Tungsten Super Shot, or TSS, changed what hunters expect from a shotshell. Because tungsten is denser than lead and dramatically denser than steel, each pellet carries more energy and penetrates deeper, which lets reloaders drop to smaller pellet sizes and pack far more pellets into the same payload.

Density is the whole story

A denser pellet holds its speed and energy better downrange. That means a smaller TSS pellet can out-penetrate a larger lead or steel pellet, so you get a tighter, deadlier pattern with more hits on target. For hunters, that translates into cleaner kills at longer range.

Picking a shot size

For turkey, many reloaders run smaller sizes such as number 9 or number 7.5 to maximize pellet count while keeping penetration for a tom’s head and neck. For waterfowl, slightly larger pellets balance pattern density with the energy needed on bigger birds. The right choice depends on your gun, choke, and range, so pattern your loads before the season.

Reloading notes

Tungsten is hard, so use published TSS load data and wads designed to protect the barrel. Work only from tested recipes. For more on how tungsten performs across shooting and outdoor gear, see our sister company Tungsten Parts Wyoming’s work in sporting goods.

Frequently asked questions

What shot size should I use for turkey with tungsten?

Because tungsten is so dense, many turkey reloaders drop to smaller pellets such as number 9 or number 7.5 and still get deep penetration with a very high pellet count for dense patterns at range.

Why is tungsten shot better than lead or steel?

Tungsten is denser than lead and far denser than steel, so each pellet keeps more energy downrange and penetrates deeper. You can use a smaller pellet for more pellets per load without losing lethality.

Is Tungsten Super Shot safe to reload?

Tungsten shot is harder than lead, so reloaders use published tungsten load data and appropriate wads to protect the bore. Always follow tested recipes and never improvise pressures.