** 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. **
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.”
![Oconnor Small[67]](/media/bu2le2tp/oconnor-small-67.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=770&height=430&rnd=134126774953630000&quality=60)
![Oconnor Small[67]](/media/bu2le2tp/oconnor-small-67.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=150&height=150&rnd=134126774953630000&quality=60)
