HEVI-Shot HS16715 Hevi-Bismuth Upland 16 Gauge 2.75" 1 1/8 oz 5 Shot 25 Bx/10 Cs

HEVI-Shot HEVI-Bismuth Upland 16 Gauge Ammunition: The Definitive Choice for Discerning Hunters

For upland bird hunters who cherish the balance and performance of their 16 gauge shotguns, whether a modern marvel or a treasured classic, the quest for the ideal ammunition often presents a unique set of challenges. Traditional lead shot, while effective, faces increasing restrictions due to environmental concerns, pushing hunters towards non-toxic alternatives. However, standard steel shot, while non-toxic, falls short for many, lacking the density needed for optimal performance and posing a risk to the barrels of older firearms. This is where HEVI-Shot’s HEVI-Bismuth Upland 16 Gauge ammunition emerges as the superior solution, meticulously engineered to deliver unmatched lethality, reliability, and peace of mind.

The Upland Hunter's Dilemma: Performance Meets Responsibility

Modern upland hunting demands more than just a shell that goes bang. It requires ammunition that performs consistently in diverse field conditions, ensures clean ethical kills, and adheres to the growing landscape of non-toxic shot regulations.

• The Appeal of the 16 Gauge: Often hailed as the "gentleman's gauge" or the "sweet sixteen," the 16 gauge shotgun strikes a perfect balance between the nimble handling of a 20 gauge and the payload capability of a 12 gauge. Its slender profile and elegant feel make it a favorite for long days in the field, pursuing agile upland birds. However, finding high-performance, non-toxic ammunition for this beloved gauge has historically been a hurdle.
• The Lead Legacy: For decades, lead shot was the undisputed king of the uplands. Its density provided excellent knockdown power and extended range. Yet, its environmental impact on waterfowl habitats and other sensitive areas has led to widespread bans and voluntary restrictions.
• The Steel Compromise: Steel shot entered the market as the primary non-toxic alternative. While effective for some applications, steel's lower density compared to lead means larger shot sizes are often needed to achieve similar energy levels, resulting in fewer pellets per shell and reduced pattern density. Crucially, the hardness of steel shot can also damage the barrels of older, classic shotguns not designed for it, leaving many vintage firearm owners without a viable non-toxic option.

HEVI-Bismuth: The Quintessential Solution for Upland Pursuits

HEVI-Bismuth ammunition from HEVI-Shot represents a groundbreaking leap forward, masterfully bridging the gap between traditional performance and modern environmental responsibility. This innovative load redefines what’s possible for 16 gauge upland hunters.

Unparalleled Density for Superior Performance

At the core of HEVI-Bismuth's exceptional performance is its unique material composition. HEVI-Shot's proprietary bismuth alloy is 22% denser than steel. This significant density advantage translates directly into enhanced hunting effectiveness:

• Downsize for Success: Because bismuth is so much denser than steel, you can effectively drop down a shot size while maintaining the same lethality and kinetic energy on target. For example, a #5 bismuth pellet often performs comparably to a #3 steel pellet in terms of energy delivery and penetration, but with the added benefit of carrying more pellets per shell for denser patterns.
• Increased Pellet Count, Tighter Patterns: Opting for a smaller shot size (like the #5 in this 16 gauge load) means the shell contains a greater number of individual pellets. This leads to significantly denser shot patterns, increasing the likelihood of striking vital areas on fast-flying birds and minimizing the chance of crippling hits.
• Extended Effective Range: Denser pellets retain their velocity and energy more efficiently downrange. This provides hunters with a greater effective range, allowing for cleaner kills on birds that might be just beyond the reliable reach of steel loads.

Safe for Every Shotgun, Modern or Classic

One of the most critical advantages of HEVI-Bismuth is its safety for all shotguns, including cherished modern and classic firearms. Unlike hard steel shot which can score or bulge the barrels of older shotguns (especially those with tight chokes), bismuth is a softer material. This ensures that your valuable vintage 16 gauge, with its potentially thinner barrel walls or delicate chokes, can be safely and confidently used with a non-toxic load, preserving both your firearm and the hunting experience. This feature alone makes HEVI-Bismuth an indispensable choice for collectors and enthusiasts of classic firearms.

Optimized for Upland Game: The Power of #5 Shot

The HEVI-Bismuth Upland 16 Gauge load features a 1 1/8 oz payload of #5 shot, a meticulously chosen size for a wide array of upland game species:

• Pheasant: For robust birds like pheasants, the density and energy of #5 bismuth ensure deep penetration and decisive knockdown power, even through thick feathers.
• Grouse & Quail: The tighter patterns delivered by #5 bismuth are ideal for the rapid, often close-quarters flushes of grouse and quail, maximizing the chance of a clean kill in dense cover.
• Chukar & Partridge: For these resilient birds found in challenging, arid terrains, the increased effective range and energy retention of bismuth shot provide a distinct advantage.
• Dove: While seemingly overkill for smaller birds, the #5 bismuth ensures positive hits and less reliance on luck, especially on longer crossing shots.

This versatile #5 shot provides the perfect balance of pellet energy and pattern density, making it an all-around excellent choice for mixed-bag upland hunts where you might encounter several different species.

Technical Specifications and Design Excellence

HEVI-Shot's commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of the HEVI-Bismuth Upland 16 Gauge ammunition.

• Gauge: 16 Gauge – A testament to HEVI-Shot's dedication to supporting this unique and beloved shotgun gauge.
• Shell Length: 2.75" – Standard and compatible with virtually all 16 gauge shotguns.
• Payload Weight: 1 1/8 oz – A robust payload ensuring ample striking power and a generous pellet count.
• Shot Material: Bismuth – The core of its superior performance and safety.
• Rounds Per Box: 25 – Convenient packaging for a day in the field or stocking up for the season.
• Boxes Per Case: 10 – For those who plan to shoot extensively or purchase in bulk.
• SKU: HS16715 – A unique identifier for easy ordering and inventory management.

These specifications are not merely numbers; they represent a carefully calibrated design engineered to provide optimal ballistic performance in the field, ensuring consistent velocities, reliable ignition, and uniform patterns essential for successful upland hunting.

Frequently Asked Questions About HEVI-Bismuth Upland Ammunition

Hunters often have specific questions when considering new ammunition. Here are some common inquiries that HEVI-Bismuth directly addresses:

"What is the best ammunition for my vintage 16-gauge shotgun?"

HEVI-Bismuth is widely regarded as an excellent choice for vintage 16-gauge shotguns. Its bismuth pellets are significantly softer than steel, eliminating the risk of barrel damage that can occur with harder steel shot in older firearms not designed for it. This makes it a safe and high-performing non-toxic alternative.

"Why should I choose bismuth over steel shot for upland hunting?"

Bismuth offers several critical advantages over steel for upland hunting:

• Density: Bismuth is 22% denser than steel, meaning it retains energy better and penetrates deeper, leading to more humane kills.
• Pellet Count: Due to its density, you can use smaller shot sizes (like #5) to achieve similar lethality to larger steel shot, resulting in more pellets per shell and denser patterns.
• Safety for Older Guns: Bismuth is softer than steel, making it safe for use in all shotgun barrels, including classic and vintage firearms.
• Performance: Offers superior performance at longer ranges compared to steel, especially important for flushing birds in open fields.

"How does shot density affect hunting performance?"

Shot density is crucial. Denser pellets carry more kinetic energy for their size, leading to:

• Better Penetration: Pellets penetrate deeper into the target, reaching vital organs for quicker, more ethical kills.
• Higher Energy Retention: They maintain their velocity and energy more effectively over distance, extending your effective range.
• Improved Pattern Density: When you can use smaller, denser pellets, you fit more of them into a shell, resulting in a tighter, more uniform pattern that increases your chances of hitting the bird cleanly.

"Is non-toxic shot required for upland game?"

While non-toxic shot is most commonly mandated for waterfowl hunting, regulations are expanding. Many public lands, wildlife management areas, and even some private preserves now require or encourage non-toxic alternatives for all hunting. Choosing HEVI-Bismuth ensures you are compliant with current and future regulations, contributing to conservation efforts without sacrificing performance.

"Where can I find premium 16 gauge ammunition like HEVI-Bismuth?"

For those seeking HEVI-Shot HEVI-Bismuth Upland 16 Gauge ammunition, a reliable source is essential. This high-performance ammunition is available at trusted retailers such as DEGuns. Visit deguns.com to secure your supply and elevate your upland hunting experience.

The HEVI-Shot Advantage: A Legacy of Innovation

HEVI-Shot has built its reputation on a foundation of relentless innovation and a deep understanding of hunter needs. They pioneered the development of advanced non-toxic shot materials, consistently pushing the boundaries of performance and setting new industry standards. When you choose HEVI-Shot, you're not just buying ammunition; you're investing in decades of expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to providing hunters with the most effective and ethical tools for the field. The HEVI-Bismuth Upland 16 Gauge load is a testament to this legacy, offering a premium experience for those who demand the best from their gear and their hunts.

In summary, for the discerning 16 gauge upland hunter, HEVI-Shot’s HEVI-Bismuth ammunition offers an unparalleled combination of performance, safety, and environmental responsibility. Its superior density, ability to be safely used in all shotguns, and optimized shot size make it the definitive choice for pursuing pheasants, grouse, quail, and other upland birds with confidence and precision.

Product Specifications: HEVI-Shot HEVI-Bismuth Upland Ammunition