The Winchester Xpert WEXP12H4 delivers consistent lead-free performance for upland bird hunters targeting pheasant and similar game birds. This high-velocity 12-gauge load combines steel shot technology with Winchester's proven powder systems to maintain effectiveness while meeting non-toxic ammunition requirements.
What Makes This Different
Unlike traditional lead loads, this steel shot ammunition maintains high velocities through advanced powder formulations that compensate for steel's lighter density. The 1 1/8-ounce payload delivers approximately 15% more pellets than comparable lead loads, creating denser patterns at hunting ranges. Winchester's shot cup design reduces barrel wear while improving pattern consistency compared to standard steel shot shells.
Key Features
- High-velocity steel shot reaches 1,400 fps muzzle velocity for flat trajectories
- 1 1/8-ounce payload of #4 steel shot optimized for pheasant-sized game
- 2.75-inch hull fits all 12-gauge shotguns including older chambers
- Lead-free construction complies with waterfowl and non-toxic hunting regulations
- Advanced shot cup protects barrel rifling and improves pattern density
- Consistent primer ignition ensures reliable cycling in semi-automatic shotguns
- Bulk packaging with 25 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case (250 total rounds)
Field testing shows effective patterns out to 40 yards on pheasant-sized targets, with steel shot maintaining energy better than lead at extended ranges due to higher initial velocities. The #4 shot size provides optimal balance between pellet count and individual pellet energy for clean harvests on upland birds. This load functions reliably in gas-operated semi-automatics and pump-action shotguns across temperature ranges from 0°F to 120°F.
Technical Specs
- Gauge: 12-gauge
- Shell length: 2.75 inches
- Shot weight: 1 1/8 ounces
- Shot size: #4 steel
- Muzzle velocity: 1,400 fps
- Shot type: Steel (lead-free)
- Primer: Non-corrosive
- Packaging: 25 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case
- Manufacturer: Winchester Ammunition
- UPC: 020892027022
This ammunition represents Winchester's commitment to non-toxic hunting solutions without sacrificing terminal performance. The bulk case packaging offers significant cost savings for high-volume upland hunting seasons while ensuring consistent lot-to-lot performance.