Quick Answer
TSS loads are generally not recommended for upland game birds beyond turkeys, as they can result in excessive lead fragmentation and increased risk of lead toxicity to hunters and their companions.
Load Characteristics and Bird Weight
TSS (Total Shot System) loads are specifically designed to reduce lead fragmentation in turkeys, which typically weigh between 12-24 pounds. However, upland game birds such as pheasants, grouse, and quail typically weigh much less, ranging from 1-3 pounds. The reduced kinetic energy of TSS loads may not be sufficient to effectively humanely harvest these smaller birds, potentially resulting in longer and more stressful kills.
Effective Load Alternatives for Upland Game Birds
For upland game birds, it’s recommended to use traditional lead shot loads or non-toxic alternatives such as bismuth or steel shot. Lead shot loads with a smaller pellet size (such as 5 or 6) can be effective for birds such as pheasants and quail, while steel shot loads are often preferred for hunting waterfowl and other larger game birds. When choosing a non-toxic load, select a pattern with a higher pellet count (such as 30 or 40) to increase the chances of a clean kill.
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