Quick Answer
Tungsten shot is worth the cost for serious waterfowl hunters due to its superior penetration and density, but it's not a necessity for casual hunters. Tungsten shot's benefits are most noticeable in heavy snow and ice conditions. Its cost is a trade-off for its performance.
Tungsten Shot Benefits
Tungsten shot is a popular choice among waterfowl hunters due to its high density and penetration power. With a density of 19.3 g/cm³, tungsten outperforms steel (7.9 g/cm³) and bismuth (9.8 g/cm³) shot. This means tungsten shot can maintain its velocity better, resulting in deeper penetration into waterfowl and reduced deflection upon striking. As a result, hunters can expect higher success rates when using tungsten shot.
Choosing the Right Tungsten Shot
When selecting tungsten shot, consider the gauge of your shotgun and the type of hunting you’ll be doing. For 12-gauge shotguns, tungsten shot is available in sizes ranging from 2 to 4.5, while 20-gauge shotguns typically use 2 to 3.5 sizes. For heavy snow and ice conditions, use the heaviest tungsten shot sizes available (e.g., 4 or 4.5) to maximize penetration.
Tips for Hunting with Tungsten Shot
When hunting with tungsten shot, keep in mind that it can be more expensive to reload than with other types of shot. To save money, use tungsten shot sparingly and focus on making clean, effective shots. Also, tungsten shot can be more difficult to clean from shotguns and waterfowl, so be prepared to invest in cleaning supplies and take extra precautions when handling.
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