Drywall Penetration Test (Shotgun Home Defense)

Published on November 14, 2025
Duration: 2:08

This video from Kentucky Ballistics demonstrates a practical drywall penetration test for common 12-gauge shotgun home defense loads. Instructor Scott uses a Mossberg 500/590 shotgun to test #8 Birdshot, 00 Buckshot, and a 1oz Slug against a drywall setup backed by water jugs. The results clearly illustrate the varying over-penetration risks associated with each load type in a residential environment.

Quick Summary

This drywall penetration test evaluates 12-gauge shotgun loads for home defense. #8 Birdshot showed minimal over-penetration, while 00 Buckshot and 1oz Slugs penetrated deeply through drywall and water jugs, highlighting significant risks in residential settings.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Setup
  2. 00:25Birdshot Test
  3. 00:44Buckshot Test
  4. 01:09Slug Test
  5. 01:33Bonus Round and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary concern when selecting shotgun ammunition for home defense?

The primary concern is over-penetration, which is the risk of a projectile passing through interior walls and potentially harming unintended individuals or causing property damage. This test evaluates how different 12-gauge loads perform in this regard.

How did #8 Birdshot perform in the drywall penetration test?

#8 Birdshot created a hole in the drywall but failed to significantly penetrate the water jug behind it, suggesting it poses a lower risk of over-penetration compared to heavier loads.

What were the results for 00 Buckshot and slugs in the penetration test?

12-gauge 00 Buckshot pellets easily penetrated the drywall and water jug. A 1oz Slug demonstrated the highest penetration, causing extensive damage, highlighting their significant over-penetration potential.

What shotgun was used for the drywall penetration test?

The video features a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, likely a Mossberg 500 or 590 model, equipped with accessories like a heat shield and pistol grip for the test.

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