What is steel shot compared to lead?

Steel shot is indeed harder than lead. The hardness of steel shot provides several advantages in hunting and shooting applications. This increased hardness allows steel to retain its shape and maintain a tighter shot pattern upon firing, leading to more effective projectile performance.

Additionally, because steel shot is used for waterfowl hunting and is required in many areas due to environmental regulations that prohibit lead use, the increased hardness contributes to a more effective energy transfer upon impact with the target.

In contrast, lead is a softer material that deforms more easily, which can result in less effective ballistics when compared to the hardness of steel shot. The differences in material properties also highlight the importance of selecting the appropriate type of shot for specific hunting scenarios, ensuring both efficacy and compliance with hunting regulations.