Description
These Heavy Magnum Coyote shells are built from the ground up for taking predators cleanly and efficiently. Each 3-inch shell holds 1.5 ounces of nickel-plated lead BB shot moving at 1,300 fps, delivering a heavy payload with enough penetration to anchor coyotes while preserving the pelt. The nickel plating on the shot makes a real difference, hardening the pellets to resist deformation and ensuring they maintain velocity downrange.
What Makes the Versatite Wad Different
The standout feature of these shells is Hornady's proprietary Versatite wad. Rather than relying solely on choke constriction, the wad itself manages the shot string and pattern density. It strips cleanly away from the pellets, which means you get tighter, more uniform patterns without needing to resort to overly tight chokes. This wad design is why many hunters report exceptional patterns with these shells, even through modified chokes.
Real-World Performance
These shells pattern reliably and deliver lethal results well out to 50 yards. The combination of heavy shot, velocity, and wad technology means you get both energy and pattern density. Hunters have reported success taking coyotes at 40-50 yards with standard modified chokes, and the 1.5-ounce charge gives you roughly 77 pellets per shell, providing confidence on fast-moving targets that don't always give you a second chance.
Value vs Premium Alternatives
You'll often hear comparisons to tungsten options. The truth is, those premium alternatives cost significantly more while the Hornady load does the job extremely well at a fraction of the price. This makes it an economical choice for volume predator management or practice without sacrificing effectiveness where it counts.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inches
- Shot Size: #BB
- Shot Weight: 1.5 ounces
- Muzzle Velocity: 1,300 fps
- Shot Material: Nickel-plated lead
- Wad Type: Hornady Versatite
- Rounds Per Box: 10
- Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing
- Model: Heavy Magnum Coyote
- Manufacturer Part Number: 86222
- UPC: 090255862225
What’s Included
- 10 rounds of ammunition in original Hornady box
Frequently Asked Questions
What choke should I use with these Heavy Magnum Coyote shells?
Hornady recommends using a modified or improved cylinder choke with these shells because the Versatite wad does much of the patterning work for you. Tighter chokes like full can sometimes spill shot too early. Many hunters successfully use modified chokes, and some even go with dedicated predator chokes. Patterning your shotgun at distance is the best way to find what works for your gun.
How far are these shells effective?
Hornady rates these shells for lethal results with minimal pelt damage out to 50 yards. Most hunters achieve best results between 20-45 yards depending on their shotgun and choke setup. The tight patterns from the Versatite wad give you more confidence at moderate ranges than standard shotshells, but effective range always depends on your gun's patterning and your shot placement.
Why is the nickel plating on the shot important?
The nickel plating hardens the lead pellets and gives them a smoother surface, which prevents flattening and deformation as they travel downrange. This means better penetration and more consistent patterns. It's one reason these loads outperform basic buckshot options at distance.
Are these shells suitable for other predators besides coyotes?
While designed for coyotes, these shells work on foxes and other predators at appropriate distances. The BB shot size and heavy load make them suitable for larger predators where you need bone-breaking energy. Always check local regulations, as some areas restrict certain shot sizes for specific game.





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