Helpful Hints

Shot Size Selection

With bismuth shot, choose shot one size larger than the lead shot you usually choose

(for example, No. 5 instead of No. 6 shot). With steel shot, move up at least two sizes

larger than the usual lead-shot size (for example, No. 2 instead of No. 4 shot). The

larger shot size helps the non-toxic pellets keep their energy in flight and improves

downrange performance.

Select a choke

You can use any choke with non-toxic shot as long as it produces a dense enough

pattern at the distance you are shooting. Full chokes usually do not pattern well with

large shot (BB, BBB, T). A more open choke (such as modified) generally works well

with steel shot.

Barrel Damage Concerns

Some hunters concerned that steel shot may cause choke damage. A slight bulge

may develope when steel shot is fired repeatedly through some full or extra-choke

barrels. The probability of this increases with increasing shot size. These bulges do

note reduce the safety of the gun barrel. It is generally recommended that heavy steel

loads not be used in very light field guns or older, double-barreled guns with soft, thin-

walled barrels. Excercise caution and consult a gun maker or gunsmith if you have

questions.

Order Early

Buy your non-toxic shot well before the hunting season starts. That way you'll be sure

to have enough, and will have time to pattern your shotgun properly and determine the

brand and size that are best for your gun.