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Shotgun Ammunition Reviews & Testing

Select effective shotgun ammunition with Field & Stream’s expert reviews and pattern testing. We evaluate shotshells for hunting, clay sports, and defensive use across gauges from .410 to 10 gauge. From waterfowl steel shot to turkey loads and buckshot, discover comprehensive reviews covering shot size, velocity, pattern density, and payload to help you choose the right shotgun ammunition for your gun and hunting application.

Shotgun Ammo

Best Upland Hunting Loads, Expert Tested

By Phil Bourjaily

Our shotguns editor picks the best upland loads for everything from pheasants to woodcock. Including a new all-copper shell for 2025

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Shotgun Ammo

HeviShot HeviHitter Waterfowl Load, Expert Tested

By Phil Bourjaily

Our shotguns expert hunted with HeviShot’s new HeviHitter load in Canada and it didn’t disappoint. Here’s a closer look at this premium load

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Shotgun Ammo

Winchester Last Call Double Shot, Expert Tested

By Phil Bourjaily

Our shotguns editor tested Winchester’s premium stacked waterfowl load at the range and in the field. Here’s how it performed

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Shotgun Ammo

Are 3 ½-Inch Shells Worth It?

By Phil Bourjaily

It depends who you ask. Our shotguns expert breaks down the benefits and drawbacks of shooting big shells

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Shotgun Ammo

Are Stacked Loads Really Better for Waterfowl Hunting?

By Phil Bourjaily

Our shotguns expert explains the benefits and drawbacks of these popular shotshells, plus when and where they are most effective

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Shotgun Ammo

Pattern a Shotgun: How to Dial In Your Choke and Load Before the Season

By Phil Bourjaily

Make sure your shotgun is shooting the best possible patterns before upland and waterfowl seasons open. Here’s a step-by-step guide

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Shotgun Ammo

What Is Buckshot?

By Phil Bourjaily

Before you load your shotgun with buckshot for either hunting or home defense, it’s important to understand the different sizes and intended uses

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Shotgun Ammo

Buckshot vs Birdshot

By Phil Bourjaily

The difference between buckshot and birdshot is right in their names. But there’s a lot more to it than just that. Here’s a complete breakdown

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Shotgun Ammo

The Best Light-Kicking Turkey Loads

By Phil Bourjaily

A box of shells doesn’t have to have a picture of a turkey on it to kill turkeys

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Shotgun Ammo

Do Shotgun Slugs Deserve Another Chance?

By Phil Bourjaily

Straight-wall cartridge rifles are sweeping through deer camps in the Midwest, but slugs can still put deer on the ground

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