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Top 5 Shotshells from Pheasant Fest 2023

The top shotgun loads to grab before the fall bird hunting season.

Top 5 Shotshells from Pheasant Fest 2023

Here is our short list of top-selected shotshells from Pheasant Fest 2023. (Photo By: Nathan Ratchford)

Fiocchi Golden Pheasant Bismuth Shotshells

Fiocchi Golden Pheasant Bismuth Shotshells
Fiocchi Golden Pheasant Bismuth Shotshells

Fiocchi’s new non-toxic Golden Pheasant Bismuth will have you confident and lethal on any rising ringnecks. The difference lies in their devastating high density 9.75g/cc bismuth that comes in a precision loaded, moisture resistant, sealed hull that will provide you with high impact results shot after shot. GUN DOG tested this load extensively in South Dakota last year, and we managed to hit hard flushing birds to bring them home to the dinner table.

$25 per 10 | fiocchiusa.com


Federal Premium HEVI-Bismuth Shotshells

Federal Premium HEVI-Bismuth Shotshells
Federal Premium HEVI-Bismuth Shotshells

With 15 percent high density bismuth over 85 percent steel pellets, Hevi-Hammer has approximately 50 percent more knockdown power than steel at 40 yards while still leaving you extra money for gas. Both the bismuth and steel feature the same shot size for the ultimate energy and downrange penetration. This lethal, fully non-toxic shotshell is perfect for public land where lead is prohibited or non-toxic is preferred and can even knock down some bonus North Dakota mallards for you without a hiccup. 

$35-39 per 25 | federalpremium.com


Winchester Rooster XR Shotshells

Winchester Rooster XR Shotshells
Winchester Rooster XR Shotshells

Upland hunters need as much reach as possible when flushing ringnecks burst from cover. Featuring unique Shot-Lok Technology, Rooster XR ammunition offers denser patterns and longer shot lethality for when the shot matters most. This lead load also offers far greater penetration at 50 yards, so you don’t have to chase cripples.

$36-$40 per 25 | winchester.com

Browning BXD Upland Shotshells

Browning BXD Upland Shotshells
Browning BXD Upland Shotshells

Browning ‘s BXD Upland is an absolutely lethal load on ringnecks that uses smoking hot, superior nickel-plated shot to make every flush count. Nickel plated shot helps keep shot far more round so patterns stay tighter. The results? Velocity that does not quit and added impact for the edge of your range. 

$28-$30 per 25 | browningammo.com

HEVI-Shot HEVI-Hammer Upland Shotshells

HEVI-Shot HEVI-Hammer Upland Shotshells
HEVI-Shot HEVI-Hammer Upland Shotshells

With 15 percent high density bismuth over 85 percent steel pellets, Hevi-Hammer has approximately 50 percent more knockdown power than steel at 40 yards while still leaving you extra money for gas. Both the bismuth and steel feature the same shot size for the ultimate energy and downrange penetration. This lethal, fully non-toxic shotshell is perfect for public land where lead is prohibited or non-toxic is preferred and can even knock down some bonus North Dakota mallards for you without a hiccup.

$35-39 per 25 | hevishot.com

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