Description
Winchester built the Super Pheasant Diamond Grade with pheasant hunters in mind. This 3-inch shell packs 1 5/8 oz of copper-plated Diamond Grade shot propelled at 1350 fps, combining long-range velocity with serious knockdown power for roosters across open fields and late-season hunts.
What Makes Diamond Grade Shot Different
The real story here is the shot itself. Winchester loads these shells with precision-sorted, copper-plated lead shot alloyed with 8% antimony – four times the antimony content of standard target loads. This hardening alloy reduces pellet deformation when the shot travels through brush and air, resulting in tighter patterns and more consistent energy downrange. Only the roundest pellets make the cut, which matters when you're trying to put a clean pattern on a fast-moving bird at 40 yards.
Pattern Performance and Engineered Wads
Beyond the shot, Winchester includes specially engineered wads that manage recoil while maintaining tight shot columns. The high brass hull holds everything together reliably through repeated shooting. The combination of hard shot, proper wad design, and consistent powder charges means you get repeatable patterns from box to box, which builds confidence in the field.
25-Round Box for Extended Season
Each box gives you 25 shells to work with. Whether you're running dogs through early-season cover or hunting late roosting areas when birds get spookier, you'll have enough rounds for a solid hunt without overbuying.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Winchester
- Model Number: SPDG1235
- UPC: 020892027145
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inch
- Shot Size: #5
- Shot Weight: 1 5/8 oz
- Shot Type: Copper-Plated Diamond Grade Lead with 8% Antimony
- Muzzle Velocity: 1350 fps
- Hull Type: High Brass
- Rounds per Box: 25
- Application: Upland Game Hunting
What’s Included
- 25 Winchester Super Pheasant Diamond Grade shotshells
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this 3-inch shell better than a 2 3/4-inch load?
The 3-inch length allows Winchester to load more shot weight (1 5/8 oz vs 1 3/8 oz in standard shells) while maintaining the same velocity. More pellets on target means denser patterns and better odds of a clean kill at extended range. The trade-off is increased recoil, which you feel when running a full day.
Can I use these shells in any 12-gauge shotgun?
No – these are specifically for 12-gauge shotguns chambered for 3-inch shells. If your gun is marked 2 3/4-inch only, you cannot safely use these. Always check your shotgun's chamber specifications before loading any ammunition.
What is 8% antimony and why does it matter?
Antimony is a hardening alloy mixed with lead shot to reduce deformation. The 8% in Diamond Grade is four times higher than standard loads, making the pellets harder and more resistant to flattening when hitting air or cover. This keeps patterns tighter and delivers more downrange energy compared to softer shot.
Are these shells good for other upland game besides pheasants?
Number 5 shot works well for other similar-sized upland birds like grouse and prairie chickens. These shells may be overkill for smaller birds like quail or dove, and the high velocity can increase damage on closer birds. The load is built with pheasants in mind, but versatility exists within similar-sized game.





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