New CCI Hevi-Bismuth Load: Pests, Beware!

Got a pest problem? CCI doesn’t want you to call the exterminator—they want you to reach for your handgun, and load it up with Hevi-Bismuth shotshells.

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The Hevi-Bismuth Solution

Hevi-Bismuth is a non-toxic material used to make shotshell pellets with a density that’s roughly the same as lead. CCI’s PR says “At 9.6 g/cc, the shot carries nearly the same density and downrange energy of lead but adheres to all non-toxic ammunition requirements.” That means more hitting power downrange if everything else is equal. CCI must figure that the rats or pigeons or whatever you’re blasting out of your grain silo or chicken coop can use the extra heat. Or maybe, you’ve got a rattlesnake or other varmint that needs to be taken care of, and you want to be sure you’ve got enough hitting power for the job.

Some shooters may also prefer to shoot softer bismuth shot from their rifled barrels, rather than the steel shot that affordable non-toxic shells use.

Because, remember that these shells are intended to be used in pistols. They come in 9x19mm, .38 Special/.357 Magnum, .44 Special/.44 Magnum, .45 Long Colt, .40 Smith & Wesson and .45 ACP. Pricing ranges from $27.99 for the 9x19mm loads to $32.99 for the .45 ACP loads. They come in 10-round boxes, so they aren’t cheap shells. All these shells are loaded with the #8 shot except for the 9x19mm loads, which come with the #11 shot.

Remember that these are short-range loads, not intended for use at the same ranges as a standard load in a shotgun.

For more info, or to find local gun store availability, check out CCI’s website.