Hevi-Shot Hevi-Hammer Shotshells 12Ga 3" 1-1/4Oz 1500 Fps #3 100/Ct
Hevi-Shot Hevi-Hammer shotshells deliver a practical blend of performance and value for waterfowl hunters who don't want to compromise on range or pattern consistency. These 12-gauge 3-inch shells load 1¼ ounces of shot at 1500 fps, combining a bismuth-enriched layer with steel shot to extend effective range beyond what steel alone can achieve. If you're hunting ducks and geese and looking to stretch your effective distance without paying full premium ammunition costs, Hevi-Hammer bridges that gap with a hybrid approach that's earned its place in serious waterfowlers' ammo cans.
The payload structure is the key to how these shells perform: 15 percent of the load is Hevi-Bismuth pellets (9.6 g/cc density), layered over an 85 percent steel foundation. That bismuth tier extends lethal range significantly compared to pure steel, delivering 38 percent more lethal range with #3 shot and allowing you to make confident shots at distances where standard steel patterns start to open up. The result is tighter clusters and more clean, ethical kills—especially important when conditions are cold or birds are working cautiously.
The #3 shot size in this load strikes a balance for mixed waterfowl situations, offering enough pellet count for good pattern density while maintaining the energy needed for reliable penetration. At 1500 fps, these shells deliver consistent velocity that keeps ballistics predictable across typical hunting ranges. Loaded 100 to the case, Hevi-Hammer gives you a practical supply for a season of serious hunting without the per-shot expense of full bismuth or tungsten loads.
Key Features
- Hybrid bismuth and steel payload—15% Hevi-Bismuth layer over 85% steel for extended effective range
- 12-gauge, 3-inch magnum chamber (standard 12ga 3" shotgun required)
- 1¼-ounce shot load at 1500 feet per second
- #3 shot size for balanced pattern density and penetration
- 100 shells per case for season-long supply
- Improved performance in cold weather conditions
Specifications
| Gauge | 12 |
| Shell Length | 3 inches |
| Shot Weight | 1¼ ounces |
| Shot Size | #3 |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1500 fps |
| Rounds Per Case | 100 |
| Payload Composition | 15% Hevi-Bismuth (9.6 g/cc), 85% steel |
Frequently Asked Questions
What shotgun do I need to use these shells?
Hevi-Hammer shotshells are 3-inch (also called 3-inch magnum) shells and require a shotgun chambered for 12-gauge 3-inch ammunition. Check your shotgun's marking—it will typically show "2¾" or "3"" on the barrel or receiver. If your shotgun is marked only for 2¾ inches, these will not chamber safely.
How does the bismuth and steel combination compare to full steel shot?
The 15 percent Hevi-Bismuth layer delivers 38 percent more lethal range than pure steel with #3 shot. This means tighter patterns and more reliable kills at the distances where steel shot typically starts to lose effectiveness, while the 85 percent steel core keeps costs reasonable compared to full bismuth or tungsten loads.
What birds and situations are these shells designed for?
Hevi-Hammer shells are built for waterfowl hunting—ducks and geese. The #3 shot size works across a range of waterfowl scenarios and pairs well with the extended range the bismuth layer provides. They're designed to perform reliably even in cold weather conditions typical of the waterfowl season.
How many rounds come in a box?
Hevi-Hammer shotshells are sold 100 rounds per case, providing a full season's supply for active waterfowl hunters.

