Best 12 Gauge Shell for Home Protection - TheFireArmGuy

Published on November 10, 2012
Duration: 4:36

This guide, presented by TheFireArmGuy, focuses on selecting the best 12 gauge ammunition for home defense. It emphasizes the effectiveness of #4 birdshot and #4 buckshot, demonstrating their patterns and impact on targets. The instructor advises caution regarding double-aught buckshot due to over-penetration risks and highlights the potential ineffectiveness of smaller shot sizes against threats with heavy clothing. The final recommendation leans towards #4 birdshot for its balance of spread and stopping power.

Quick Summary

For home defense with a 12 gauge shotgun, #4 birdshot is a top recommendation due to its wide spread pattern and effective stopping power, even through heavy clothing. While #4 buckshot is also effective, double-aught (00) buckshot carries a higher risk of over-penetration through walls. Smaller shot sizes like #6 may be insufficient.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Mossberg 500 Introduction
  2. 00:27Initial Shell Recommendation
  3. 01:06Number 4 Birdshot Test
  4. 01:27Double-aught Buckshot Concerns
  5. 01:57Double-aught Buckshot Test
  6. 02:22Ineffectiveness of Smaller Birdshot
  7. 02:38Choosing Between #4 Birdshot and Buckshot
  8. 02:57Number 4 Birdshot Pattern Demo
  9. 03:29Number 4 Buckshot Pattern Demo
  10. 03:56Final Recommendation: #4 Birdshot

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best 12 gauge shell for home defense?

For home defense, #4 birdshot is often recommended due to its wide spread pattern and effective stopping power, even through winter jackets. #4 buckshot is a strong second choice. Avoid smaller shot sizes like #6 and consider the over-penetration risks of 00 buckshot.

Why is double-aught (00) buckshot not ideal for home defense?

Double-aught buckshot can be overpowered for home defense, posing a significant risk of over-penetration through walls. This could endanger innocent individuals beyond the intended target. Responsible projectile management is crucial.

What are the advantages of #4 birdshot for home defense?

#4 birdshot, like Winchester Xpert Hi-Velocity Steel Shot (1550 FPS), offers a wide spread pattern that covers a target effectively, including headshots, from typical home defense distances. It provides strong impact without the extreme over-penetration risks of larger buckshot.

Can smaller birdshot sizes like #6 be used for home defense?

Smaller shot sizes, such as #6 birdshot or higher, may not be sufficient to reliably stop an intruder, especially if they are wearing thick clothing like a winter jacket. It's generally recommended to use larger shot sizes for home defense.

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