SHOTGUNS vs PUMPKINS .410 Bore 20 Gauge 12 Gauge - Buckshot & Slugs

Published on October 12, 2022
Duration: 13:37

This video compares the effectiveness of .410, 20 gauge, and 12 gauge shotguns using buckshot and slugs against water-filled pumpkins. The presenter, an experienced firearms instructor, details the ammunition types used, including Winchester Super-X rifled slugs and various buckshot loads. He explains that while pellet velocity is often similar across gauges, larger gauges deliver more pellets, increasing hit probability and overall energy transfer.

Quick Summary

The main difference in buckshot effectiveness between .410, 20 gauge, and 12 gauge shotguns lies in the number of pellets fired. While pellet velocities are often comparable (1200-1300 ft/s), larger gauges deliver more pellets, increasing the probability of hitting the target and thus the overall energy transfer.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Shotgun vs Pumpkins
  2. 00:12Ammunition Overview: .410, 20, 12 Gauge
  3. 01:16Buckshot Details and Availability
  4. 02:06Gauge Differences: Pellets vs Velocity
  5. 02:30.410 Slugs for Handgun vs Shotgun
  6. 03:04Comparing Buckshot Types and Velocities
  7. 03:42Shotguns Used: Rossi, NEF, Cylinder Bore
  8. 04:30Adjusting Distances for Choke Differences
  9. 05:08Pumpkin Preparation: Filling with Water
  10. 05:53Testing: .410 Buckshot vs Pumpkin
  11. 07:02.410 Buckshot Entry and Exit
  12. 07:27Testing: 20 Gauge Buckshot vs Pumpkin
  13. 08:1820 Gauge Buckshot Impact Comparison
  14. 08:39Testing: 12 Gauge Buckshot vs Pumpkin
  15. 09:16Buckshot Results Summary
  16. 09:23Slug Testing Preview
  17. 09:54Testing: .410 Slug vs Pumpkin
  18. 10:20.410 Slug Results
  19. 10:34Testing: 20 Gauge Slug vs Pumpkin
  20. 11:05Testing: 12 Gauge Slug vs Pumpkin
  21. 11:46Final Results: Buckshot and Slugs
  22. 12:11What's Left: Debris Analysis
  23. 12:19Upcoming Content: Centerfire Rifles
  24. 12:28Previous Tests: Pistols, Cabbage, Soda
  25. 12:47Seasonal Pumpkin Tests
  26. 13:09Gear and Links in Description
  27. 13:22Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference in effectiveness between .410, 20 gauge, and 12 gauge buckshot?

The primary difference in buckshot effectiveness between .410, 20 gauge, and 12 gauge shotguns lies in the number of pellets fired. While pellet velocities are often comparable (1200-1300 ft/s), larger gauges deliver more pellets, increasing the probability of hitting the target and thus the overall energy transfer.

How does filling pumpkins with water affect the shooting results?

Filling pumpkins with water significantly enhances the visual and destructive effect when shot. Unlike empty pumpkins where slugs might pass through with minimal damage, water-filled pumpkins create a more explosive impact, demonstrating the energy transfer more dramatically.

What shotguns were used in the .410 vs 20 vs 12 gauge pumpkin test?

The test utilized a Rossi 41022 combo shotgun for the .410, a 20 gauge NEF anniversary edition with a full choke, and a 12 gauge shotgun with a 20-inch cylinder bore barrel. These were chosen for their availability and representative characteristics.

Can .410 handgun ammunition be used effectively in shotguns?

Yes, .410 handgun ammunition can be fired from shotguns. While rated for lower velocities in handguns (around 950 ft/s) due to shorter barrels, these same loads achieve higher velocities, approximately 1200 ft/s, when fired from a shotgun.

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