The choice of the correct shot size is crucial for an ethical and effective hunt for small game. It influences not only the impact but also the shot pattern density and range. The shot size or grain size is given as the diameter of an individual pellet in millimeters (mm). The larger the number, the smaller the pellet diameter.
The following table provides a practical overview of which shot size is suitable for different types of game. It refers to traditional lead shot. For lead-free alternatives (e.g. steel or bismuth), a shot size one number larger is generally recommended.
| Game type | Examples / Type of hunt | Recommended shot size | Shot number |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🐦 Small game birds | Partridge, snipe, pigeon, crow (wing shooting, medium ranges) | 2.25–2.75 mm | No. 8–6 (commonly No. 7) |
| 🦆 Ducks & pheasants | Mallard, pheasant, coot (field or waterfowl hunting) | 2.75–3.25 mm | No. 6–4 (usually No. 5) |
| 🐇 Small game (hare, rabbit) | Brown hare, wild rabbit (field and driven hunts) | 3.0–3.5 mm | No. 5–3 (most often No. 4 or 5) |
| 🦢 Geese & larger waterfowl | Greylag, white-fronted, bean goose (long distances, wetlands) | 3.5–4.5 mm | No. 4–1 (typically No. 3) |
| 🦊 Predators | Fox, raccoon, raccoon dog (stand hunting, driven hunts, follow-up) | 3.5–4.0 mm | No. 4–3 |
| 🦌 Roe deer (exceptional cases only!) | Only for close-range finishing shots. Always observe local legal requirements. | 4.0–4.5 mm | No. 1–0 |
| Game type | 2.25–2.5 mm (No. 8–7) |
2.75–3.0 mm (No. 6–5) |
3.25–3.5 mm (No. 4–3) |
3.75–4.5 mm (No. 2–0) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pigeon / crow | x | ◯ | ||
| Duck / pheasant | ◯ | x | ◯ | |
| Rabbit | x | x | ◯ | |
| Hare | ◯ | x | ◯ | |
| Goose | ◯ | x | ◯ | |
| Fox | x | ◯ |
Legend: x = well suited · ◯ = depends on distance, choke, material, or hunting situation
Conversion Table – German Shot Sizes
| Diameter (mm) | Designation (No.) |
|---|---|
| 2.0 mm | No. 9 |
| 2.5 mm | No. 7 |
| 3.0 mm | No. 5 |
| 3.5 mm | No. 3 |
| 4.0 mm | No. 1 |
Important Notes on Shotgun Ammunition
- The ammunition box specifies the gauge (e.g. 12/70), case length, chamber pressure, shot material, and shot size.
- For lead-free ammunition (steel, bismuth, tungsten), it is usually advisable to choose one shot size larger.
- Pattern testing at 35 m shows how dense the shot pattern is – crucial for an even spread on target.
Practical Tips for Hunting
- Test your shotgun and cartridge pattern at 20–40 m to evaluate spread and effectiveness.
- The greater the distance, the larger the pellet size should be — especially for waterfowl and geese.
- Observe regional regulations: lead shot is often prohibited in wetland areas.
Note: This overview serves as a general guideline. For ethical hunting, factors such as weather, range, ammunition type, and choke constriction are equally important.
PDF download
The infographic showing all shot sizes and the corresponding game species is perfect for quick reference before a hunt.
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In the Hunting Sport online shop you'll find a wide selection of ammunition and matching hunting gear. As experts in reloading we offer the complete equipment. You will also find high-quality brass and bullets for precise handloading.
