Ammunition designed for shotguns with a 10-gauge bore typically uses lead shot pellets and is intended for target shooting. These rounds are characterized by their larger diameter compared to other common shotgun gauges like 12 or 20, resulting in a heavier payload of shot. This larger shot payload can be advantageous for breaking clay targets, particularly in disciplines like trap and skeet.
Historically, this ammunition size was popular for hunting larger waterfowl and game, but its use in modern hunting has decreased due to lead shot restrictions in many areas for environmental concerns. However, it maintains a strong presence in the target shooting community due to its effectiveness. The larger shot pattern provided by this specific ammunition type can offer a margin of error for shooters, increasing hit probability on fast-moving targets.