12 Gauge Shot Pattern & Penetration. 00 Buckshot vs #4 Buckshot vs 7.5 Birdshot - TheFireArmGuy

Published on December 14, 2014
Duration: 5:28

This review compares 12-gauge 00 buckshot, #4 buckshot, and 7.5 birdshot using a Mossberg 930. 00 buckshot demonstrated a tight 3-inch pattern at 6 yards and penetrated 4-5 layers of OSB. #4 buckshot spread to 5 inches and was less effective. Birdshot destroyed lighter materials but failed to penetrate dense surfaces like buckshot.

Quick Summary

Comparing 12-gauge ammunition, 00 buckshot offers the tightest pattern (around 2-3 inches at 6 yards) and superior penetration, capable of going through multiple OSB layers. #4 buckshot spreads wider (around 5 inches) with less penetration, while 7.5 birdshot spreads the most (around 6 inches) and is least effective against dense materials.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Mossberg 930 & Ammo Types
  2. 00:18Ammunition Overview: 00, #4 Buckshot & Birdshot
  3. 01:0200 Buckshot Pattern & Penetration Test
  4. 02:087.5 Birdshot Performance Test
  5. 03:0100 Buck vs #4 Buck Comparison
  6. 03:52Extreme Penetration Test: 00 Buckshot
  7. 04:34Silhouette Target Spread Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference in pattern spread between 00 buckshot, #4 buckshot, and birdshot at typical shotgun ranges?

At 5-6 yards, 00 buckshot typically shows a tight pattern of around 2-3 inches. #4 buckshot spreads wider, around 4-5 inches, while 7.5 birdshot can spread to 6 inches or more, making it less precise for single targets at distance.

How does 12 gauge 00 buckshot perform in penetration tests compared to birdshot?

00 buckshot demonstrates significantly higher penetration. In tests, it could penetrate 4-5 layers of OSB board, while birdshot, though effective on lighter materials like a single OSB sheet, failed to penetrate dense laminate effectively.

Which type of 12 gauge ammunition is best for home defense based on pattern and penetration?

For home defense, 00 buckshot is generally preferred due to its tight pattern and significant penetration, ensuring effectiveness against threats. #4 buckshot is a viable alternative with less recoil but reduced penetration. Birdshot is typically not recommended for defense due to insufficient penetration.

What shotgun was used in the test comparing 00 buckshot, #4 buckshot, and birdshot?

The test utilized a Mossberg 930 semi-automatic shotgun. This platform was chosen to evaluate the performance characteristics of different 12-gauge ammunition types under consistent firearm conditions.

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