generates sufficient pattern spread for crossing shots without excessive recoil in gas-operated or inertia semi-autos. Steel’s density sits below lead, so Winchester compensates with higher velocity to maintain downrange energy. Corrosion-resistant pellets hold pattern integrity through wet conditions, and the Boxer primer allows for hull reloading if you hand-press your own rounds. Non-toxic classification meets USFWS and state waterfowl regulations, though this specific load targets upland birds rather than ducks or geese.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell length | 3″ |
| Shot type | Steel Shot |
| Shot size | #4 |
| Shot weight | 1-1/4 Ounce |
| Velocity | 1400 fps |
| Barrel type | Smooth Bore |
| Rounds/box | 25 |
| Buffered | No |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Upland, Dove & Small Game |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
Steel #4 pellets measure 0.130 inches in diameter, landing between #5 (0.120″) and #3 (0.140″) on the shot size chart. That diameter strikes a middle ground for pheasant and dove — dense enough to anchor ringnecks at 35 yards, yet fine enough to avoid excessive pattern gaps. The 3-inch hull length accommodates the 1-1/4-ounce payload without overloading the crimp, and the 1400 fps muzzle velocity compensates for steel’s lower density relative to lead. Browse more non-toxic options in our steel shot shells category.
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 universal rules of firearm safety — treat every firearm as loaded, finger off trigger until on target, muzzle in a safe direction, identify your target and what lies beyond.
- Verify current state and local laws governing ammunition purchase, possession, and transport in your jurisdiction before ordering.
- Confirm your shotgun chambers 3-inch shells before loading — firing 3″ loads in a 2¾” chamber generates dangerous pressures and may rupture the barrel.
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