Wax Slugs: How deadly are they REALLY?

Published on August 24, 2025
Duration: 9:18

This guide details the process of creating DIY wax slugs from standard birdshot shells, involving cutting the shell, mixing lead shot with melted wax, and reloading the hull. The video demonstrates their significantly higher impact energy compared to birdshot, as evidenced by tests on cinder blocks and a Chinese PLA helmet, though accuracy is noted to be less precise than standard slugs. The host, an experienced firearms instructor, also compares their cycling reliability in a semi-automatic shotgun to cut shells.

Quick Summary

DIY wax slugs are made by modifying standard 12 gauge birdshot shells, mixing the shot with melted wax, and reloading the hull. They offer significantly higher terminal energy and destructive power than birdshot, as demonstrated in ballistic tests, but exhibit lower accuracy compared to standard slugs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Wax Slug Overview & Manufacturing
  2. 00:29How to Make Wax Slugs
  3. 01:04Cinder Block Damage Test
  4. 01:56Wax Slug Accuracy vs. Standard Slugs
  5. 03:47Wax Slugs vs. Cut Shells Cycling
  6. 05:40Chinese PLA Helmet Impact Test
  7. 07:15Ballistic Gel Lethality Test

Frequently Asked Questions

How are wax slugs made?

Wax slugs are typically made by cutting the top off a standard 12 gauge birdshot shell, mixing the lead shot with melted wax, and then pouring this mixture back into the hull to form a single projectile.

Are wax slugs more deadly than birdshot?

Yes, wax slugs are significantly more deadly than birdshot due to their ability to concentrate energy into a single projectile. Tests show they cause far more damage to targets like cinder blocks and ballistic gel.

How accurate are DIY wax slugs?

DIY wax slugs are generally less accurate than standard slugs. Testing shows a wider spread and more instability, making them less suitable for precise shooting at longer distances.

Do wax slugs cycle reliably in semi-automatic shotguns?

Wax slugs tend to cycle better in semi-automatic shotguns compared to cut shells, though there is a potential risk of the projectile sliding out of the hull, which could affect reliability.

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