Latest Loads: The 2 3/4" 16-Ga. Shotshell

by
posted on July 5, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
16ga.jpg

Loads for the 16 gauge have long been scarce and lacking in variety, generally carrying payloads of similar weights and sizes of shot. Throw in the need for lead-free loads, and there are still fewer options. Only HEVI-Shot manufactures them using high-density, tungsten-based pellets—for about $4.50 per round.

The recipe here combines high velocity with extra-high-density shot—13 grams/cc—for a hard-hitting, yet mild-recoiling, load that’s suitable for a wide variety of locations and game, including waterfowl and turkey (within 30 yds.), yet costs about half of the aforementioned factory ammunition. Prepare to meet the “mean sixteen.”

Latest

Savage 110 Trail Blazer rifle in 22 Creedmoor
Savage 110 Trail Blazer rifle in 22 Creedmoor

Review: Savage 110 Trail Blazer Rifle in 22 Creedmoor

Savage’s new 110 Trail Blazer rifle offers top-shelf performance at entry-level pricing.

I Carry: Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro 9 mm Pistol in a PHLster Holster

In this week's episode of "I Carry," we have a Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro 9 mm pistol with a Meprolight MPO Pro-S red-dot sight carried in a PHLster Skeleton kydex holster.

The Armed Citizen® Jan. 16, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

FN Releases New SCAR Rifles & QD Suppressors

FN made headlines when it announced it would discontinue its legacy SCAR rifle platform in 2025, but for 2026, the design is back and better than ever.

Review: KelTec SUB2000 GEN3 In 10 mm

At long last, KelTec has answered customer requests for a more potent version of their folding pistol-caliber carbine with its SUB2000 GEN3 chambered for the 10 mm Auto cartridge.

Lowering Decibels For Less: Lyman's New Sonicore Suppressor Lineup

As 2026 shapes up to be the "Year Of The Suppressor," firearm manufacturers are racing their new designs to market, and one of the most affordable options out of the gate is Lyman Products' Sonicore line of suppressors.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.