First Look: Winchester Introduces Xtended Range Bismuth Shotshells

by
posted on January 27, 2018
winchesterxtendedrange_lead.jpg

Waterfowl hunters have long had to deal with the shortcomings of steel shot—it doesn’t carry as well as lead, it doesn’t pattern as well as lead and it doesn’t hit as hard as lead. However, the toxicity of lead submerged in bodies of water is a reality, and is therefore off the menu. However, there are alternatives, which give good performance without endangering the ecosystem.

For 2018, Winchester has announced the release of their Xtended Range Bismuth shotshells, in 3-inch 12-gauge, loaded with 1 5/8 ounce of No. 5 Bismuth shot, at a muzzle velocity of 1,200 fps. Winchester has once again employed their Shot-Lok technology—which essentially uses an epoxy resin to hold the shot column in place, breaking apart during flight—to keep the pattern as tight as possible. It also prevents the bismuth shot from fracturing during the violent passage from chamber to barrel.

However, the Winchester Xtended Range Bismuth is not just a waterfowl load, it works perfectly as a turkey load, and even as an upland bird load in those areas where the use of lead shot is prohibited. It definitely seems that the need for lead-alternative ammunition is only going to rise, and it’s good to see companies like Winchester answering the call.

For more information, go to winchester.com.

Latest

Ledehenry SPD HUSH
Ledehenry SPD HUSH

Henry Repeating Arms Launches HUSH Series Optimized for Suppressor Use

Henry Repeating Arms has officially introduced the HUSH Series. This new line of suppressor-optimized lever-action rifle is the debut release from the company’s Special Products Division (SPD), a new R&D initiative focused on forward-thinking innovation.

Member's Hunt: A Tale of Two Treestands

This latest Member's Hunt comes from Erin Prajzner of Glen Rock, Pa.

New for 2025: Zeiss SFL 50 Binocular

Zeiss has presented its all-new SFL 50 binocular, an extension of the company's SFL family of binocular. It combines the optical performance of a 50 mm binocular, with the size and weight category of competitors’ 42mm frame sizes.

New for 2025: Savage AC30 B.O.B. AccuCan Suppressor

Savage introduces the AC30 B.O.B. (Back Over Barrel) suppressor, a great option for those looking to enhance balance and reduce overall firearm length while shooting suppressed.

First Look: Barnes Harvest Collection Ammunition

Barnes has debuted its Harvest Collection line of ammunition, targeted squarely at American whitetail hunters. Topped with the venerable Sierra Tipped GameKing (TGK) bullet, Barnes Harvest Collection is designed for maximal lethality on thin-skinned game, combining near match-grade accuracy with impressive terminal performance.

First Look: BANISH 30-V2

New from Banish Suppressors, the Banish 30-V2 is an upgraded version of the company’s popular Banish 30 suppressor that is shorter, lighter, quieter and more versatile than ever.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.