What is the difference in a shank ham and a picnic shoulder?

A shank ham comes from the lower leg portion of the pig, typically resulting in a cut that is more tender and has a higher fat content, often smoked or cured for flavor. In contrast, a picnic shoulder is cut from the front leg of the pig, generally containing more connective tissue and muscle, making it ideal for slow cooking methods. While both cuts can be used in similar ways, the shank ham is usually more suitable for baking or glazing, while the picnic shoulder is often used for pulled pork or braising.