Is Federal field & range ammo bird shot?

[x007x]

I'm new to shotgun ammo. The ammo I got is Federal Field & Range 12 gauge. 3(1/4) dram eq. 1 oz, 7(1/2) shot. Is this type of ammo birdshot? It doesn't say on the box and my range doesn't allow birdshot which is fine.
Thanks everyone.

[A-R]

Yes, 7 1/2 is birdshot. This is the important number as it references the size of each piece of shot (lead or steel balls) inside each shell.

This chart is VERY helpful to understanding all this:



The other learning curve is chokes, and what they do to affect the pattern or spread of the shot and distance it will travel.

[A-R]

Also be sure you get the correct size "length" of 12 gauge shells for your gun.

Single shot or double barrel guns can (I think) shoot any length.

But self-loading (pump, semi-auto) shotguns may be limited to a particular length.

2 3/4 is most common and all 12 gauge self-loaders can shoot this
3-inch is bigger
3-1/2 inch is biggest and generally considered a "Magnum" load, I believe. Most used for high flying water fowl and turkeys needing more powder for more velocity to reach greater distances with large enough shot to bring down larger birds. I'm not a bird hunter, just relaying what I've heard.

For self defense, 2 3/4 is most common (either buckshot or slug) and often in reduced recoil loads - because at self-defense distances any size 12 gauge buckshot or slug is devastating - extra powder & velocity from 3- or 3 1/2-inch loads is overkill.

[berettadave]

I wonder what your range is considering "birdshot"? Could it be that they do not allow lead shot at all? I've heard of a few ranges around the country that only allow steel shot, that's why I ask. As far as shells designated "birdshot", they are not much different from "target" shells. The only real difference is the quality of components used. Target shells will often have more antimony in the lead used to make the shot harder. This helps keep tighter patterns for breaking clays.
All the ranges I have been to limit the shot size to 7 1/2 or smaller. This is simply for safety as larger shot travels much farther. This may be what your range is referring to when they say "no birdshot". I would check with them on this.

Dave

[A-R]

Berettadave thats an important distinction between "birdshot" and "target" loads I hadn't thought of late last night. And probably more apropos to OP's question. I - probably mistakenly - took his question to be one of understanding the various shot sizes.

[Mike1951]

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