The .410 bore is the smallest caliber of shotgun commonly available. Ammunition for this gauge comes loaded with various sizes of lead or steel shot, impacting the shell’s effectiveness for different applications. A common example is the use of smaller shot for targeting clay pigeons and larger shot for hunting small game.
Choosing the appropriate pellet size is critical for successful hunting or sport shooting. The smaller the shot size number, the larger the individual pellets. This gradation allows hunters and recreational shooters to fine-tune their ammunition selection for specific quarry or targets. Historically, lead was the primary material for shot, but due to environmental concerns, steel shot has gained popularity, particularly for waterfowl hunting. This shift has necessitated adjustments in shot size selection to maintain effectiveness, as steel is less dense than lead.