Description
When lead bans hit upland zones, bismuth fills the gap that steel can't quite close. Fiocchi's Golden Pheasant Bismuth line bridges the ballistic divide by using high-density 9.75g/cc bismuth in a precision-loaded, moisture-resistant sealed hull. That density matters. It means your pellets retain velocity downrange, group tighter in patterns, and penetrate with authority. With #6 shot at 1400 fps and 1 1/4 oz, you get the combination upland hunters expect from a top-tier load.
How Bismuth Outperforms Steel When Lead's Not an Option
The physics are straightforward: bismuth is roughly 23% denser than steel, which translates to real field advantages. Where steel forces you to step up several sizes to match performance, bismuth lets you stay with your preferred shot size and get more pellets on target. That's more hits on passing birds and denser patterns across your effective range.
Fiocchi's Upland-Proven Design
These shells use the same quality components that made the Golden Pheasant line a staple in upland fields for decades. Precision loading, tight crimp, and careful powder selection mean consistent performance from box to box. The moisture-resistant hull keeps everything protected whether you're in wet early-season conditions or brushing through dry late-season cover.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 2.75 inches
- Shot Size: #6
- Shot Weight: 1 1/4 oz
- Muzzle Velocity: 1400 fps
- Shot Density: 9.75 g/cc
- Shot Type: Bismuth (Non-Toxic)
- Hull Type: Moisture-Resistant Sealed
- Rounds Per Box: 10
- Manufacturer: Fiocchi
- Manufacturer Part Number: 12GPB6
- UPC: 762344712970
What’s Included
- 10 rounds per box
Frequently Asked Questions
How does bismuth shot compare to steel for upland hunting?
Bismuth is roughly 23% denser than steel, which means it retains velocity better downrange and produces tighter patterns. You can use smaller shot sizes with bismuth and still get better penetration and pattern density than comparable steel loads. This makes bismuth a solid choice for areas where lead restrictions apply but you don't want to sacrifice performance.
Will this bismuth ammunition damage my shotgun barrel?
Bismuth is softer and less damaging than steel, making it safe for older shotguns with fixed chokes and vintage barrels. It won't cause the wear issues associated with steel shot. That said, always check your shotgun's manual and confirm compatibility with non-toxic ammunition before use.
What shot size should I use for pheasants with bismuth?
The #6 load in this box is a solid all-purpose choice for upland birds. Bismuth's higher density means you get performance from smaller sizes than you might use with steel. Many hunters also prefer #5 or #4 for heavier birds in thicker cover, depending on range and choke, so pattern testing before the season is always worth your time.
Are these shells affected by moisture in the field?
These rounds use Fiocchi's moisture-resistant sealed hull design, so they'll hold up to wet brush, rain, and early-season conditions. That sealed hull protects the powder charge and primers from ambient moisture that can affect performance.





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