Home Defense: Interior wall penetration test with 12 gauge shotgun

Published on April 30, 2012
Duration: 8:11

This test evaluates 12 gauge shotgun loads for home defense, focusing on interior wall penetration. Results show that standard target loads and birdshot are stopped by drywall and studs, while buckshot and slugs penetrate multiple walls with significant energy. The video suggests 'cocktail' loading as a strategy to mitigate over-penetration risk.

Quick Summary

For home defense, 12 gauge birdshot and target loads are generally safer regarding interior wall penetration, often being stopped by drywall and studs. Buckshot and slugs, however, easily penetrate multiple walls with lethal force intact. Consider 'cocktail' loading birdshot first to mitigate over-penetration risks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Wall Penetration Test for Home Defense
  2. 00:35Shotgun Loads Overview: 12 Gauge Variety
  3. 01:26Test Setup: Simulated Interior Walls
  4. 02:14Baseline Steel Plate Impact Test
  5. 03:48Wall Penetration Testing Begins
  6. 05:11Analysis: Birdshot vs. Buckshot vs. Slugs
  7. 07:07Recommendations: Cocktail Loading Strategy

Frequently Asked Questions

Which 12 gauge shotgun loads are safest for home defense regarding wall penetration?

For home defense, target loads and birdshot generally penetrate interior walls less than buckshot or slugs. Tests show birdshot can be stopped by drywall and studs, while buckshot and slugs easily pass through with significant energy remaining.

What is 'cocktail' loading for a shotgun?

'Cocktail' or 'candy cane' loading involves chambering lighter loads like birdshot first. This strategy aims to minimize the risk of over-penetration through interior walls. Heavier loads like buckshot or slugs can then be chambered if the situation demands.

Do rifled slugs penetrate home walls?

Yes, rifled slugs, along with all tested buckshot loads, easily penetrated multiple layers of drywall and 2x4 studs in the test. They retained significant lethal force after passing through the simulated interior walls.

How does birdshot perform in interior wall penetration tests?

In this test, standard target loads and high-velocity birdshot penetrated the initial layers of drywall but lost most of their energy. They were effectively stopped by the fourth layer of drywall and studs, indicating a lower risk of over-penetration.

Related News

All News →

More Self Defense Videos You Might Like

More from Iraqveteran8888

View all →