12ga #4 Birdshot vs 12ga #4 Buckshot - TheFireArmGuy

Published on August 18, 2012
Duration: 8:08

This guide details a comparative penetration test between 12-gauge #4 birdshot and #4 buckshot, utilizing various materials like steel doors and wheelbarrows. The expert analysis, provided by TheFirearmGuy, highlights the distinct performance characteristics of each load, offering practical insights for self-defense applications. The test emphasizes safety and controlled variables for accurate assessment.

Quick Summary

A penetration test comparing 12-gauge #4 birdshot and #4 buckshot revealed distinct performance differences. #4 Birdshot showed limited penetration against steel barriers, while #4 Buckshot demonstrated significantly greater penetration, though surprisingly few pellets fully exited common steel doors, suggesting a potentially reduced risk of over-penetration in home defense scenarios.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Equipment Overview
  2. 01:40Birdshot vs. Milk Jugs and Silhouette
  3. 02:28Buckshot vs. Silhouette
  4. 03:13Freezer Door Penetration Test
  5. 04:38Wheelbarrow Penetration Test
  6. 06:12Steel Front Door Test
  7. 07:32Conclusion and Self-Defense Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between 12ga #4 birdshot and #4 buckshot in terms of performance?

#4 Birdshot consists of many small pellets designed for a wide spread, ideal for pest control. #4 Buckshot uses larger pellets, offering significantly greater penetration and stopping power, making it more suitable for self-defense applications where barrier penetration is a consideration.

How did 12ga #4 birdshot perform against steel barriers in the test?

In the penetration tests, 12ga #4 birdshot demonstrated limited effectiveness against steel. It failed to penetrate a thick steel freezer door and only achieved approximately 50% penetration on a rusted steel wheelbarrow, leaving surface indentations on a steel front door.

What were the penetration results for 12ga #4 buckshot against steel barriers?

12ga #4 buckshot showed considerably more penetration power. It created deep indentations on a steel freezer door with one pellet exiting, easily penetrated a rusted steel wheelbarrow with every pellet, and created deeper craters on a steel front door, with two pellets fully penetrating.

What is the takeaway for home defense regarding #4 birdshot vs. #4 buckshot penetration?

While #4 buckshot is more lethal, the test suggests that both #4 birdshot and #4 buckshot exhibit limited penetration through steel doors. This characteristic could potentially reduce the risk of over-penetration and harm to bystanders in adjacent rooms during a home defense scenario.

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