Cut Shells: This is kinda impressive

Published on March 22, 2025
Duration: 9:11

This video explores the effectiveness and limitations of 'cut shells,' a field-expedient method to create a slug-like projectile from birdshot. While tests show they can deliver concentrated energy, shatter concrete, and achieve surprising accuracy at 50 yards, they suffer from significant reliability issues in semi-automatic shotguns and lack the penetration of true slugs.

Quick Summary

Cut shells are a DIY modification of birdshot shells designed to create a slug-like projectile. While they show impressive concentrated energy, accuracy comparable to slugs at 50 yards, and can penetrate steel, they suffer from significant reliability issues in semi-automatic shotguns.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: What are Cut Shells?
  2. 00:31How to Make a Cut Shell
  3. 00:54Damage Test: Water Jugs
  4. 01:46Concrete & 50-Yard Accuracy Test
  5. 04:48Steel Helmet & Ballistics Gel Tests
  6. 08:08Reliability Issues & Drawbacks

Frequently Asked Questions

What are 'cut shells' in shotgun ammunition?

Cut shells are a field-expedient modification where the hull of a standard birdshot round is cut. The goal is to keep the shot and wad together, allowing it to travel as a single, more concentrated projectile, similar to a slug.

How accurate are cut shells compared to slugs?

Tests show cut shells can achieve surprisingly tight groupings at 50 yards, comparable to slugs. However, consistency can vary, with some rounds exhibiting 'petaling' or less predictable patterns.

What are the main reliability issues with cut shells?

The primary reliability problem is in semi-automatic shotguns. The cut hull often separates improperly, causing jams and failures to cycle the action, making them potentially unreliable for defensive use.

Do cut shells penetrate better than standard birdshot?

Yes, cut shells demonstrate significantly more concentrated energy and penetration than standard birdshot patterns. They can shatter concrete and punch through steel helmets, unlike typical birdshot loads.

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