4 buckshot vs 4 birdshot. Firing from 40 yards, I found No.

4 buckshot vs 4 birdshot The largest shot sizes are designated as buckshot because they were originally developed for hunting deer-size game. 5” cylinder bore (no choke) barrel. 75" #6) doesn't even compare. Dec 31, 2024 · Both buckshot and birdshot have their strengths and limitations. It stands ready at my bedside, loaded with 2 rounds of 2 3/4” low recoil #4 buckshot, followed by 5 rounds of 2 3/4” #00 buckshot, in case there’s more than one “uninvited” guest, or I need following shots at longer ranges. Just like with birdshot, buckshot gauge is measured in reverse. If you use 4 buck cut open a shell an make sure it is buck shot. Understanding Shot Sizes and Patterns. 33″, and “triple-aught with a diameter of . EVEN #4 buck is better than birdshot. If the offending turkey is heavily dressed, #8 Target & Bird Loads may not do the job…unless delivered to the turkey’s face and head. Buckshot fires larger pellets but fewer of them when compared to birdshot that looks to fire a lot of smaller pellets. At distance, or going through a barrier (window included), #4 buck loses a lot of power because each pellet does not really weigh much at all. You shoot to live. Conversations Sep 10, 2022 · BEST Shotgun Ammo For Home Defense??? Today we test one of the oldest debates, Birdshot vs Buckshot vs Slugs for self defense. 25" However, at very close range the terminal performance of shot shells – buckshot or birdshot – is not the same as with a single projectile fired from a handgun or a rifle. Dec 21, 2009 · 1) Sellier & Bellot 2. Buckshot, like its name suggests, was designed for hunting medium to larger game. In close-range encounters, as found in most home-defense situations, birdshot can be deadly. Second—again generally—buckshot is for, well, bucks. Nov 15, 2012 · An average No. Jun 29, 2017 · Buckshot is most popular in a few sizes, the most common of course being 00 and #4 (not to be confused with #4 birdshot). Apr 20, 2020 · My personal home-defense weapon of choice is a Benelli Nova Tactical, with magazine tube extension, and light. Another misconception is that shotguns don’t require precision. #Buckshot# Sep 13, 2020 · This videos is a comparison between 00 Buckshot, #1 Buckshot, and #4 Buckshot Patterns. Both have a #4. The primary difference between birdshot and The terms “buckshot” and “birdshot” are often used a lot when discussing the different types of shotgun ammo. In reality, even a slight miss can mean no hits with slugs or limited damage with buckshot. 5 shot, 6 shot and so on. Birdshot for Home Defense; Reduce Noise and Recoil on Your Shotgun Dec 14, 2014 · This video looks at the shot pattern and penetrtion of 12 gauge 00 buckshot, #4 buckshot and 7. We’re just going to focus on the matter of birdshot vs. 22 LR bullet (a high-speed solid). Apr 14, 2017 · These simple tests convinced me that, between buckshot vs. 13 inches #4 (unmarked) is most likely birdshot, most buckshot is labeled as such and usually more expensive #4 buck has fewer pellets but penetrates better, #4 buck is about the lowest recommended self defense rounds for shotguns as birdshot does not penetrate to the same depth at range Feb 26, 2025 · Typical US buckshot sizes vary from #4 buckshot with a diameter of . If someone comes with average armor (level II and above), no buckshot is getting through it. The results were pretty outstanding. 5 birdshot. Sep 15, 2010 · We set out a spoiled side of beef and put so #4 buck, #1 buck, and as Mississippi Turkey Hunter suggested, #4 bird. The bird shot acted like a large We’re just going to focus on the matter of birdshot vs. The #4 shot weigh about 3. com/?rfsn=6463579. Buckshot may be the gold standard for a lot of things, but it’s just one type of shot available. #4 a5 . 4 Jul 5, 2020 · Because of volume differences in the larger amount of room that buckshot needs compared to shot, you won't be able to crimp the load. buckshot and simply provide you with some key considerations for how to choose the right load or shell for your self-defense shotgun. Close in, it probably does not make a big difference. It's like birdshot, but is just powerful enough to defend yourself at close range. At distances under five yards, birdshot’s tight grouping creates what’s often called a “rat hole” effect, causing serious injury. 4 buckshot? Do reduced-recoil shells matter? These are important questions that impact not only effectiveness but also your safety and that of your loved ones. yo Nov 4, 2022 · #4 shot is . 24 in. The size of the shot dictates the intended use of the shell and is the same for all shotgun gauges (the larger the gauge, the more pellets per shell). Shot size comparisons of different shotgun pellets or shot sizes from #12 birdshot to 000 buckshot for hunting, upland birds, waterfowl, and turkeys. If you're a bird hunter, use your favorite hunting shells as long as they are #6 or larger. 7. Buck will go through exterior walls. 5 times as much as a single #4 (bird) shot. birdshot, a standard birdshot load is usually best for a homeowner’s defensive 12-gauge shotgun. The mean depth of a male chest is 10". Remember that when talking about shot sizes, people typically say “number four birdshot. Which one's best??Get your own If you really insist on going Shotty, get a semi auto and load #4 buckshot to lessen the chances you'll not chamber a round, and most importantly, lessen the chances you will kill someone you love when you blow through a H. " I would like to see those tests. . 4 is whats called "bird shot" named for its use in bird hunting. Apr 17, 2007 · Choose any #4 or BB high brass lead hunting load. Jun 13, 2024 · This chart shows birdshot sized 10-T and buckshot sizes 4-000. I think this would be something us shotgun newbie's would like to know. The military has used both #4 buck and 00 over the years, but they have used 00 since at least 1912 that I know of. #homedefense #buck Jan 26, 2025 · While this holds true for birdshot, buckshot and slugs prove highly lethal at medium to long ranges. And birdshot is for—you guessed it—birds. What is the maximum effective range of number 4 shot for coyote hunting? Feb 13, 2025 · At close quarters – the range you’re most likely to face in a home defense scenario – both buckshot and birdshot can be devastating. birdshot, clarifying their characteristics, uses, and potential dangers. The IWBA believes, with very good reason, that number 1 buckshot is the shotshell load of choice for quickly stopping deadly criminal Apr 21, 2022 · Groups. Buckshot in the 00 variety in a 2. Sep 4, 2023 · Historical Context of Buckshot and Birdshot. Like shotgun gauge and wire gauge, the higher the number, the smaller the shot. 240″ versus 0. You smack an intruder with a trap load at 20 feet and he isn’t going to be interested in sticking around if he can still stand. Birdshot, while less powerful, offers a safer alternative for those in shared or confined spaces. Birdshot will mess up a human, but may not stop a threat. Jan 3, 2024 · 4 buck is . Depending on the choke in your shotgun, from about 15 feet and in, the shot from a shotshell has not had time to spread extensively. 5" #4, this is based off 2. The largest I’ve heard of is #0000 buckshot but #000 is the largest common size. Firing from 40 yards, I found No. This means that No. 24-inch diameter pellets, and up to #000 at . 75” #4 Buckshot 21-pellet 3) Winchester Universal 2. 32″, 00 with a diameter of . -lbs. Birdshot was, naturally, developed for bird hunting while buckshot evolved as a versatile option for larger game and self-defense. May 21, 2013 · Shotgun World General Forums. When it comes to shotgun ammunition for home defense, buckshot is the undisputed king You are overthinking this. The smaller the shot number, the larger the pellets (0000 is largest, #9 is smallest). Yes, buckshot shell boxes should say buckshot or buck on the box. But, it loses power so fast, over-penetration is much less of a problem. #Buckshot# Jul 27, 2021 · Buckshot loads today will be found in sizes ranging from the smallest, #4, with . Apr 12, 2017 · The home-defense load for shotguns has traditionally been 00 buckshot. #4 birdshot is about 3. #4 center of mass is going to drop you from inside the house distances. 24" #3 at . I like the Federal "Classic Lead Hi-Brass" #4 birdshot (HI26-4) and Winchester "Super-X" #4 high brass birdshot (X12-4), but there is little difference between the various choices. Slug; Birdshot: An Overview; Buckshot: Birdshot’s Larger Cousin; Slugs: The Shotgun’s Heavy Hitters; Buckshot vs. Feb 20, 2024 · Number 4 shot is most effective at close to medium ranges, as it may lack the necessary penetration at longer distances. When comparing 4 buckshot vs. IN 90% of cases however, 4 buck is getting close to ideal in home ranges. And while birdshot can cause damage, buckshot is specifically designed for hunting purposes, as it can take down larger targets. A shotgun loaded with buckshot becomes a formidable Feb 26, 2023 · Both have a #4. At the longer distances it was clear that the small bird shot would unlikely be fatal except to maybe an eyeball. As a testing medium, big chunks of meat are perhaps more representative than ballistic gel. Both will make real holes in drywall. Conversations Buckshot or birdshot? FMG’s Roy Huntington, takes on this question after field testing 00 buck and #8 birdshot out of a Remington 870 at a close-range target. Buckshot sucks at penetrating any armor. Feb 16, 2008 · I live in an apartment and I'm getting a 12 ga. 2 3/4" hulls loaded with 24 pellets of Mar 2, 2013 · Shotgun World General Forums. 1 Buck. Conversations Dec 20, 2023 · Types Of Shotgun Shells Explained: Birdshot vs. #4 popped nicely, total penetration, bunch of holes. Specifics aside (magnum Sep 13, 2020 · This videos is a comparison between 00 Buckshot, #1 Buckshot, and #4 Buckshot Patterns. No. 36-inch diameter Jul 14, 2023 · I once ran tests with common buckshot sizes on . Breaking Down . In other words, a single #4 buckshot weighs about 6. Much as I love Box O'Truth, this is an extremely old post of theirs. LE uses #00 Buck because they shoot at more than just bad guys… they shoot at door hinges, or at car tires, or at cars with bad guys in them. Understanding Buckshot. Birdshot? So, which one should you use for home defense now that you know the advantages and disadvantages? If you are a smaller person and can’t handle the recoil of buckshot, then you should use birdshot because you want to ensure you hit your target. 75” #8 Birdshot. Use 21 pellet #4 buckshot shells, 2 3/4" . 375-inch particle board spaced behind the target. 15 in. The largest mass of pellets penetrate 7. The #4 buck weigh 20 to 21 grains each. Buckshot is also available in a variety of different Which would you choose for home defense?Please subscribe, share, thumbs up and add me to your google+ and circles. 32” or . Mar 27, 2023 · #4 shot suitable for Turkeys, not #4 Buckshot…a rarity, or #6 Field Loads, delivered out of Cylinder Bore will hammer any turkeys that break into your home, and minimize over-penetration risk. Youl do not shoot to kill. 25 grains each. Birdshot vs Buckshot Aug 5, 2006 · You can't protect your family with bird shot. 36”. Here is my playlist for Rifle and Shotgun Shotgun Shot Size Chart guide. It recommends #4 shot for turkey, pheasant, and geese. May 22, 2006 · These simple tests convinced me that, between buckshot vs. Buy whichever you please. Sep 6, 2016 · How well does a metal door hold up to #4 and #8 shot, buckshot, and slugs? Find out! Items I use regularly in these videos-Steel Targets: https://shootingtargets7. Feb 15, 2025 · What’s the difference between 00 buckshot and No. 3 mm/0. Birdshot fires a lot of smaller projectiles in a wide pattern that is ideal for hunting upland game, waterfowl, and for use in sporting clays competitions. #1 and #4 buck are also fairly common. 3 mm/O. Buckshot will penetrate much deeper. Box of truth states that "In fact, tests have shown that even #4 Buckshot lacks the necessary penetration to reach the vital organs. Dec 21, 2009 · Both will hurt, but just as with birdshot the smaller #4 buck will put more pellets on target and cause more simultaneous damage. 00 buckshot, #4 is somewhat less powerful than 00 buck, which is used by most law enforcement agencies in their shotguns. Buckshot, meanwhile, offers both penetration and spread. 36-inch diameter pellets. Larger sizes, like #4 or #2, work well for bigger birds such as ducks and geese at medium distances. Regulations heavily influence birdshot material due to environmental concerns. Get an AR15 if you care about that unlikely scenario. 33-caliber balls traveling at nearly 1,250 fps when they leave the I choose 00 buck due to its proven track record. Get More Personal Defense Tips! Groups. I shoot some 4 buckshot, 00 buckshot and a 1 1/8th oz Sep 20, 2005 · He also took some #8 dove loads. I think I would find something else. Birdshot Nomenclature May 16, 2010 · BB is the shot size down from #4 buckshot, and I would recommend #4 as the largest size to use indoors. Targets that are 35, 50 yards away will shake and metal sounding impact will occur with the 00 buck, 00 magnum buck hits it. Sep 14, 2021 · No. 33” in caliber. Since you seemingly put a lot of focus on "overpenetration" just get #4 buckshot and call it a day. If I had neighbors to worry about, I would use #4 bird shot. of energy. The cup wall thickness of the shot type wad you would be tempted to load makes the buck shot (that is a tight fit without that thick wad wall) even tighter, especially as the buckshot and wad pass through the choke. There are many more 4 shot in a 20 gauge load than #4 buckshot. Think of buckshot as the counterpart to birdshot and slugs, which are essentially giant shotgun bullets. Buck will stop a human threat. 130″. 4 buck is . 4 buckshot isn’t as wrong an answer as birdshot, but it’s still a poor choice for a fighting shotgun. Jul 5, 2024 · The terms “buckshot” and “birdshot” are often used a lot when discussing the different types of shotgun ammo. Birdshot vs Buckshot: Key Differences. As always, hit a patterning board to get a good idea of how the shot you are choosing goes in your gun. com recommends #4 buck for deer, coyote, or home defense. So it will say something like 4 buck, 1 buck or 00 buck. 13" diameter vs #4 buckshot at . However, unlike birdshot, buckshot typically has a tighter pattern as you want all that stopping power put into a smaller area to harvest big game. e4ca9dMain Camera (smartphone): https://amzn. That same shotgun, loaded with birdshot, can drop a drop a 20-pound tundra swan or a 4-ounce mourning dove. 000 buckshot punched through more boards (six) than did a . Here are the basic differences: Buckshot is comprised of nine pellets measuring about . Conversations This shows that, at that range #4 birdshot will penetrate sufficiently to disable an attacker, or at least make them reconsider their life choices. A standard 2 ¾" 12-gauge shotgun shell typically holds 8-9 pellets of #00 buckshot, 12-16 pellets of #1 buckshot, or 21-28 pellets of #4 buckshot. We fired all The Difference Between Buckshot and Birdshot Explained. Jan 8, 2013 · Do not expect birdshot to have any decisive effect. 4 Buck will be smaller than No. Ammo. The most common buckshot load is 00 Buck. The vast majority of lethal force encounters occur within 10 feet. For a long time, dedicated shotgunners have worked to dispel lots of fuddlore, lies, and myths about the shotgun, and today we are going to talk about why you should just say no to number 4 buckshot for home defense. However, with #4 bird shot, no metal sound will come from the target, just lots of sand will get kicked off the ground. That is a BIG "IF". #4 bird, ugly, messy, went about 4 inches in, good for making hamburger, but I'd stick with bigger stuff. http://www. The difference between birdshot and buckshot is the size of projectiles (shot/pellets) loaded into the shotgun shell and their penetration ability. Number 1 buckshot has the potential to produce more effective wound trauma than either #00 or #000 buck, without the accompanying risk of over-penetration. 24", and a significant difference in mass. Calling in a coyote with a Lucky Duck Revolt to shotgun range from a long ways out using a Saiga-12 Russian shotgun. Modern buckshot like Federal Flite Control patterns much tighter than any available #4 buckshot and gives you a much better chance of hitting your target and only your target than any standard buckshot. Buckshot: The Gold Standard for Home Defense. BUckshot will travel further, and penetrate more than bird shot. At short distances, the target had one large hole in it. With birdshot it will say something like 4 shot, 7. Birdshot (I have no experience with 3. Buckshot loads today will be found in sizes ranging from the smallest, #4, with . While smaller shot showed progressively less penetration, even No. 12 Gauge: Birdshot vs Buckshot vs Slug If you want to see the difference between birdshot, buckshot and slugs, watch this video. #4 beck is 6. Many new shooters are confused about the difference between them, and that’s OK because we were all a little confused the first time we stepped up to the ammo counter. Only 0 Buck, 00 Buck, and 000 Buck penetrate enough to reach the vital organs. USE BUCKSHOT. The most popular size by far is #00 buck, especially for self-defense. 5" with the furthest penetrating to 11". Buckshot shells have larger pellets in lower numbers while birdshot shells have smaller pellets in much higher quantities. Birdshot is very lethal at close range yet won’t kill neighbors 4 walls away. (This is complicated, so we will talk in general terms). My first two shells are 1 buck, next two 3"mag 00 buck, next slug. He started at 30 yards and continued to twenty feet. Select your favorite human/mountain lion/bear-analog target, and shoot it with #4 and 00 Buck. I. Note: This is why I’m not using “#” before any numbered birdshot. 7 1/2 birdshot pellet, however, packs just 4 ft. Proper aiming and understanding of the ammunition’s capabilities are essential. In most cases, 2 3/4″ 00 buckshot loads hold 8 or 9 pellets. This will work for my specific use scenario. One ounce comprises 21 #4 buckshot. Buckshot is a type of shotgun shell designed for medium to large game like deer or elk. This ammo is particularly popular for deer hunting, as the larger pellets are more likely to cause a lethal wound. 24 inches in diameter, 4 bird is . 4 buckshot perforated three particle boards. Mar 9, 2020 · The smallest buckshot is #4 buck, not to be confused with #4 shot, which is birdshot. The test gun is a Remington 870 Express with an 18. Groups. I hope this video can provide some insight. Slugs Matthew Yunk 20/12/2023 Whether you're a seasoned shotgun veteran or just starting to explore the world of shotguns, the shells you use come down to more than just preference — your choice can impact your shooting game. We have 3 shotguns one with 00 for when we get bigger things on the farm, and then #4 for anything on 2 legs unwelcome in the home and then one with bird for things like skunks that we get constantly around the How many pellets are there in a typical buckshot load? As with birdshot, the larger the buckshot pellet size, the fewer pellets fit into a particular shotgun shell. In a 12-gauge shotgun, this is generally a load of nine . #1 Less holes, more violent, shook the meat nicely. Can Number 4 buckshot be used in a semi-automatic shotgun? Yes, Number 4 buckshot can be used in most semi-automatic shotguns, but it’s important to ensure that the gun is capable of cycling the specific load reliably. Both buckshot and birdshot have roots tracing back to the early days of firearms. Buckshot provides unmatched penetration and stopping power but carries a higher risk of overpenetration. Smaller pellets like #8 or #9 are ideal for clay shooting and small birds such as doves and quail. Therefore, to be effective for home defense, it's imperative for birdshot to impact the target in a highly Feb 17, 2024 · The cost of Number 4 buckshot ammunition can vary widely, but it is generally more affordable than larger buckshot sizes. I am, in a open area and can safely shoot these. Conversations Apr 8, 2024 · Nick Delgadillo talks about and demonstrates the differences between birdshot vs buckshot and why buckshot is superior for defensive shotgun use. Here’s how it compares to other shot types: Dec 23, 2024 · Common birdshot pellet sizes range from #9 (smallest) to #2 (largest). 75 inch shell is either eight or nine From home defence ranges #4 vs 00 I think won't matter as much. Birdshot vs. Jan 22, 2021 · The Differences Between Buckshot, Birdshot, and Slugs; Shotgun Shell Sizes: 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge; Shotgun Ammo Types: Buckshot vs. As a “buck” is a term for a male deer, buckshot was primarily designed for deer hunting. You run significant risk of just pissing him off. Feb 2, 2025 · Birdshot will be much smaller than buckshot. Jan 8, 2012 · Buckshot still retains quite a bit of energy at 30-40 yards. The FBI’s minimum standards for target penetration for a human assailant to be incapacitated is 12 inches and from penetration tests of buckshot, #4 buck is the smallest shot size that consistently has at least half of it’s pellets if not more going through at least 12 inches of ballistics gel. In an apartment I would most probably use two 4 buck, and back it up with some 1 buck. 75” 00 Buckshot 9-pellet 2) Sellier & Bellot 2. Here’s everything you need to know about buckshot vs birdshot. Buckshot vs. Try it out sometime. Oct 1, 2008 · Personally speaking, BIrd shot is a consideration where ranges are short, and overpenetration is an issue. ” Buckshot sizes larger than #1 start at #0, go on to #00 buck, and so on. Many are indecisive as to whether to use buckshot or birdshot shotgun shells for home defense. A larger pellet will, of course, result in fewer pellets per cartridge. 24-inch lead balls traveling at about 1,200 feet per second, a serious impression will be made on your target. Jan 15, 2022 · In this gel test, i'm comparing some common loads in Clear Ballistics gel and seeing how they perform. GET STARTED; A shotgun loaded with buckshot becomes a formidable short-range arm for medium-sized game and for home defense. 3. Tactical/HD Shotguns. to/36NioIvSecond Apr 21, 2005 · Of course, one must bear in mind that when dealing with commercial ammo offerings, birdshot is often times loaded soft, where buck is loaded hot (there is no "lowbrass" buckshot), but for theoretical purposes, if you were to load a full charge of highbrass bird and a full charge of highbrass buck and fire them into a mans chest, he would't be Ok so I’m not new to fire arms I can make a pipe Submachinegun with welding tools and scrap but iv never delt with shotguns and it was something I was missing from my collection but this Christmas my father bought me a 12 gauge Remington 870 super magnum and I wanted to ask for home defense should I use birdshot weather that be number 8,7,6,5 birdshot or should I use buckshot from what I Mar 11, 2020 · With a pellet count commonly between 21 and 24 of . 5 shot is usually the cheapest birdshot because it’s commonly used for clays and 00 buck is the cheapest buckshot usually Feb 14, 2024 · Annoyingly, #4 buckshot is larger than 4 birdshot, having a diameter of 0. Jun 13, 2024 · First, buckshot is big, and birdshot is small. 13 inches #4 (unmarked) is most likely birdshot, most buckshot is labeled as such and usually more expensive #4 buck has fewer pellets but penetrates better, #4 buck is about the lowest recommended self defense rounds for shotguns as birdshot does not penetrate to the same depth at range Feb 26, 2025 · Which Should You Choose Between, Buckshot Vs. Mossberg 500. Courtesy of Federal Ammunition Incidentally, there are slight differences in pellet diameter and in nomenclature among American Shot comes as birdshot & buckshot. The test medium was a single, water-soaked phonebook (see the page “Phone Book Ballistics”). Re: #4 Buckshot vs #4 Heavy Game « Reply #4 on: December 03, 2010, 08:56:45 pm » So, if both shells contain only 27 pellets, the heavy birdshot shell must have a lot bigger powder charge. I'm debating what kind of ammo I should be using for home defense, considering I have neighbors within close proximity. Buckshot will run through apartment walls like nothing. He then shot at sheets of paper at various distances. Buckshot choices 00 vs No. Failing to disable the intruder does little to keep you alive. I've decided to go with either a #4 or a #1 buckshot, and I'm leaning toward the #1. 0000 to #4 is generally referred to as buckshot and #5 to #9 is called birdshot. Feb 2, 2025 · Conclusion: Birdshot vs Buckshot. Aug 16, 2011 · If that person is still alive to sue you, you will regret using birdshot. You do not shoot to "stop". It’s been the gold standard for law enforcement for many decades. If a flock of birds catch wind of you and take off, you would shoot at them with this type of shell as it has typically between 130 and 180 pellets (depending on them being steel or led pellets), and has a greater chance of hitting several of the flying birds while at the same time not retaining enough energy to tear the Groups. 24″ to 3, 2, 1, and then 0 with a diameter of . Jan 26, 2004 · I was out at the range again shooting off some 00 buck, 00 magnum buck, and #4 birdshot. Jul 28, 2013 · Does anyone know if there is a difference, "in size", between #4 birdshot and #4 buckshot? Most articles I read say there is no difference or showing a list of shot going from 9 to 000. Feb 4, 2025 · This article will delve into the specifics of buckshot vs. 4. Can I use number 4 buckshot for coyote hunting? Number 4 buckshot can be effective for coyote hunting, especially at close ranges. Buckshot and birdshot are two different types of shotgun ammo that have drastically different intended uses. One ounce comprises 135 #4 shot. Jan 21, 2013 · The weight difference is huge. mxolpi gkkjga xvzul etvmlqg bfnnjvf omesc jdif rdt ggm jrpt rcfuextu vaebd ffj meaqpb qurwq