Winchester Marks 60th Anniversary Of AA Shotshell As Mainstay For Clay-Target Shooters

Since its introduction in 1965, Winchester Ammunition’s AA shotshell has been a favorite for clay-target champions and shotgun enthusiasts alike. In 2025, Winchester is celebrating the six-decade history of its AA target loads with limited-edition commemorative packaging.

When the AA target load debuted 60 years ago, it was a game changer for clay-target shooters, with a rare combination of affordability, durability and reliability.

Team Winchester shooter Dania Vizzi is among the world’s best skeet shooters after garnering several international podium finishes and competing for Team USA at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her shotshell of choice is Winchester’s AA target load. (Photos courtesy of Winchester)

Revolutionary at the time, the Winchester AA had one feature that really made it a performer—hard shot. Combine that with a one-piece plastic wad and an extremely strong hull made of high-strength polymer that will last for many reloads, and it’s easy to see why the AA target load remains a mainstay in the world of trap and sporting-clays shooting.

More from Winchester Ammunition about the AA target load: “Utilizing the best components, this shell is made entirely in the United States by American workers for American shooters. Winchester AA target loads use lead shot alloyed with antimony making them the hardest hitting loads on the market. Combined with AA wad technology and best-in-class primer and powder, this shotshell provides the most consistent patterns, shot after shot making it the ‘Choice of Champions’ for all clay-shooting disciplines.”

Winchester’s AA 60th anniversary target loads for 2025 include three 12-gauge options, all 2¾-inch size: Light Target (1,145 f.p.s. muzzle velocity), Super-Handicap Heavy Target (1,250 f.p.s. muzzle velocity) and Super Sport Target (1,300 f.p.s. muzzle velocity). (Photo courtesy of Winchester)

Winchester’s leadership position in clay-target sports is anchored by the venerable AA shotshell. For 60 years, Winchester AA target loads have been used at all levels of competition, including local shooting leagues, the Grand American, NSCA National Championship, World Sporting Clays Championship, World FITASC and the Olympics.

Team Winchester’s Desi Edmunds with AA shotshells at a sporting-clays match. Since 1965, the Winchester AA has been the choice of enthusiasts and champions. (Photo courtesy of Winchester)

As previously mentioned, to celebrate this milestone, Winchester is launching limited-edition commemorative AA shotshell 60th anniversary packaging in 2025. Be on the lookout for it at a retailer near you.

Learn more about Winchester Ammunition and the 60th anniversary of the AA target load at winchester.com.