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Winchester Blind Side 2 12 Gauge 3" #3 Steel Shot 1-3/8 oz Lead Free 25 Rounds
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$34.99
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SKU: XBS1233-020892026889
Overview
Built for hunters who want a lead-free waterfowl load, this 12 gauge 3" shell is loaded with #3 Hex Steel Shot and a 1-3/8 oz payload. The Hex Shot and DryLok Wad System are described as working together to promote tighter, more uniform patterns and consistent choke response, while the nickel-plated brass head is intended to help protect the shell in damp conditions. With a muzzle velocity of 1400 fps and 25 rounds per box, it suits field use where dependable patterning and weather-conscious construction matter. It is a straightforward choice for bird hunting when you want a modern steel-shot option without added claims beyond the listed features.
Why Hunters Choose the Winchester
Lead-free Steel
Shot option for hunters seeking
#3 Hex
Steel Shot in a 12
1-3/8 Oz
Payload and 1400 fps muzzle
Drylok Wad
Water-resistant, 4-petal wad
Nickel-plated Brass
Head for added protection in
Key Features
- 12 Gauge shotshells with 3-inch shells and #3 Hex Steel Shot
- 1-3/8 oz load with 1400 fps muzzle velocity
- Hex Shot technology is designed for tighter, more uniform patterns
- DryLok Wad System uses a water-resistant, 4-petal wad
- Nickel-plated brass head helps protect the shell from damp conditions
- Lead-free composition for hunters seeking a non-lead option
- 25 rounds per box
Best Used For
- Waterfowl hunters wanting 12 gauge lead-free loads for regulated hunting areas.
- Hunters seeking #3 steel shot shells for bird hunting applications.
- Shooters who prefer a 3-inch shell with 1-3/8 oz payload.
- Hunters in damp conditions who want nickel-plated brass casing protection.
- Users looking for a 25-round box for range or field preparation.
Specifications
| Bullet Type | #3 Hex Steel Shot |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 12 Gauge |
| Casing | Nickel-plated brass |
| Dry Lok Wad System | Yes |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Hex Shot Technology | Yes |
| Lead Free | Yes |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1400 fps |
| Rounds Per Box | 25 |
| Shell Length | 3" |
| Shot Material | Steel |
| Shot Size | #3 |
| Shot Weight | 1-3/8 oz |
| Wad Petals | 4 |
| Water Resistant Wad | Yes |
Pros
- Lead-free steel shot option for hunters seeking an environmentally friendly load
- #3 Hex Steel Shot in a 12 Gauge 3-inch shell
- 1-3/8 oz payload and 1400 fps muzzle velocity
- DryLok Wad System with water-resistant, 4-petal wad
- Nickel-plated brass head for added protection in damp conditions
- 25-round box for convenient range or field use
Considerations & Trade-offs
- This load is built around 12 gauge 3" shells, so it is only suitable for firearms chambered for that length and gauge.
- The #3 Hex Steel Shot and 1-3/8 oz payload are specialized for bird hunting applications, which limits versatility for other uses.
- At 1400 fps, it is a high-velocity load that may not be the best fit for every shotgun or choke setup without checking compatibility.
- The lead-free construction is a plus for compliance and environmental considerations, but it may not match the preferences of hunters who specifically want lead shot loads.
Suggested Comparisons
- Waterfowl shotgun ammunition
- 12 gauge shotgun shells
- Steel shot loads
- Lead-free hunting ammunition
Suggested Accessories
- Ammunition case
- Shotgun choke tubes
- Shell pouch
- Hearing protection
Frequently Asked Questions
What gauge and load is this Winchester Blind Side 2 ammunition?
It is 12 Gauge, 3" shells loaded with #3 Hex Steel Shot at 1-3/8 oz per round.
Is this shotgun ammunition lead-free?
Yes. The product description states that it has a lead-free composition.
How many shells come in a box?
Each box contains 25 rounds.
What features are listed to help with patterning and consistency?
The listed features are Hex Shot technology and the DryLok Wad System with a water-resistant, 4-petal wad. The description says these are designed to support tighter, more uniform patterns and improved choke response and consistency.
Does the product mention any protection for damp hunting conditions?
Yes. The description says it uses a nickel-plated brass head that protects the shell from damp conditions often encountered during hunting.