candy cane loads are not smart...

Published on January 17, 2026
Duration: 0:53

Shortshot Tony explains why alternating buckshot and slugs ('candy cane loads') in a shotgun magazine is an ineffective defensive strategy. He demonstrates that buckshot creates sufficient damage at close range, and a subsequent slug often passes through the same wound channel. Tony recommends loading the magazine with consistent buckshot and keeping slugs accessible on a side saddle for specialized, longer-range needs.

Quick Summary

Shortshot Tony advises against 'candy cane loads' (alternating buckshot and slugs) in shotguns for defense. He explains that buckshot creates sufficient close-range damage, and slugs fired subsequently may pass through the same wound channel, offering little added stopping power. The expert recommends loading the magazine with consistent buckshot and keeping slugs on a side saddle for specific long-range needs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Candy Cane Loads Explained
  2. 00:08Buckshot Impact Demonstration
  3. 00:14The Redundancy of Slugs After Buckshot
  4. 00:34Tactical Recommendation: Consistent Loads

Frequently Asked Questions

What are 'candy cane loads' in a shotgun?

'Candy cane loads' refer to a shotgun magazine loading strategy where buckshot and slug shells are alternated. The speaker argues this is an ineffective tactic for defensive use, as buckshot alone provides sufficient close-range damage, and slugs may not offer significant added benefit when fired through the same wound channel.

Why is alternating buckshot and slugs in a shotgun magazine tube not recommended?

Alternating buckshot and slugs is not recommended because buckshot creates a large wound channel at close range. A slug fired immediately after may pass through the existing hole, making the slug redundant and failing to add meaningful stopping power compared to consistent buckshot loads.

What is the recommended shotgun loading strategy for defense?

The recommended strategy is to load the shotgun magazine tube exclusively with buckshot for consistent close-range effectiveness. Slugs should be kept readily accessible, such as on a side saddle, for specific situations that require their unique ballistics, typically at longer distances.

What shotgun accessories were featured in the video?

The video featured a Beretta 1301 Tactical shotgun equipped with a Holosun Red Dot optic, a Magpul SGA stock, and a Magpul Zhukov handguard. Fiocchi and Federal 12 Gauge shells (buckshot and slugs) were also shown.

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