First Look: Hevi-Shot Hevi-Hammer Upland Bismuth-Steel Loads

posted on November 4, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
hevi-shot-hevi-hammer-upland_lead.jpg

Hevi-Shot has introduced its new Hevi-Hammer Upland loads. The company is offering 12- and 20- gauge options in No. 5 or No. 7 shot size to cover all the needs of hunters targeting large and medium upland game.

Hevi-Hammer loads are manufactured using 15 percent high-density bismuth (9.64 g/cc) and 85 percent precision steel. That small but mighty leading layer of bismuth over steel delivers nearly 50 percent more down range energy than pellets consisting of all steel at 40 yards.

Hevi-Shot Hevi-Hammer Upland Bismuth-Steel Loads Cutaway Illustration


“We know Hevi-Hammer Upland will help hunters achieve more success in the field,” said Hevi-Shot Product Line Manager Scott Turner. “Upland game is such a beloved and traditional sport. The camaraderie of the hunting with others, watching sporting dogs do what they do best, and to enjoy hiking around, not having to sit in silence are all things upland hunters love about their sport. And we at Hevi-Shot love it too.”

Because Hevi-Hammer pellets feature a layer of 9.6 g/cc bismuth, hunters can generally shoot one shot size smaller than steel for the same lethality, but with a much higher pellet count for increased probability of contact. Hevi-Hammer loads are superior nontoxic shotshells for areas where lead is prohibited. The bismuth-enhanced steel loads provide hunters with an option that has more velocity and more power than standard steel shot, yet is the same size as steel respectively. 

“At Hevi-Shot, density is the secret sauce. We have always been about innovation and density, both of which lead to tighter patterns, higher speeds, and more downrange devastation,” said Turner. “Our customers spoke up and we listened. They wanted a highly effective product that was non-toxic to use in areas that restrict the use of lead. We are proud to now introduce our Hevi-Hammer Upland to our product lineup.”

The new loads are available in two 3-inch, 12-gauge options with charge weights of 1⅜ ounces (No. 3) or 1⅛ ounces (No. 5) with velocity of 1350 fps, and two 20-gauge options with charge weights of 1 ounce (No. 3) or ⅞ ounce (No. 5) with velocity of 1325 fps.

Hevi-Hammer Upland loads are available in boxes of 25 or cases of 250 rounds. For more information, visit hevishot.com

Latest

W H2026 02 KNOW HOW Breedtrees3.24.7
W H2026 02 KNOW HOW Breedtrees3.24.7

Turkey Tactics: Scout Now for Spring Gobblers

Want to find success this spring? Get on the ground now and start scouting for those springtime Toms.

First Look: Ameristep Wide Bottom Blind

Ameristep has launched a new, oversized hunting blind for 2026, featuring all-over Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage. The Frontline Wide-Bottom Extreme accommodates up to three hunters along with all their gear.

Henry National Forest Foundation Rifle Series

Henry Repeating Arms has launched a new series of commemorative rifles to benefit the National Forest Foundation (NFF), the nonprofit partner of the United States Forest Service (USFS).

NRA Unveils NRA App

Your National Rifle Association (NRA) has unveiled its new official NRA App, which creates a whole new way to access magazine content, member benefits, legislative news and more!

Hardware Review: Rossi R95 360 Buckhammer

A fun lever-action in a deer-dropping straight wall chambering? Sign us up! Read on for Brad Fitzpatrick's review.

New for 2026: Stoeger M3500 Waterfowl Mossy Oak Bottomland

Stoeger has expanded its M3500 Waterfowl Special series with a new model finished in Mossy Oak Original Bottomland camo. Paired with a Patriot Brown Cerakote receiver and barrel, the M3500 Waterfowl Special in Mossy Oak Original Bottomland is purpose-built to blend into flooded timber while standing up to harsh, wet environments.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.