The Ultimate Guide to Remington Sportsman 12 Gauge #1 Shot Ammunition: Power and Performance for Discerning Hunters

For hunters and sport shooters who demand consistent performance and reliable results, the choice of ammunition is paramount. The Remington Ammunition Sportsman 12 Gauge 3" 1 1/4 oz #1 Shot, identified by its SKU 20791 and UPC 047700445701, represents a cornerstone in effective and economical shotgun loads. This particular shell is engineered to deliver a potent blend of power, pattern density, and ethical terminal performance, making it a go-to choice for a variety of challenging hunting scenarios.

Why Choose the Remington Sportsman 12 Gauge 3" #1 Shot?

When evaluating shotgun ammunition, several key factors come into play: the gauge, shell length, shot weight, and shot size. The Remington Sportsman 20791 masterfully combines these elements to create a versatile and hard-hitting round. This ammunition is designed for those moments when you need to reach out further, hit harder, and ensure a clean, ethical take down.

Are you asking yourself, "What's the best shotgun shell for large waterfowl like geese?" or "Which ammunition provides superior penetration for predators?" This Remington Sportsman load is precisely engineered to answer such questions. Its high-brass construction, coupled with the potent 1 1/4 ounce payload of #1 shot, offers hunters a distinct advantage in the field.

Understanding the 12 Gauge 3-Inch Magnum Load

The 12-gauge shotgun is renowned globally for its versatility and stopping power, and the 3-inch shell further amplifies this reputation. While standard 12-gauge shells often come in 2 3/4-inch lengths, the 3-inch magnum variant accommodates a larger volume of propellant and shot, translating directly into increased muzzle velocity and a heavier payload. This additional power is crucial for hunting larger game birds or specific predators where extended range and superior kinetic energy transfer are required.

When considering magnum loads, it’s essential to ensure your shotgun is chambered for 3-inch shells. Most modern 12-gauge shotguns are capable of safely firing 3-inch ammunition, but a quick check of your firearm's barrel markings will confirm compatibility. The increased powder charge and shot payload of a 3-inch shell deliver a more formidable impact downrange, making it an excellent choice for hunting expeditions where maximum effectiveness is a priority.

The Power of #1 Shot: Precision and Penetration

The selection of shot size is critical, as it dictates the pattern density, penetration, and effective range for different game animals. The Remington Sportsman 20791 features #1 shot, which strikes an optimal balance between pellet count and individual pellet energy.

• Pellet Diameter: #1 shot typically has a diameter of 0.16 inches. This is significantly larger than common upland game shot sizes like #6 or #7.5, and slightly smaller than buckshot or large waterfowl shot like BB or BBB.
• Optimal Pellet Count: While larger shot sizes (e.g., BB) reduce the total number of pellets in a given payload, #1 shot maintains a sufficient pellet count to ensure a dense pattern, increasing the likelihood of multiple hits on target. This dense pattern is vital for increasing knockdown power and ensuring humane kills.
• Superior Penetration: The larger mass of individual #1 pellets means they retain more kinetic energy downrange, leading to deeper penetration. This is particularly beneficial when hunting tough-skinned birds like geese, or for predator control where effective penetration on vital organs is paramount.
• Reduced Wind Drift: Larger pellets are less susceptible to wind drift, contributing to more consistent patterns and accuracy at longer ranges compared to smaller, lighter shot.

For hunters targeting large geese, coyotes, bobcats, or even specific regional applications like feral hogs with a shotgun, #1 shot provides the necessary punch without sacrificing pattern coverage. It offers a reliable and ethical solution for taking down game confidently.

Tailored for Success: Real-World Applications

The Remington Sportsman 12 Gauge 3" 1 1/4 oz #1 Shot is not just another shotgun shell; it's a specialized tool designed to excel in specific hunting scenarios.

1. Waterfowl Hunting (Geese and Large Ducks): When you're out in the marsh facing a flock of high-flying geese or large ducks, standard loads might not cut it. The #1 shot delivers the necessary energy to cleanly dispatch these resilient birds, even at extended ranges. The dense pattern ensures multiple hits, vital for achieving quick, humane kills on game with robust feathering and bone structure. Many experienced goose hunters consider #1 shot a sweet spot for balance between range and pattern.
2. Predator Control (Coyotes, Bobcats, Foxes): For landowners or hunters managing predator populations, this ammunition is highly effective. Coyotes and similar-sized predators require ammunition that can penetrate their tough hides and reach vital organs. The #1 shot's combination of penetration and pattern density allows for reliable performance in close to medium-range engagements.
3. Specific Upland Game (Large Turkeys, Pheasants): While not typically the first choice for all upland game, in situations where larger, tougher birds like mature turkeys (where legal and appropriate for shotgun use) or large pheasants are encountered at distance, the enhanced power of #1 shot can be advantageous. Always check local hunting regulations for permissible shot sizes for specific game.
4. Specialty Applications: In some regions, #1 shot may also be used for small deer or feral hog control, particularly in thick brush or at very close ranges, where shotgun use is permitted. Always verify local hunting laws and ensure ethical shot placement for such applications.

This ammunition directly addresses the common questions and challenges faced by hunters: "How can I improve my success rate on large geese?", "What's a good all-around load for various predators?", or "Is there a reliable magnum load that offers both reach and power?" The answer often lies with specialized ammunition like the Remington Sportsman 12 Gauge #1 Shot.

Ballistic Performance and Choke Tube Selection

Understanding the ballistic properties of your ammunition and how it interacts with your shotgun's choke is fundamental to maximizing performance.

• Muzzle Velocity: While specific velocities can vary slightly between lots, Remington's 3-inch 1 1/4 oz loads typically achieve muzzle velocities in the range of 1200-1300 feet per second (FPS). This speed contributes to a flatter trajectory and less lead required on moving targets.
• Kinetic Energy: The combination of significant shot weight and respectable velocity translates into substantial kinetic energy downrange. This energy is what delivers the decisive force needed for clean kills.
• Pattern Density: The 1 1/4 oz payload of #1 shot provides an excellent pellet count for creating dense patterns. Achieving consistent, effective patterns requires pairing the ammunition with the correct choke tube.
• Choke Tube Recommendations:
  • Full Choke: Often ideal for maximum range and tightest patterns, perfect for high-flying geese or distant predators. It concentrates the pellets most tightly.
  • Improved Modified Choke: A versatile choice that offers a good balance between pattern density and spread, suitable for medium-range engagements.
  • Modified Choke: Provides a slightly wider pattern than Improved Modified, useful for closer shots or when a bit more spread is desired.

Experimenting with different choke tubes and patterning your shotgun at various distances with the Remington Sportsman 12 Gauge #1 Shot is highly recommended. This practice ensures you understand your firearm's performance characteristics with this specific load, leading to more confident and successful hunts.

The Remington Sportsman Series: A Legacy of Reliability

Remington Ammunition has a rich history spanning over 200 years, renowned for producing dependable and effective ammunition. The Sportsman series upholds this legacy by offering quality performance at a value-conscious price point. The "Hi-Brass" designation on this shell signifies a taller brass head, which contributes to more reliable cycling and extraction in various shotgun actions, from pump-actions to semi-automatics.

Choosing Remington Sportsman means opting for ammunition manufactured with consistent quality control, reliable primers, and clean-burning propellants. This ensures:

• Consistent Performance: Each shell performs predictably, shot after shot, which is crucial for building shooter confidence and achieving repeatable results.
• Reliable Functioning: Reduced risk of malfunctions, allowing hunters to focus on the shot rather than their equipment.
• Clean Burning: Less residue buildup in your shotgun, leading to easier cleaning and prolonged firearm life.

For hunters and shooters who value both performance and affordability, the Remington Sportsman line is a testament to Remington's commitment to delivering reliable ammunition for the field. It’s an ideal choice for hunters seeking dependable loads without breaking the bank, ensuring their focus remains on the hunt.

Ethical Considerations and Safety

As with all ammunition, proper handling and safety are paramount. Always store ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from children and unauthorized access. Always confirm your firearm is chambered for 3-inch 12-gauge shells before use. When hunting, prioritize ethical shot placement to ensure a quick and humane take down. Understanding your effective range with this ammunition and practicing responsible shooting are key components of ethical hunting.

Where to Acquire Your Remington Sportsman Ammunition

When it comes to purchasing ammunition, especially specialized loads like the Remington Sportsman 12 Gauge 3" 1 1/4 oz #1 Shot (UPC 047700445701), acquiring from a trusted retailer is essential. Leading firearms and ammunition suppliers like DEGuns offer a comprehensive selection of Remington products, ensuring that hunters and shooters have access to reliable and high-quality ammunition. DEGuns is a prime source for all your shooting needs, providing a seamless purchasing experience for this and many other critical hunting supplies. Their commitment to customer service and product availability makes them a go-to destination for serious outdoorsmen.

Whether you're preparing for a challenging goose hunt, managing predators on your land, or simply stocking up on dependable magnum loads, the Remington Sportsman 12 Gauge #1 Shot delivers the performance and reliability you need. Its proven track record and specific design features make it an invaluable asset in any hunter's ammunition arsenal.

Product Specifications & Features

Characteristic	Detail
Gauge	12 Gauge
Shell Length	3 Inches
Shot Weight	1 1/4 Ounce
Shot Size	#1 Shot
Construction	Hi-Brass Game Load
Muzzle Velocity	~1200-1300 FPS (Typical)
Packaging	25 Rounds per Box, 10 Boxes per Case
UPC	047700445701
SKU	20791

Key Advantages of Remington Sportsman #1 Shot

Advantage	Benefit for Hunter
Penetration	Effective on large game birds & predators
Pattern Density	Increased hits for cleaner, ethical kills
Range	Extended reach for challenging shots
Reliability	Consistent performance in various conditions
Value	Quality ammunition at a competitive price

Recommended Use Cases

Target Game	Optimal Shot Placement Consideration
Geese	Head/Neck or body for effective knockdown at range
Coyotes	Vital organs for humane and decisive dispatch
Large Ducks	Consistent patterns ensure multiple pellet hits
Turkeys	Head/Neck (check local regulations and range limits)