Choosing shotgun ammunition starts with confirming the correct gauge and shell length for the firearm, then considering shot type, shot size, payload weight, velocity, recoil, choke compatibility, intended application, and manufacturer recommendations.

Common Shotgun Ammunition Types

• Birdshot: Uses multiple small pellets and is commonly selected for upland hunting, waterfowl hunting with appropriate non-toxic loads, clay shooting, target practice, and other sporting applications.
• Buckshot: Uses a smaller number of larger pellets and is offered for hunting, personal-defense, law-enforcement, training, and other applications depending on load design and applicable regulations.
• Shotgun Slugs: Use a single projectile and are commonly available for hunting, target shooting, specialty applications, and use in compatible smoothbore or rifled shotgun barrels.
• Target and Clay Loads: Typically designed around manageable recoil, consistent shot patterns, and reliable performance for trap, skeet, sporting clays, and recreational target shooting.
• Specialty Loads: May include reduced-recoil loads, turkey loads, waterfowl ammunition, non-toxic shot, specialty hunting loads, and other application-specific configurations.

Choosing the Correct Gauge and Shell Length

Always use ammunition matching the exact gauge and chamber length specified for the shotgun. Common gauges include 12 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge, and .410 bore. Shotshells are also produced in different lengths, and a shell should never be used if its length exceeds the firearm's marked chamber specification.

Shot Size and Payload

Shot size refers to the diameter of the individual pellets contained within a shotshell. Smaller shot numbers generally indicate larger pellets within traditional birdshot numbering systems. Payload weight, pellet size, velocity, and choke selection influence pattern density and performance.

Slugs and Barrel Compatibility

Shotgun slugs are available in different designs for smoothbore and rifled-barrel applications. Foster-style rifled slugs, sabot slugs, and other projectile types have different compatibility requirements, so barrel type and manufacturer recommendations should be confirmed before selecting ammunition.

Hunting and Non-Toxic Shot Requirements

Certain hunting applications and locations require approved non-toxic shot such as steel, bismuth, tungsten-based, or other compliant ammunition. Hunters should confirm current federal, state, and local ammunition requirements for the species and area being hunted.

Ammunition Shipping and Restrictions

Ammunition shipping, age requirements, delivery requirements, and purchasing restrictions can vary by state and local jurisdiction. Customers are responsible for confirming that the shotgun ammunition they order is lawful to purchase, possess, receive, and use in their location.