Description
The HEVI-HAMMER brings real density to the waterfowl game. The engineering here is straightforward but effective: 15% high-density bismuth pellets layered over precision steel gives you the best of both worlds. You get that extra knockdown power from bismuth's inherent density while the steel base keeps your cost reasonable for serious hunting volume.
What Makes HEVI-HAMMER Bismuth-Over-Steel Work
The bismuth layer packs nearly 50% more knockdown power than steel alone at 40 yards. That small leading edge of bismuth hits first and does the heavy lifting, while the steel backing ensures you've got enough pellets in the pattern to get the job done. The density difference matters at distance—bismuth loses velocity slower than steel, so your pattern stays effective well beyond typical steel ranges. At 1500 fps, these shells move fast enough to maintain energy where it counts.
Pattern and Range Performance
Most hunters find HEVI-HAMMER delivers tighter patterns than straight steel loads in comparable chokes. The layered construction extends your effective range noticeably, making these shells work well for decoying situations where birds might hang at 35-50 yards rather than cupping close. The #2 shot size is the sweet spot for waterfowl—big enough to anchor ducks and geese, small enough to pack meaningful pellet count in the shell.
Practical Field Use
These load consistently at 1500 fps from a 1 1/4 ounce payload in a 3-inch hull. HEVI-HAMMER works in modern semi-autos and newer pump guns without issue. Unlike tungsten loads that can require special chokes, bismuth layers over steel play nicer with standard modified and full chokes. The non-toxic composition means these shells work anywhere waterfowl hunting is allowed, giving you one reliable load for the entire season whether you're jump-shooting early season teal or grinding out late-season geese.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: HEVI-Shot
- Model/Part Number: HS28002
- UPC: 816383002063
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Shell Length: 3 inches
- Shot Size: #2
- Shot Weight: 1 1/4 ounce
- Muzzle Velocity: 1500 fps
- Shot Composition: 15% Bismuth over 85% Steel
- Bismuth Density: 9.6 g/cc
- Rounds Per Box: 25
- Ammunition Type: Non-Toxic Waterfowl
- Made in USA: Yes
What’s Included
- 25 rounds of HEVI-HAMMER 12 gauge 3-inch shotshells
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the HEVI-HAMMER compare to straight steel loads?
HEVI-HAMMER delivers 38% more lethal range than steel with #2 shot because bismuth is roughly 25% denser. The bismuth layer hits first with significantly more knockdown power, while the steel backing maintains pattern density. You get better range performance than pure steel without paying full bismuth prices.
What chokes work best with HEVI-HAMMER shells?
These shells pattern well in modified and full chokes on most shotguns. Because the shot composition is softer than tungsten, you don't need specialized chokes—standard waterfowl chokes handle HEVI-HAMMER without issue. Pattern your specific gun to confirm, as individual shotgun/choke combinations vary.
Are HEVI-HAMMER shells safe for older or vintage shotguns?
Yes. Bismuth is significantly softer than steel or tungsten, making it safe for fixed-choke barrels and vintage shotguns that can't handle steel loads. The layered design provides the performance benefit of bismuth density while remaining gentle on older gun barrels.
How far can you effectively shoot with these #2 shells?
HEVI-HAMMER extends effective range well beyond standard steel, typically to 50-55 yards depending on your shotgun's pattern. At 40 yards, most hunters see tight, lethal patterns. Like any waterfowl load, your choke, gun, and specific load combination determine your true effective distance—pattern yours to know for sure.




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