Lead, steel, bismuth shot?? Newbie needs help!

[N7XW]

Here's my story...
I'm a rifle guy.  Don't do much shooting with handguns and even less with shotguns.  Haven't even owned a shotgun since I was a kid.

Found a deal on a new 12 gauge today I couldn't pass up.  But I have no idea what type of shot to shoot, or even what is legal to hunt with.  I remember when the lead shot ban started people said steel shot would damage barrels.

So here are my questions.....

What types of shot are available?
Does steel damage barrels?
Is lead allowed for waterfoul or upland?
What is the best type to use?

[Bob33]

Steel is the least expensive lead substitute. It is harder than lead and may damage some older barrels, especially with extensive use.

Lead is illegal for all waterfowl and for upland birds in areas designated as non-toxic.

[dwils233]

Bismuth is expensive and uncommon, as are some other "exotic" loads like tungsten. It's usually cheaper to just load your own shells at that point.

If it's a new shotgun, it's probably worth just getting comfortable with a steel shot and shooting that exclusively. Then you never have to worry about it

[N7XW]

Good info.  Thanks guys, appreciate it.

[Henrydog]

Also don't forget to Never shoot Steel shot with a full choke.  Steel patterns tighter and can bulge are tight choked gun

[h2ofowlr]

What shotgun did you buy and what choke does it have?  Fixed or screw in?