HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition Up to $2.30 Off Review

Let’s Talk About **HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition

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The HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition promises to deliver superior performance for waterfowl hunters seeking longer-range capabilities. HEVI-Shot claims to have achieved this by layering bismuth pellets over steel, offering enhanced accuracy and lethality. Having spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear industry, I’ve learned that marketing hype often outpaces real-world performance.

My quest for the perfect waterfowl load led me to this product. I’ve grown increasingly frustrated with standard steel shot’s limited range and inconsistent patterns at longer distances. I was seeking a load that could ethically and effectively extend my reach, especially when dealing with pressured birds that flare at the slightest movement.

Upon receiving the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the shell construction. The crimp was tight and uniform, and the brass head appeared well-made; visually, they exuded confidence. Compared to Winchester Blind Side and Federal Black Cloud, both popular alternatives, the HEVI-Shot shells felt more densely packed, hinting at the promised payload advantage.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price point is definitely higher than standard steel, so the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range needs to deliver tangible performance gains to justify the cost. It was time to put these rounds to the test and see if they lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting **HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition

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First Use Experience

My first test of the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range took place on a flooded timber duck hunt in Arkansas. The conditions were typical for late-season hunting: cold, damp, and with a light drizzle. I was hunting from a submerged blind, targeting mallards that were wary and often circled at longer distances before committing to the decoys.

The first few shots were taken at ducks ranging from 40 to 50 yards. I immediately noticed a significant improvement in pattern density compared to my usual steel loads. Birds that would have likely been crippled with steel were cleanly taken down. The rounds cycled smoothly through my Benelli Super Black Eagle II, and recoil was manageable, feeling similar to standard 3-inch steel loads.

However, I did experience a couple of misfires in the first box. These weren’t complete duds, but there was a noticeable delay between pulling the trigger and the shell firing; that was concerning. This occurred twice in the first 25 rounds, raising a red flag about reliability, especially in critical hunting situations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, I put approximately 200 rounds of HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range through my shotgun. The initial concerns about reliability persisted, although the misfire rate seemed to decrease slightly. I still experienced approximately one misfire per box of 25, an unacceptable rate for serious waterfowl hunting.

In terms of durability, the shells themselves held up well to the elements. Even after being submerged in water for extended periods, they showed no signs of swelling or degradation. Cleaning my shotgun after using these rounds was no different from cleaning after shooting steel; there were no noticeable residue issues.

Compared to my previous experiences with premium waterfowl loads like Federal Black Cloud and Kent Fasteel, the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range offered superior long-range patterns, but its reliability issues were a significant drawback. While the knockdown power was impressive, the occasional misfires undermined my confidence in the ammunition. I found myself questioning whether the increased range capability was worth the risk of a potential malfunction, which is a trade-off no serious hunter wants to make.

Breaking Down the Features of **HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition

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Specifications

• Manufacturer: HEVI-Shot. HEVI-Shot is known for its innovative non-toxic shot alternatives, catering to hunters seeking enhanced performance.
• Gauge: 12. 12 gauge is the most popular shotgun gauge for waterfowl hunting, offering a good balance of power and pattern density.
• Number of Rounds: 25. A standard box of shotgun shells for hunting and sporting purposes.
• Shell Length: 3 in. 3-inch shells provide increased powder capacity, resulting in higher velocities and payload weights compared to 2 3/4-inch shells.
• Muzzle Velocity: 1500 ft/s. A high muzzle velocity contributes to flatter trajectories and increased energy on target at longer distances.
• Application: Waterfowl. Specifically designed for hunting ducks and geese, complying with non-toxic shot regulations.
• Shotgun Shot Weight: 1 1/4 oz. A heavier payload translates to more pellets in the pattern, increasing the likelihood of a successful hit.
• Shot Material: Bismuth. Bismuth provides higher density than steel, resulting in better energy retention and penetration at longer ranges.
• Primer Style: Centerfire. Centerfire primers are reliable and consistent, essential for dependable ignition in various weather conditions.
• Cartridge Case Material: Brass. Brass cartridge heads provide reliable extraction and resistance to corrosion.
• Lead Free: No. This ammunition contains steel and bismuth, and complies with non-toxic shot regulations for waterfowl hunting.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the ammunition’s performance and suitability for waterfowl hunting. The bismuth-over-steel construction aims to provide the best of both worlds: increased density and range from bismuth, combined with the affordability of steel. The 1500 ft/s muzzle velocity, while impressive on paper, needs to translate to consistent performance in the field, unhindered by misfires or erratic patterns.

Performance & Functionality

When it comes to performance, the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range delivers in some areas but falls short in others. The patterns at 40-50 yards are noticeably denser and more consistent than those produced by standard steel loads, resulting in cleaner kills and fewer crippled birds. This is likely due to the higher density of bismuth, which retains energy better than steel, leading to deeper penetration.

However, the reliability issues cannot be ignored. The occasional misfires significantly detract from the overall performance and create a sense of unease when hunting. The increased range capability is offset by the risk of a malfunction, making it a less-than-ideal choice for critical situations.

The ammunition meets its primary objective of extending effective range, but the reliability concerns prevent it from exceeding expectations. The promise of consistent performance at longer distances is undermined by the inconsistent ignition, which is a deal-breaker for many serious hunters.

Design & Ergonomics

The HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range shells are well-designed and feel substantial in hand. The crimp is tight and uniform, and the brass head is clean and well-formed. The overall construction exudes quality, except for the critical issue of consistent primer ignition.

The weight is comparable to other 3-inch 12-gauge shells, and recoil is manageable, even in lighter shotguns. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this ammunition; it loads and cycles just like any other shotgun shell.

Durability & Maintenance

The shells themselves are durable and weather-resistant. They can withstand exposure to moisture and rough handling without any noticeable degradation. Cleaning my shotgun after using these rounds is no different from cleaning after shooting steel, with no unusual residue or fouling.

With proper storage in a dry environment, these shells should last for several years without any performance issues. However, the long-term reliability of the primers remains a concern, given the initial misfire rate.

Accessories and Customization Options

As shotgun ammunition, the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range doesn’t have many customization options. The primary consideration is matching the shot size and choke constriction to the specific hunting situation.

These shells are compatible with any shotgun designed to handle 3-inch 12-gauge ammunition. The effectiveness of the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range can be further enhanced by using aftermarket chokes designed for steel or non-toxic shot, which can optimize pattern density at different ranges.

Pros and Cons of **HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition

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Who Should Buy **HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition

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The HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range is perfect for experienced waterfowl hunters who prioritize extended range and pattern density, and are willing to accept a slightly higher risk of misfires. It is also suitable for hunters who frequently encounter pressured birds that require longer shots for ethical and effective harvesting.

Hunters who demand absolute reliability and cannot tolerate any risk of misfires should skip this product. Beginner hunters, or those on a tight budget, may find the price point prohibitive.

A must-have accessory for maximizing the potential of this ammunition is a quality aftermarket choke designed for steel or non-toxic shot. Patterning the ammunition with different chokes is essential for determining the optimal combination for specific hunting conditions.

Conclusion on **HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition

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The HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range 12 Gauge 1 1/4oz 3in Shotgun Ammunition offers a compelling proposition for waterfowl hunters seeking to extend their effective range. The bismuth-over-steel construction delivers impressive patterns and knockdown power at longer distances. However, the inconsistent primer ignition and unacceptable misfire rate are serious drawbacks that cannot be ignored.

The price is justified if the ammunition performed flawlessly, but the reliability issues undermine the value proposition. While the increased range and pattern density are desirable, the risk of a malfunction makes it difficult to recommend this ammunition without reservation.

I would personally recommend this ammunition with a strong caveat: thoroughly test it in your shotgun before relying on it in a critical hunting situation. If you can consistently achieve reliable ignition and dense patterns, the HEVI-Shot HEVI-Metal Longer Range can be a valuable tool in your waterfowl hunting arsenal. However, if you experience similar reliability issues, it’s best to explore other options that offer greater consistency and peace of mind. Before you buy, be sure to weigh the benefits of added range with the inherent risk of a round not firing, as that could mean the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating day in the field.