Description
If you're running a 20 gauge into pheasant country, Golden Pheasant loads are worth having in your gun bag. Fiocchi developed these specifically for upland hunting, and they've earned a solid reputation for doing exactly what they're supposed to do in the field.
The big story here is the nickel-plated shot. It stays rounder through the barrel than soft lead, which means tighter patterns and better penetration on tough birds. At longer ranges especially, that matters. A lot of field hunters report less feather-wad buildup on the pellets too, which is nice when you're cleaning your birds. The shot flies straighter downrange because of that hardened surface, so you're getting more consistent energy delivery out to 40 yards where pheasants like to flush.
Golden Pheasant builds with what works
The load itself is straightforward: 1-1/4 ounces of #4 shot at 1200 feet per second. That velocity gives you enough zip without beating your shoulder to death from a lighter gun. The 3-inch shell packs noticeably more payload than a standard 2-3/4 load, which means denser patterns and more pellets in the kill zone on each shot. The #4 size is right in the sweet spot for roosters—plenty of pellets for pattern density, but each one's big enough to mean something when it connects.
Why Fiocchi matters
These shells come from a company that's been in the ammunition business since the 1870s. They weren't trying to reinvent anything with Golden Pheasant—they were just trying to make reliable, predictable ammo for one of the toughest upland birds you can hunt. Twenty-five rounds per box gives you enough for a solid day in the field or pattern testing before season opens.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 20 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inches
- Shot Size: #4
- Shot Weight: 1-1/4 oz
- Muzzle Velocity: 1200 feet per second
- Shot Type: Nickel-Plated Lead
- Rounds Per Box: 25
- Intended Use: Upland Game / Pheasant Hunting
- Manufacturer: Fiocchi
- Manufacturer Part Number: 203GP4
- UPC: 762344702483
What’s Included
- 25 rounds of Fiocchi Golden Pheasant 20 gauge shells
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I choose #4 shot for pheasants instead of #5 or #6?
#4 shot carries more energy per pellet, which is an advantage on wild late-season roosters that have learned to flush hard and fly strong. You trade some pellet count for more per-pellet knockdown power. The #4 in these Golden Pheasant loads works well at ranges up to about 40 yards when you're hunting over a dog in typical upland cover.
Do I need to be careful about shooting these in an older shotgun?
Make sure your shotgun is actually chambered for 3-inch shells—some older 20 gauges are limited to 2-3/4 inches. If your gun accepts 3-inch loads, these will run just fine. The 1200 fps velocity is moderate enough that it won't beat up older gun actions.
How much difference does the nickel plating actually make?
The plating keeps the pellets rounder and harder as they travel down the barrel, which tightens patterns and improves penetration compared to soft lead. You'll notice it most at longer ranges and on tougher, heavily-feathered birds. Nickel-plated loads from Fiocchi have a solid track record with hunters who expect consistent, reliable performance.
Are these reloadable?
Yes. These come in standard high-brass hulls that can be reloaded, making them a practical choice if you handload ammunition. The brass is durable and cycles well through most shotguns.





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