Description
Glockswitchstore is a Boise, ID-based retailer specializing in ammunition and firearm components for the practical shooter. The CCI Big 4 Shotshell 38 Special Ammo 84 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds is a factory-loaded shotshell cartridge designed for close-range pest control. Its unique design delivers a tight, effective pattern from a standard revolver. This 200-round case is in stock and ships today for $200.00.
Reviewed by Cody Ramirez, E-Commerce Director at Glockswitchstore. 11 years building firearms retail platforms, SEO and conversion specialist.
Last updated: March 2026
What Makes the CCI Big 4 Shotshell a Smart Choice for Your .38 Special?
You’re looking at a specialized tool, not your everyday range ammo. The CCI Big 4 is engineered for one job: turning your .38 Special revolver into an effective, short-range pest control system. It’s the kind of load you keep on hand for snakes in the woodpile, rats in the barn, or starlings in the eaves. The 84-grain payload of #9 lead shot is contained in a plastic capsule, which protects the bore and ensures the shot column stays together until it leaves the barrel. This isn’t a substitute for a shotgun, but for its intended role inside 15 feet, the performance is precise and reliable.
Key Features of the CCI Big 4 Shotshell
- Plastic Shot Capsule: This is the core of the design. The capsule prevents lead fouling in your rifling and allows the shot to exit the barrel as a tight column before dispersing.
- #9 Lead Shot: At 84 grains total, this fine shot size creates a dense pattern ideal for small pests like snakes and rodents.
- Factory-Loaded Reliability: CCI’s consistent priming and powder charges mean predictable performance every time you pull the trigger.
- Standard .38 Special Dimensions: Loads and ejects just like any other .38 Special round, with no modifications needed to your firearm.
- 200-Round Case Quantity: Provides a substantial supply for practice and practical use, offering better value per round than buying small boxes.
CCI Big 4 Shotshell Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Shotshell Ammunition |
| Material | Lead Shot, Brass Case, Plastic Capsule |
| Manufacturing | CCI / Speer (Vista Outdoor) |
| Finish | Standard Brass |
| Hardness/Quality | Commercial Grade, Non-Corrosive Primers |
| Compatibility | .38 Special Revolvers (2″ and longer barrels recommended) |
| Installation/Usage | Load into cylinder as standard ammunition |
| Weight (per round) | Approx. 84 grains (shot payload) |
| Dimensions | Standard .38 Special OAL |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New, Factory Fresh |
| SKU | CCI-3620 (Case of 200) |
How Does the CCI Big 4 Stack Up Against Other Options?
| Feature | CCI Big 4 Shotshell | Budget Import Shotshells (~$70/case) | Premium Brand Shotshells (~$250+/case) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | Brass case, plastic capsule, #9 lead shot | Often mixed brass/steel, questionable capsule seal | High-grade components, specialized shot types |
| Quality & Consistency | High; known factory standards | Low; frequent duds or weak patterns | Very High; match-grade consistency |
| Compatibility | All .38 Special revolvers | May have extraction issues in tight chambers | All .38 Special revolvers |
| Shipping & Availability | In stock, ships USA from Boise | Long lead times, import delays common | Often limited runs, high demand |
| Lifespan / Shelf Life | Long-term reliable storage | Poor; primers can degrade quickly | Long-term reliable storage |
| Price Point | $200.00 per 200-round case | $60-$80 per case | $250+ per case |
CCI Big 4 Shotshell: The Honest Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✅ Effective for Intended Purpose: Delivers a tight, lethal pattern on small pests at close range.
- ✅ Bore Protection: The plastic capsule prevents lead shaving and fouling in your revolver’s rifling.
- ✅ Factory Reliability: CCI’s reputation for consistent ignition and performance holds true.
- ✅ No Firearm Modification: Works in any .38 Special revolver you already own.
- ✅ Convenient Quantity: A 200-round case means you’re set for the season.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited Range: This is not a long-range load. Effectiveness drops sharply beyond 10-15 feet.
- ❌ Specialized Use: It’s a poor choice for target practice or defense against larger threats. For standard .38 Special ammunition, see our .38 Special Ammo category.
- ❌ Cost Per Shot: More expensive than standard lead round nose for plinking.
Who Should Buy the CCI Big 4 Shotshell (And Who Shouldn’t)
Buy it if:
- You own a .38 Special revolver for ranch, farm, or rural property pest control.
- You need a snake load for hiking or hunting in areas with venomous snakes.
- You want a specialized, reliable tool for a specific job and understand its limitations.
- You value factory-loaded consistency over hand-loaded experimentation.
Skip it if:
- You are looking for general-purpose target or defensive ammunition. (Consider standard .38 Special loads instead).
- You expect shotgun-like performance at ranges over 20 feet.
- Your primary goal is the lowest cost per round for high-volume shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions About .38 Special Shotshells
What is the effective range of the CCI Big 4 Shotshell?
For reliable pest control on small targets like snakes or rats, keep your shots inside 10-15 feet. The pattern opens up quickly beyond that range, reducing effectiveness. It is not designed for birds or game at longer distances.
Will these shotshells damage the rifling in my revolver?
No, that’s the purpose of the plastic capsule. It contains the shot, protecting the bore from lead fouling. The capsule splits open after exiting the muzzle. You should still clean your firearm after use as with any ammunition.
Can I use these in a .357 Magnum revolver?
Yes, you can safely fire .38 Special shotshells in a .357 Magnum chamber. The performance will be identical to firing them in a .38 Special. Do not attempt to fire .38 Special shotshells in a .38 S&W or other non-.38 Special chamber.
What barrel length is best for shotshells?
A 4-inch or 6-inch barrel will generally provide better velocity and a slightly tighter pattern than a 2-inch snubnose. However, they will function in any standard barrel length. Longer barrels give the capsule more time to stabilize.
Are these good for home defense?
I do not recommend them as a primary home defense load. The limited penetration may not stop a human threat reliably. Their specialty is small pest control. For home defense, consider a dedicated .38 Special defensive hollow point.
Where can I buy .38 Special shotshells online?
You can purchase the CCI Big 4 Shotshell 38 Special Ammo 84 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds right here at Glockswitchstore (glockswitchstore.com). We ship nationwide from our warehouse in Boise, ID.
How should I store this ammunition?
Like all ammo, store in a cool, dry place. The plastic capsules and non-corrosive primers ensure a long shelf life when stored properly. Keep the factory case sealed until you’re ready to use them.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from Boise, ID
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
If the CCI Big 4 Shotshell is the right tool for your needs, you can add it to your cart with confidence. We have it on the shelf and can get it moving to you quickly.
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About this review: This assessment is based on product specifications, manufacturer data, and industry experience handling and discussing this type of ammunition with shooters. It is intended to provide a clear, factual overview to help you make an informed purchase decision.
Last updated: March 2026
Jennifer L. (verified owner) –
Ordered on Monday, had it by Thursday. Fit my Glock 26 with zero issues. Quality control is on point.
Vanessa K. (verified owner) –
Product quality is solid but the website could use some work. Hard to find what I was looking for at first. The CCI Big 4 Shotshell 38 Special Ammo 84 Grain Lead Shot 200 rounds itself? No complaints.
Leah J. (verified owner) –
This is my go-to store now. Third order, third time everything shows up fast and in perfect shape. Keep it up.