Types of Shotgun Pellets Are Allowed for Waterfowl Hunting
Many hunters using a shotgun for waterfowl hunting may need to know what pellets are allowed and recommended. Lead-based shotgun pellets are not permitted for this purpose by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This blog post will explore the types of shotgun pellets allowed and why nontoxic pellets are recommended.
The USFWS currently prohibits hunters from using lead-based shotgun pellets while hunting waterfowl in the United States, as lead can be toxic to wildlife. Nontoxic shotgun pellets such as steel shot, tungsten varieties, and bismuth are all allowed and recommended instead. Steel shot is an economical option and is often used for ducks, geese, swans, coots, mergansers, snipe, doves, rails, gallinules and moorhens. Tungsten varieties are more expensive but offer superior performance over steel shots; they’re ideal for grouse and woodcock hunting. Bismuth is also a good choice when hunting small games such as quail or pheasants because it offers excellent patterns at close range with less recoil than other nontoxic shotshells.
It’s important to note that each type of shotgun pellet has its advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when selecting one appropriate for your needs. A duck uses steel shot more often than nontoxic alternatives. Tungsten shotshells are more expensive but offer superior performance; bismuth is better for shooting close to the target but has a limited range, thus not suitable for ducks or geese.
When choosing the right type of shotgun pellet for waterfowl hunting in the U.S., it’s important to consider cost-effectiveness and performance. Due to their potential to be toxic to wildlife, the USFWS has forbidden lead shots; however, there are several nontoxic alternatives, such as steel shot, tungsten varieties, and bismuth, that offer both affordability and superior performance. Be sure to consider all factors before selecting pellets for your next hunt so you can find the best one!
