blyhagel

Blyhagel is a Swedish term that translates to "hail of lead" or "shotgun pellet." It refers to the projectiles fired from a shotgun, typically small, spherical pellets made of lead or other metals. These pellets are contained within a shotgun shell and are dispersed upon firing, creating a spread that can hit multiple targets within a certain range.

The use of blyhagel is common in hunting, particularly for small game and birds. The widespread nature of the pellets increases the probability of hitting a fast-moving target. In sport shooting, blyhagel is used in disciplines such as skeet and trap. The size and material of the blyhagel can vary depending on the intended application, with smaller pellets used for smaller game and larger, heavier pellets for larger game or waterfowl.

Concerns about lead poisoning have led to the development and increasing use of alternative materials for shotgun pellets, such as steel, bismuth, and tungsten. These alternatives are often mandated in certain hunting areas, especially those designated as wetlands, to protect wildlife and the environment from lead contamination. Despite the alternatives, lead blyhagel remains in use in many contexts due to its cost-effectiveness and performance characteristics. The term blyhagel itself specifically denotes lead pellets, distinguishing them from non-lead alternatives.