[ HUNTING AMMO // 12 GA ]

The most common hunting gauge. Loads for every game we cover, including waterfowl steel, turkey, upland, slugs, and buckshot. Choose the animal you are hunting to see the shot size and material we recommend, plus a link to shop matching ammo.

[ 01 / 12 GA ]

Non-toxic shot only. Steel, bismuth, or tungsten — never lead.

[ 02 / 12 GA ]

Non-toxic only. Larger steel (BB–T) or dense bismuth/tungsten.

[ 03 / 12 GA ]

Lead #4–#6 or TSS #7–#9. In NY, shot must be #2 through #8.

[ 04 / 12 GA ]

Lead #4–#6, or bismuth where non-toxic is required.

[ 05 / 12 GA ]

Lead #7½ or #8, open choke; #6 for late grouse.

[ 06 / 12 GA ]

Lead #7½ or #8, open choke.

[ 07 / 12 GA ]

Lead #7½ or #8; steel or bismuth where the land requires non-toxic.

[ 08 / 12 GA ]

Lead #6 is the all-around size; #7½ up close, #4–#5 in thicker cover.

[ 09 / 12 GA ]

In New York: 20 gauge or larger, slug only — no buckshot. .410 is not legal.

[ 10 / 12 GA ]

Buckshot or a turkey load at modest range; slugs for selected longer shots.

Questions? Call (631) 985-5527 — 38 W Main St, Riverhead. This is hunting advice, not legal advice; check current DEC and USFWS rules for the land you hunt.