MIRAGE TIN-ZINC .12/76 35 G

The Clever Mirage Tin-Zinc 12/76 is a lead-free hunting cartridge loaded with 35 g of tin-zinc-alloy shot. Its No. 3 pellets measure 3.5 mm in diameter and the listed muzzle velocity is 405 m/s. The cartridge is intended primarily for wetland hunting and other areas where the use of lead shot is restricted or undesirable.

Suitable for use

• 12-gauge shotguns with a 76 mm chamber and appropriate proof markings

• Hunting areas requiring lead-free shot

• Wetlands and their surrounding areas

• Waterfowl and small-game hunting where permitted by local regulations

• Hunters seeking an alternative to steel, bismuth or tungsten shot

• Situations in which 3.5 mm shot is appropriate for the quarry and conditions

• Pattern testing at 25 and 40 metres

Why choose Clever Mirage Tin-Zinc 12/76?

• Lead-free tin-zinc-alloy shot

• 35 g shot charge

• No. 3 shot with a diameter of 3.5 mm

• Listed muzzle velocity of 405 m/s

• Developed for use in wetland hunting

• More affordable alternative to many bismuth- and tungsten-based loads

• Pellets are described as retaining their shape without the brittleness associated with some bismuth shot

• Tin-zinc pellets are described as softer than most shotgun barrels and chokes

• Product information highlights consistent patterns at 25 and 40 metres

• Ten cartridges per box

Technical specifications

• Product code: 1217027

• Manufacturer: Clever

• Brand: Mirage

• Model: Tin-Zinc

• Product type: Lead-free shotgun hunting cartridge

• Gauge: 12

• Case length: 76 mm

• Cartridge designation: 12/76

• Shot-charge weight: 35 g

• Shot material: Tin-zinc alloy

• Shot number: No. 3

• Pellet diameter: 3.5 mm

• Muzzle velocity: 405 m/s

• Quantity: 10 cartridges

• Primary application: Wetland hunting and areas requiring lead-free ammunition

• Firearm compatibility: Subject to the firearm and choke manufacturer’s instructions and the firearm’s proof markings

Frequently asked questions

What does 12/76 mean?

The first number identifies the 12-gauge bore, while 76 indicates the nominal length of the fired case in millimetres. This cartridge must only be used in a 12-gauge shotgun whose chamber, proof marks and manufacturer’s instructions explicitly permit 76 mm ammunition.

Is the Clever Mirage Tin-Zinc cartridge lead-free?

Yes. Its shot charge consists of a tin-zinc alloy rather than lead pellets. It is intended as an alternative in locations where lead shot is restricted. Empty cases and other shooting waste must still be collected and disposed of responsibly.

Is it suitable for every 12-gauge shotgun?

No. Gauge alone does not establish compatibility. The shotgun must have a chamber of at least 76 mm and its proof marks and manufacturer’s instructions must permit the relevant load and shot material. Consult the firearm manufacturer or a qualified gunsmith if compatibility is uncertain.

Can tin-zinc shot be used through a full choke?

The product information describes tin-zinc pellets as softer than most barrels and chokes, but this does not guarantee compatibility with every choke. Always follow the restrictions specified by the firearm and choke manufacturers. Pellet softness does not override chamber-length or proof requirements.

How does tin-zinc shot differ from steel?

Tin-zinc alloy has different density, hardness and flight characteristics from steel. The product information highlights good velocity retention and pellets that are less brittle than some bismuth alternatives. Actual performance and pattern quality still depend on the individual barrel, choke and shooting distance.

Should the cartridge be pattern-tested before hunting?

Yes. A tin-zinc load may produce a different point of impact and pattern density from lead or steel ammunition in the same shotgun. Test the cartridge on a suitable patterning target at approximately 25 metres and repeat the test at 40 metres when relevant.

How many cartridges are supplied?

Each box contains ten cartridges.

Recommended products

• Alternative lead-free 12-gauge hunting cartridges

• Clever Mirage Soft Steel T4 12/70 cartridges

• Clever Mirage Soft Steel Magnum T3 12/76 cartridges

• Shotgun patterning targets

• Hearing and eye protection

• Shotgun cleaning equipment

• A dry, lockable ammunition-storage container

When is the Clever Mirage Tin-Zinc the right choice?

This cartridge is a practical option for hunters who require a lead-free 12/76 load and prefer tin-zinc-alloy shot to steel. The combination of a 35 g charge, 3.5 mm pellets and a listed muzzle velocity of 405 m/s is intended primarily for wetlands and other hunting areas where lead shot cannot be used.

A 12/70 cartridge must be selected for a shotgun limited to a 70 mm chamber. Another pellet size, load weight or shot material may also be more appropriate depending on the quarry, expected range and the pattern produced by the individual shotgun.

Expert recommendation

Pattern the cartridge through the intended barrel and choke at 25 and 40 metres before taking it hunting. Examine both the centre of impact and the distribution of pellets across the target. Do not extend the practical shooting distance solely on the basis of published performance claims—the usable limit is determined by the actual firearm, choke and cartridge combination.

Before loading, verify the chamber and gauge markings on the shotgun and inspect every cartridge for damage or moisture. Always wear eye and hearing protection, never fire at the surface of water or a hard flat surface, and collect spent cases after shooting. Store ammunition in a cool, dry and secure location away from unauthorized persons.

A lead-free 12/76 hunting load for wetlands

The Clever Mirage Tin-Zinc combines a 35 g tin-zinc shot charge, 3.5 mm pellets and a listed muzzle velocity of 405 m/s. It is a practical lead-free option for a correctly proofed 12/76 shotgun when the hunting location or the user’s preference calls for an alternative to lead shot.