CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC Review

Let’s Review the CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC

For anyone dealing with close-range pests or varmints, especially in areas where traditional firearms might be overkill or impractical, handgun shotshells offer a unique solution. I recently found myself in need of a more potent, yet still contained, option for situations where standard .44 Special loads felt a bit too powerful for the task at hand, and lighter shotshells lacked the necessary punch. This led me to the CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC. I was initially drawn to its promise of extending the range and effectiveness of handgun shotshells, particularly with the inclusion of No. 4 lead shot.

My previous experience with handgun shotshells has been primarily limited to the ubiquitous birdshot loads, which are fine for very small vermin at exceptionally close ranges. However, I’d encountered situations involving slightly larger pests, like rats or larger squirrels, where the spread was too wide or the energy too low to ensure a clean dispatch. I considered other brands offering similar handgun shotshells, but CCI’s reputation for quality and their specific mention of a more potent payload caught my attention. My first impression upon handling these rounds was their solid construction; they felt substantial, a good sign for reliable performance. There was a definite sense of relief and curiosity, hoping these would bridge the gap I’d been experiencing.

Real-World Testing: Putting CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing occurred at a semi-rural property where rodent control was becoming an ongoing concern. I loaded these CCI Big 4 shotshells into my trusted .44 Special revolver, aiming for specific targets at ranges extending out to about 10-15 yards. The environmental conditions were typical for late spring: mild temperatures and dry weather, which are ideal for testing ammunition without external factors interfering.

The performance was immediately noticeable compared to lesser shotshell loads. The pattern was tighter than expected for a shotshell at that range, delivering a concentrated impact zone. I experienced no functioning issues whatsoever; the rounds fed smoothly from the cylinder and ejected cleanly after firing. My only minor surprise was how much more authority these rounds carried, confirming their effectiveness for slightly larger pests than typical birdshot is suited for.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of intermittent use, these CCI shotshells have consistently performed. I’ve used them during early morning patrols around outbuildings and during evening excursions to address persistent garden pests. Despite being stored in a standard ammunition can, exposed to occasional temperature fluctuations and humidity, I haven’t noticed any degradation in performance.

The durability of the cartridges themselves is evident. I’ve yet to encounter any duds, misfires, or signs of casing fatigue, even with repeated cycling through the firearm. Maintenance for these rounds is, of course, minimal; they require no cleaning or special care beyond proper storage. Compared to some other handgun shotshells I’ve used, which could sometimes feel a bit flimsy or inconsistently loaded, these CCI rounds feel like a significant step up in overall quality and reliability. They consistently deliver the expected performance without any fuss.

Breaking Down the Features of CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC

Specifications

The CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC comes in a 10-round reusable box, which is a practical touch for storage and transport. Each cartridge is a centerfire pistol shotshell designed for the .44 Special caliber. The payload consists of 110 grains of No. 4 lead shot, which is a key differentiator from standard birdshot loads.

The muzzle velocity is rated at 1000 ft/s, delivering 244 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. This combination of shot size and energy output is specifically engineered for pest control and varmint applications, extending the effective range beyond conventional handgun shotshells. The casing material is listed as aluminum, which is a bit unusual but seems to function without issue. This higher energy and shot density translate directly into more effective energy transfer and a tighter pattern at moderate distances, making them more versatile for various close-range threats.

Performance & Functionality

In practical terms, these shotshells excel at their intended purpose: close-range pest control. The No. 4 lead shot creates a denser, more energetic pattern than typical birdshot, allowing for more consistent hits and sufficient energy transfer for small to medium-sized pests. At ranges up to 15 yards, the patterns remained sufficiently tight for effective dispatch.

The primary strength is undoubtedly the increased effectiveness due to the larger shot size and higher energy. This allows for a more humane and efficient takedown of pests that might otherwise be difficult to manage with lighter shotshells. A potential weakness, inherent to all shotshells, is the rapid loss of effectiveness beyond optimal range; however, for their intended application, these rounds perform admirably. They meet and, in my experience, exceed expectations for a .44 Special shotshell.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC is focused on function. The brass-colored aluminum casing stands out visually, and the overall construction feels robust and well-made. There’s a noticeable crimp at the mouth of the casing, designed to reliably deploy the shot payload.

Ergonomically, when loaded into a .44 Special revolver, they handle like any other cartridge of similar length. There is no special grip or handling required beyond standard firearm safety procedures. The clear markings on the casing indicate the caliber and manufacturer, which is always appreciated. The overall feel is one of dependable quality.

Durability & Maintenance

These shotshells are designed for a single-use application, and their durability is measured in their shelf life and consistent performance over time. Based on my experience, they are built to last in storage for many years under proper conditions. The construction appears robust enough to withstand typical ammunition storage environments without degradation.

Maintenance is essentially non-existent for the ammunition itself. Proper cleaning of the firearm after use is the only real consideration. There are no apparent failure points inherent to the design or materials that would suggest premature obsolescence or failure in normal use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC comes packaged in a reusable box of 10 shotshells. This reusable box is a practical accessory that helps keep the ammunition organized and protected. There are no other included accessories or direct customization options for the ammunition itself.

However, the true “customization” comes from the firearm it’s used in. These rounds are designed to function in any firearm chambered in .44 Special or .44 Magnum that can safely chamber and fire shotshells. Compatibility with standard revolver cylinders is the primary functional interface.

Pros and Cons of CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC

Who Should Buy CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC?

This particular ammunition is ideally suited for individuals who regularly deal with small to medium-sized pests and varmints in areas where a handgun is the preferred tool. This includes homeowners in rural or semi-rural settings who need to manage rodents, snakes, or other nuisance animals around their property. It’s also a good option for shooters who own .44 Special revolvers and want a dedicated load for specific pest control tasks without resorting to full-power jacketed rounds.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals looking for general self-defense ammunition, long-range varmint hunting rounds, or those in jurisdictions that restrict lead ammunition. If your pest problem exclusively involves tiny insects, lighter birdshot loads might be more appropriate and cost-effective. A sturdy .44 Special revolver or a firearm capable of chambering it safely is a must-have. I also recommend carrying a few of these rounds alongside your standard defensive or target loads if you anticipate encountering pest issues during a range session or property walk.

Conclusion on CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC

The CCI Ammunition Pest Control Big 4 Shotshell .44 Special 110 Grain Brass Centerfire Pistol Ammunition 3718CC stands out as a highly effective and specialized round for its intended purpose. It successfully bridges the gap between typical birdshot loads and more powerful handgun cartridges, offering enhanced energy and a more useful pattern density for dealing with a broader range of close-range pests. The 110 Grain No. 4 lead shot payload, coupled with CCI’s reputation for quality, makes these a reliable choice.

At a price point of $28.09 for a 10-round box, the value proposition is strong for those who need this specific capability. It’s a premium option in the handgun shotshell category, and the performance justifies the cost for effective pest management. I would absolutely recommend these rounds to anyone who finds themselves facing pests that are just a bit too robust for standard shotshells, and who owns a suitable firearm. If you have a .44 Special revolver and a need for a more potent pest control solution, these Big 4 shotshells are an excellent investment that delivers on its promise.