Give the competition shooter in your life something they’ll truly appreciate this holiday season. From low-noise backyard plinking to high-performance sporting clays, these five top-tier ammunition picks offer quality and reliability that will impress even the most discerning marksman.
Federal Master Class Shotshells
Federal’s new Master Class shotshells are built for sporting clays and FITASC competitors seeking premium performance at a competitive price. With six 12-gauge options in No. 7.5 and No. 8 shot, Master Class features high-antimony lead, a Podium wad and straight-wall hulls, they are designed to smash tough targets with consistency and style. $15.99 per 25-round box, federalpremium.com
Winchester USA 250th Anniversary Ammo
Winchester’s USA 250th Anniversary ammunition series celebrates American grit with collectible packaging honoring the workers who built our nation. Featuring popular calibers like .22 Long Rifle, 9 mm Luger, .45 Auto and .30-06, this limited-edition release fires up patriotic pride ahead of the U.S. quarter-millennial in 2026. Price varies, winchester.com
Remington Low Decibel .410
Introduced at SHOT Show 2025, Remington’s Low Decibel .410 is a reduced-noise, low-velocity 2½-inch shell with 1/2‑ounce of No. 9 shot traveling at 650 f.p.s. velocity. Cycles in semi-automatics, pumps and revolvers reliably. Ideal for derringers, dog training, beginners, recoil‑sensitive shooters and snake defense. $30.99 per 25-round box, remington.com
Hornady 25 Creedmoor
Hornady’s 25 Creedmoor is a new .25-caliber option based on the 6.5 mm Creedmoor case, delivering reduced recoil and a high G1 BC (.645). Optimized for long, low-drag bullets with a 2.8-inch OAL to feed AICS mags. Factory loads include 134‑gr. ELD Match (2,800 f.p.s.) and 128‑gr. ELD‑X (2,850 f.p.s.). Around $43.99 per 20-round box, hornady.com
Remington .22 Short
Remington’s reintroduced .22 Short cartridges are perfect for plinking, pest control and training new shooters. Available in 27-grain hollow point and 29-grain round nose, these rounds deliver low recoil and minimal noise while maintaining reliable accuracy. Whether you’re expanding on impact or focusing on penetration, the .22 Short offers versatile performance for backyard shooters and varmint specialists alike. $7.99 per 50-round box, remington.com
