Shotgun Shells

Order shotgun shells online from a selection of trusted brands like Birchwood Casey, Browning, Challenger Ammo, ATI Ammunition, and B&P Ammunition. Iron Horse Armory offers a dependable lineup of shotgun shells built for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense in a wide variety of gauges, loads, and shot sizes. Our inventory pairs well with a wide range of shotguns, including pump action shotguns for proven reliability and semi auto shotguns for fast follow-up shots. We also carry shotgun magazines to keep you ready in the duck blind or on the clays course, plus gun parts for upgrades and ongoing maintenance.

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Shotgun Shells Buying Guide

Shop shotgun shells online by comparing options, checking current availability, and reviewing specifications such as gauge, shot size, shell length, and intended application. Shotgun shells cover a wide range of uses from upland bird hunting and waterfowl to clay sports, home defense, and tactical work, with options including birdshot, buckshot, and slug loads to match every shotgun and shooter.

Here’s what to look at before you stock up:

  • Match the gauge and shell length to your platform when shopping for shotguns in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, .410 bore, or other common chamberings.
  • Coordinate loads with pump action shotguns and semi auto shotguns depending on whether you need manual cycling reliability or fast follow-up shots.
  • Pick precision-friendly slug loads for bolt action shotguns and lever action shotguns when shooting deer or large game.
  • Stock traditional loads for break-action platforms like over under shotguns and side by side shotguns suited to upland hunting and clay sports.
  • Keep feeding reliable with quality shotgun magazines if your shotgun uses detachable feeding instead of a tube magazine.
  • Source replacement gun parts like chokes, recoil pads, and small components that affect how different shells perform through your shotgun.

Local And Compliance Notes

Buy shotgun shells online or visit our gun shop in Parker, Colorado to pick up loads in person. Iron Horse Armory also serves customers from nearby cities including Castle Rock, Franktown, Centennial, and Lone Tree.

Ammunition sales follow federal guidelines and applicable Colorado requirements, which can involve age verification and identification at the point of sale. Shipping timelines and carrier restrictions vary by product, so review checkout information carefully before placing your order.

Storage practices, transportation rules, and range protocols may differ based on circumstances. Contact the shop directly for clarification on purchase requirements, accepted identification, and current store policies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shotgun Shells

1. What gauge shotgun shells are most common?

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12 gauge is the most common shotgun shell, offering versatility across hunting, sport, and defensive use. 20 gauge is also widely available and produces lighter recoil for smaller-framed shooters.

2. Can I use any shells in my shotgun?

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No, shells must match the shotgun’s gauge and chamber length. Check the markings on the barrel before loading any ammunition.

3. What's the difference between birdshot, buckshot, and slugs?

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Birdshot uses many small pellets for hunting birds and small game. Buckshot uses fewer larger pellets for deer hunting and defensive use. Slugs are single solid projectiles for big game and longer-range shotgun shooting.

4. What does shot size mean on a box of shells?

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Shot size refers to the diameter of the individual pellets, with smaller numbers indicating larger pellets. For example, #8 shot is small for clay shooting, while #4 buckshot is much larger and used for deer hunting.

5. What shell length should I pick?

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Common shell lengths include 2¾ inch, 3 inch, and 3½ inch. Always match the shell length to your shotgun’s chamber, since longer shells can damage firearms not rated for them.

6. Are steel shot and lead shot interchangeable?

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Steel shot and lead shot have different ballistic properties, with steel often required for waterfowl hunting due to environmental regulations. Some older shotguns are not rated for steel shot, so check your owner’s manual first.

7. How should I store shotgun shells?

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Keep shells in a cool, dry place away from temperature extremes and direct sunlight. Sealed containers help protect rounds from humidity and corrosion over time.

8. Can I shoot slugs through a smoothbore shotgun?

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Yes, most smoothbore shotguns can fire rifled slugs designed for them. Sabot slugs are best used in rifled barrels or with rifled chokes for improved accuracy.