Downloadable: Bismuth Field Package 12ga Load Data

Bismuth is back, and it is better than ever. Our new production lots of bismuth pellets are alloyed with 6% tin to produce stronger, high-density pellets of excellent quality, integrity, and ballistic capability. Our bismuth pellets are field tested to perform well for upland game and duck loads. Suitable for use in all types of shotguns, including smallbores and those with fixed choke barrels, BPI’s bismuth shot is quickly becoming the go-to non-toxic shot for America’s classic shotgunners.

This loading package is a personal favorite of the Curmudgeon and his beloved L.C. Smith shotguns. These high-velocity field loads maintain pellet lethality while operating at relatively low pressure. Hard hitting, yet light on the shoulder, these cartridges are lethal in the field and easy on the budget. All you have to supply is the powder.

Loading Tips:
Designed to be effective loads with minimal components, these recipes are quick and easy to assemble. Because there are no filler wads, they can be loaded using a single-stage or progressive press (we still recommend a single-stage press for all hunting loads). Note: it is important to keep in mind that bismuth shot and lead shot have different volumes by weight. This means that 1 oz. of bismuth shot does not occupy the same volume as 1 oz. of lead shot. Depending on the pellet size being used, bismuth shot will typically require using one bushing or charge bar size larger to drop an equivalent weight to lead shot. Always use a scale to double-check your shot drops.

If you are loading on a MEC press, we highly recommend using an Universal Charge Bar. This tool allows you to custom dial in your bismuth shot charge to achieve more accurate drops. Again be sure to check shot payloads with a scale.