Hi, Dean,
I've been shooting 28 gauge factory Bismuth shells for sometime now here in IL. On certain State land, it's now mandatory.
I am running low so I decided to buy some Bismuth from RotoMetals, Inc. in CA, get the rest of the components I need and reload them myself - no problem. There is a lot of data out there if I dig a bit. (This is a GOOD time of the year to prepare the loads for next fall season, anyway!)
Over my Brittany's and close points in heavy cover, a Spreader load, roll crimped works well. Then, the other barrel is a load of #4 Bismuth in a 7/8 oz. factory load. It works well on our quail & pheasant. On private land, the same load w/ lead shot works very well. I have tried HeviShot also, in other gauges, but it needs special heavy plastic wads to protect the bores. I think it's almost too much of a good thing and is unnecessary, except for turkey hunting maybe? HeviShot is too hard for my Parker bores to use, in my opinion - modern shotguns - OK. Bismuth is "easier' on the barrel interiors and very similar to lead shot, I've found. Boss Company even plates their Bismuth loads w/ copper now, for a factory shell.
One just does what he has to do. I've been loading 28 ga. ammo for a LONG time and using Bismuth just adds another dimension to it..!
These new 3/4 oz. Bismuth loads would work well for even grouse & woodcock in dense cover, I'm sure? I now keep the lead reloads for the Skeet range here. Some would not use them, but they do work and to each his own views.
I hope I answered your question OK, Dean? Stay healthy to you all in these pandemic times...!
Have fun and shoot well!
Wes
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