New Non-Toxic Ratshot Loads from CCI

Pests can be hard to hit and can often be found curled up in places where you do not want to put a big hole. Instead of conventional solid ammunition, you can take your pick using handgun caliber shotshells or ratshot loads. CCI has offered a lead ratshot load in calibers ranging from .22 LR to .44 Magnum. New for 2024 is CCI’s new Hevi Bismuth non-toxic ratshot load.

The Hevi Bismuth offering is a little different from CCI’s proven ratshot loads. It features a nonreloadable aluminum case with a polymer capsule that holds a measure of small shot in place of a single, solid projectile. The chief difference is that the conventional lead ratshot is replaced with a bismuth equivalent. Bismuth is an excellent choice for environments where lead toxicity in the environment is a concern, and it sacrifices the least compared to other non-toxic alternatives. Bismuth is similarly soft and dense to lead, making it easier on gun barrels, and performs better than options like copper or steel.

Whether you are scouting for your next hunt or simply want to get a pest out of the barn without damaging it, the CCI Hevi Bismuth non-toxic ratshot load is an excellent all-around tool to keep handy. The ammunition ships in packages of ten rounds and is available in 9mm Luger with 43 grains of No. 11 ratshot to .45 Colt, which uses 130 grains of larger No. 8 birdshot. Other calibers in this new lineup include .38/.357 Magnum, .40 S&W, .44 Special/Magnum, and .45 ACP. This new ammunition is now shipping and has an MSRP of $26.99 to $34.99, depending on your chosen caliber.