S&B .16/67.5 STEEL SHOTS 26 G

S&B Steel Shots 26 is a 16/67.5 gauge lead-free steel shot hunting cartridge. The 26-gram load consists of 3.30 mm steel pellets, and the manufacturer’s stated muzzle velocity is 360 m/s. The cartridge is primarily intended for use in areas where the use of lead shot is restricted or prohibited.

Suitable for use in

• 16 gauge smoothbore firearms

• Firearms with a chamber length of at least 67.5 mm

• Firearms certified for use with steel shot

• Use in areas requiring lead-free shot

• Hunting, provided the pellet size is appropriate for the game and complies with current regulations

• Waterfowl and other suitable small game hunting

• Pattern testing on targets

• For hunters who prefer a moderate 26-gram load in 16 gauge

Why choose S&B 16/67.5 Steel Shots 3.3 mm?

• Lead-free steel shot load

• 3.30 mm pellet diameter

• 26 g shot load

• Muzzle velocity 360 m/s

• Plastic wad

• Star crimp closure

• 8 mm high metal case head

• 25 cartridges per box

• Suitable for hunting areas requiring lead-free shot

• The manufacturer marks the 3.30 mm variant with the Steel Shot ⚜ symbol

Technical data

• Gauge: 16/67.5

• Cartridge type: shotshell

• Pellet material: steel

• Pellet diameter: 3.30 mm

• Shot load weight: 26 g

• Muzzle velocity: 360 m/s

• Wad: plastic

• Case: plastic

• Case head height: 8 mm

• Closure: star crimp

• Load type: lead-free steel shot

• Manufacturer’s table marking: ⚜ for 3.30 mm variant

• Intended use: hunting and use in areas requiring lead-free shot

Packaging

• Cartridges per box: 25

• Boxes per shipping case: 10

• Cartridges per shipping case: 250

• Shipping case weight: 10 kg

• Box dimensions not disclosed by manufacturer

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the designation 16/67.5 mean?

The number 16 indicates the firearm’s gauge, and 67.5 is the nominal case length in millimeters after firing. The firearm’s chamber must be at least this length, and the ammunition must match the firearm’s gauge marking.

Can this cartridge be used in a 16/70 gauge firearm?

Generally, a shorter 16/67.5 cartridge can be used in a 16/70 chamber, but only if the firearm manufacturer permits this ammunition and the firearm is suitable for this steel shot load. The compatibility of the barrel and choke with Steel Shot must also be checked.

Is the cartridge suitable for all 16 gauge shotguns?

No. The manufacturer marks the 3.30 mm variant with the ⚜ symbol. Before use, check the proof marks on the barrel, the firearm’s user manual, and choke compatibility. This is especially important for older firearms or those with unknown proof marks.

Does steel shot have the same effect as lead shot of the same size?

No. Steel has a lower density than lead, so steel shot of the same diameter weighs less and loses velocity differently in flight. The same diameter does not automatically mean the same pattern, range, or effectiveness.

What is the difference between the 3.05 mm and 3.30 mm variants?

A 3.30 mm steel pellet is individually heavier, but the same 26-gram load contains fewer pellets than the 3.05 mm version. Smaller pellets may produce a denser pattern, while larger pellets offer greater individual pellet energy. The actual result should be confirmed with a pattern test using your firearm.

Can the cartridge be used with a full choke?

Use only chokes that the manufacturer has approved for steel shot and the corresponding pellet size. Always check the choke marking, barrel proof marks, and the firearm’s manual before shooting. If in doubt, consult a gunsmith or the firearm manufacturer.

For which game is the 3.30 mm shot suitable?

Suitability depends on the species, shooting distance, your firearm’s pattern, and current hunting regulations. Always check local restrictions and perform a pattern test with your chosen firearm and choke before use.

When is S&B 16/67.5 Steel Shots 3.3 mm the right choice?

This cartridge is suitable for 16 gauge shotgun users who need a lead-free shot load and prefer larger 3.30 mm steel pellets. The moderate 26-gram load and 360 m/s muzzle velocity offer an alternative to traditional lead shot cartridges.

The smaller 3.05 mm pellet variant may be a better choice if you want more pellets and a denser pattern with the same load weight. The right variant should be chosen based on your firearm, choke, game, and actual shooting distance.

Expert recommendation

Before purchasing, check the caliber and chamber markings on your barrel and ensure your firearm and choke are approved for this Steel Shot load. Do not rely solely on the fact that your firearm is 16 gauge or has a 70 mm chamber.

Test the cartridge on a large pattern target at several realistic shooting distances. Evaluate the pattern's center, uniformity, and coverage, and compare different chokes if necessary. The shot pattern of steel and lead shot may differ significantly in the same firearm.

Lead-free 16 gauge hunting cartridge

S&B 16/67.5 Steel Shots combines 3.30 mm steel shot, a 26-gram load, and a muzzle velocity of 360 m/s. Product code V067722 designates this specific larger pellet variant, for which the compatibility of your firearm and choke with Steel Shot must be carefully checked before use.