Description
CCI Big 4 45 Colt Shotshell #4 ammunition gives .45 Colt owners a dependable answer to snakes, rodents and other pests at close range. CCI Big 4 loads extend the range and capability of its centerfire handgun shotshells. CCI builds them with a shot capsule that holds a payload of fine pellets, and this load carries 140 grains of number 4 lead shot at a rated 850 feet per second. The lead payload delivers dense, effective patterns at the short distances where most pest encounters happen.

Why Owners Carry This 45 Colt Big 4 Shotshell
- 140 grains of #4 lead shot
- Rated 850 fps
- Built on CCI’s proven centerfire shotshell design
- Aluminum case, not reloadable
- Reusable box of 10 rounds, CCI 3722CC
CCI Big 4 45 Colt Shotshell #4 Features
- Effective on snakes, rats and other small pests at close range
- Lower risk of long-range travel than a solid bullet
- Useful for hikers, campers, ranchers and gardeners
- Dense lead pattern for reliable results
Where legal, some hunters also use handgun shotshells for small game at very close range, such as a grouse or squirrel on the ground a few feet away. Check local hunting regulations first, since some areas restrict or prohibit this. For most owners, though, the main role of this ammunition is peace of mind on the trail, around the barn and at the campsite.
CCI has made handgun shotshells for decades, and they remain a staple for hikers, fishermen, farmers and ranchers who share ground with rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths. A single shot of fine pellets at close range is often a safer and more certain option than trying to hit a small, moving target with a single bullet.
These shells are not intended for self-defense against people or large animals. Keep them for pests and small animals at very close range, and carry standard defensive or hunting ammunition for anything else.
Clean your firearm after shooting shotshells, since shot capsule material and residue can foul the bore and cylinder more than standard bullets. A quick pass with a bore snake keeps accuracy consistent when you switch back to regular ammunition.
Specifications
- Brand: CCI
- Product Line: Pest Control Handgun Shotshell
- Caliber: .45 Colt
- Shot Size: #4
- Shot Material: Lead
- Payload: 140 grains
- Velocity: 850 fps
- Case: Aluminum, non-reloadable
- Quantity: 10 rounds
- CCI Item: CCI 3722CC
- UPC: 604544618136
Using a Handgun Shotshell Effectively
A handgun shotshell is a close-range tool. The fine pellets spread quickly, so this snake shot ammo is most effective within a few yards, which is where most encounters with venomous snakes and rodents happen. Patterns vary a great deal between guns, so test yours on paper at 3, 5 and 7 yards before relying on it.
Shotshells may not generate enough recoil to cycle every semi-automatic pistol, so plan on using them as single shots or in revolvers unless you have confirmed reliable function. Many owners keep the first round or two in the magazine or cylinder as shotshells, followed by standard ammunition.
Owners of .45 Colt revolvers and lever rifles, including .45 Colt/.410 revolvers, who hike, fish, hunt or work in snake country will get the most from this load. Big 4 uses larger number 4 shot than standard handgun shotshells, which CCI says extends range and capability on larger pests. Always wear eye protection, since small pellets can bounce off rocks and hard surfaces, and follow all federal, state and local laws.
Store this ammunition in a cool, dry place in its reusable box. Many owners keep a box in the truck, tackle box or backpack so it is always within reach during warm months when snakes are active.
Browse the MAG5 Firearms ammunition selection for more handgun loads, and visit CCI Ammunition for full product details.






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