Settling the debate: Does plated or magnum 12 gauge #4 buckshot penetrate more?
This gel test compares Federal #4 plated defensive buckshot against Federal #4 Magnum unplated buckshot fired from a Mossberg 518 with a cylinder bore barrel. The Magnum load demonstrated deeper penetration and a more consistent spread, while the plated load showed slightly less penetration but a more consistent grouping within the gel. The instructor notes that while both are likely adequate for defense, the lower recoil of the plated load allows for faster follow-up shots, which is crucial in a defensive scenario.






