Best Home Defense 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Load: Shot Size Comparison and Recommendations
When it comes to home defense, the choice of ammunition, particularly a 12 gauge shotgun shell, is a crucial decision. This article will delve into the different shot sizes—birdshot and buckshot—and provide guidance on the best options for home defense. We'll also discuss the importance of reducing risk to innocent bystanders while ensuring the ammunition is effective against a threat.
Understanding the Basics of 12 Gauge Shotgun Ammunition
The choice of shell for a home defense shotgun involves a careful balance between penetration and the risk of over-penetration. Size T birdshot (approximately 0.2 inches diameter) or size 0 buckshot (approximately 0.32 inches diameter) are commonly used defensive loads. Larger buckshot like 00 or 000 may be too powerful, posing a risk to neighbors by breaching walls, while smaller birdshot like 9 may be ineffective against leather clothing.
Choosing the Appropriate Shot Size for Home Defense
For indoor defense, a semi-automatic bullpup shotgun is often the best choice due to its fast target acquisition and the ability to handle a 10-round magazine, allowing for multiple targets to be defended against without reloading. Conversely, pump shotguns can be problematic in stressful situations due to the risk of misfeeds during reloading.
When it comes to the shot size itself, personal preference largely depends on the distance and the type of threat. At close ranges, both birdshot and buckshot have their merits. Larger shot such as 0 or BB will penetrate more easily but also have a higher risk of over-penetration. Smaller shot like 9 birdshot may not penetrate a leather jacket, making it much less effective against a potentially dangerous individual.
For optimal home defense, Federal Premium's Reduced Recoil 1 Buckshot with Flite Control wad LE132–1B is recommended. This ammunition provides consistent penetration over 12 inches in ballistic gelatin, meeting FBI standards. Its larger cross-sectional area means it has a higher potential for striking vital organs, minimizing the risk of inadvertently injuring an innocent target.
For those using semi-auto shotguns, it's important to test the loaded if it's a reduced recoil load to ensure consistent cycling. Full power Federal Premium 00 Buckshot with Flite Control wad LE12700 is recommended for semi-autos where reliability is a concern. Both types of ammunition (1 Buckshot and 00 Buckshot) are generally sufficient and effective for home defense.
Addressing Safety Concerns and Defensive Strategies
A long-running debate exists around the use of birdshot for home defense. It's crucial to understand that any ammunition capable of penetrating a human body is likely to also breach walls, posing a risk to others. Videos that demonstrate birdshot's efficacy against soft tissue at close range are not entirely accurate because they don't account for variations in the assailant's clothing, body fat, or defensive positions, such as arms extending in front of the body or obstacles nearby.
The FBI requires a minimum of 12 inches of penetration in ballistic gelatin as part of its testing criteria, acknowledging real-world complexities such as varied clothing, body fat, and other obstructions. Extensive testing by the FBI, the International Wound Ballistics Association, and various firearms enthusiasts have proven that 1 Buckshot is the smallest pellet size that reliably penetrates 12 inches.
While some may argue that smaller shots like size 4 or BB birdshot are effective, personal preference and testing should guide the decision. At close range, larger shots will provide more immediate effect, and they are often preferred by those who prioritize immediate stoppage over the risk of over-penetration.
Conclusion
In summary, for home defense, selecting the best 12 gauge shotgun shell load means finding a balance in shot size that minimizes risks while ensuring effectiveness. Federal Premium's 1 Buckshot with Flite Control wad and 00 Buckshot with Flite Control wad are standouts, offering admirable penetration and energy distribution. However, any standard load of 1 Buckshot, 00 Buckshot, or 000 Buckshot will likely get the job done effectively.
Further Reading
The Box O Truth provides valuable insights into home defense ammunition testing and is highly recommended for further reading.