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

375 Setup
375 Setup

Is Wildcatting Right for You?

Dennis Bradley explores the potential benefits of going with a wildcat cartridge, using the .375 Raptor as a case study.

New for 2026: The Chiappa M1-22 Bushranger

Chiappa Firearms expands its rimfire lineup with the introduction of the Bushranger M1-22 Semi-Auto, a .22 LR rifle built to bridge familiar sporting ergonomics with modern accessory capability. The Bushranger is intended for recreational shooting, skill development and range use, but could also excel in the hands of any small game or varmint hunter.

Savage Updates 212 and 220 Slug Guns

Savage Arms has upgraded its 212/220 Harvester and Harvester Woodland slug guns. These models now feature the AccuFit V2 stock system, providing shooters with all sorts of customizable options.

Science Behind Mountain Lion Management and Hunting

Across North America, agencies responsible for the conservation and management of native mammals, including large carnivores, employ science-based tools to manage wildlife populations. It’s a delicate balance too often compromised by emotion at the ballot box.

Wild Game Recipe: Venison Empanadas

Want to cook up some empanadas with last year's deer? Look no further than the "Know When to Fold 'Em" venison empanadas, by Chef Holly Hearn of Game Girl Gourmet.

Federal Ammunition Expands Options in 6mm ARC

Federal Ammunition is offering more options int he 6mm ARC cartridge for 2026. Designed for the AR-15 platform, the short-action cartridge pair low recoil with high potential accuracy. Federal's new offerings in this cartridge will include American Eagle TMJ 110-grain, Fusion Tipped 110-grain and Gold Medal Berger BT Target 108-grain.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.