Quick Answer
Tungsten is not particularly effective for waterfowl in open water hunting. Bismuth loads are often preferred for their visibility and aerodynamics. In open water scenarios, the goal is to create a large, visible spread that can be easily seen from a distance.
Tungsten Load Characteristics
Tungsten shot is extremely heavy and dense, which can be beneficial in close-range hunting situations where the shooter can control the distance and angle of the shot. However, in open water hunting, where birds are often flying at long distances and angles, the dense shot pattern can actually be a liability. Tungsten shot has a tendency to penetrate deeply into water, but it also has a high chance of passing through the bird, causing unnecessary damage and potentially making the bird harder to retrieve.
Bismuth vs Tungsten in Open Water
Bismuth shot, on the other hand, is designed to produce a larger, more visible spread at longer ranges. When loaded into shells, bismuth shot can create a spread of up to 30 inches, giving the shooter a much larger target to aim at. This is especially important in open water hunting, where birds are often flying at long distances and angles, making it difficult to judge the shot. Bismuth shot also tends to break apart more easily, creating a denser pattern on the water’s surface, making it easier to spot for both the shooter and the bird.
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