Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy want to go over #4 buckshot. This buckshot loading is utilized by many end users for a variety of purposes. Our mission with this blog post is to go over the #4 buckshot loading while delving into things like traits and use cases. Without further ado, let’s get into it.
The term ”buckshot” refers to a collection of projectiles which are fired from a shotgun shell. While most shotgun loadings besides slugs utilize multiple projectiles, not all loadings can be classified as buckshot. One of the most common types of shotgun loadings one will encounter would be birdshot. Like buckshot, birdshot loadings will feature multiple projectiles. The difference between these types of loadings is evident in the size of the projectiles, or “shot.” Birdshot loadings contain a considerable number of small projectiles while buckshot loadings hold a number of larger projectiles. The quantity of projectiles in both loadings will be dependent on the size of projectiles contained in the shell. Simply put, the quantity of projectiles is determined by the shot size itself. Buckshot is commonly found in a variety of loadings such as 00, #1, and #4 just to name a few.
While birdshot projectiles are designed to have a wide spread, buckshot loadings are made to deliver their projectiles into a tighter area and stay closer together when in flight. The close proximity of projectiles while in flight makes the loading viable for self-defense. Simply put, multiple projectiles impacting in the same area makes for a devastating effect on target. It is because of this that buckshot loadings have been trusted for duty use and for home defense.
Typical #4 buckshot loadings will feature projectiles with a .24” diameter. These projectiles are essentially just a bit smaller than the projectiles found on .25 ACP loadings. The smaller shot size allows for a greater number of projectiles to be packed into each shell. For example, a 12 gauge 00 buckshot loading will generally contain eight pellets while typical #4 buckshot loadings in the same caliber can feature projectile counts in the twenties. Some loadings, such as SAR USA’s 12 gauge #4 buckshot loading, can feature as many as 27 pellets, allowing a user to send a considerable number of projectiles down range. Stepping up to longer shotgun shells also provides a greater number of projectiles than common 2 ¾” loadings. For example, Federal offers a 3” copper plated #4 buckshot loading which features an impressive 41 pellets.
As far as acquiring #4 buckshot loadings, one will typically find options in both 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 gauge. These three calibers are some of the most common shotgun calibers one will encounter. Firearms chambered in these calibers are also common and easily acquired. Of course, the larger 12 gauge loadings will hold more pellets than the smaller 20 gauge and .410 gauge loadings. Simply put, the bigger the shell, the greater number of projectiles. 12 gauge ammunition offerings are also much more common and plentiful than 20 gauge and .410 gauge loadings of this type.
Like other buckshot loadings, the #4 buckshot excels in close range applications. It is in these close-range applications where something like a shotgun configured for home defense use is most optimal. As projectiles leave the muzzle, they begin to spread out over time. Most buckshot loadings when fired from a barrel ranging from 18.5 to 20 inches will still be effectively tight on a silhouette target at about 25 yards. The closer one is to a target, the tighter the pattern. A tighter pattern means that all of the projectiles in flight will be hitting closer to each other.
The #4 buckshot loading is often touted for its limited potential to pierce walls. This is to say that it does not have the same potential for overpenetration that other loadings or calibers have. This is important in the context of home defense as one should always try to limit collateral and unintended damage. Excessive penetration could potentially lead to tragic accidents or mishaps in which unintended targets are hit. That being said, the #4 buckshot certainly does possess less overpenetration potential than a loading like 00 buckshot. While the potential is reduced, that does not mean that penetration is nonexistent.
When it comes to home defense, one should consider the specificities of their situation and weigh this information against potential firearms and loadings they may use. Are there other residents in the home to consider? Are your neighbors close by? Essentially, one must examine their circumstances and determine the best and most optimal firearm, loading, and defense plan for their situation. Depending on your specific situation, #4 buckshot may or may not be optimal.
Slugs are another popular loading often used for self-defense purposes. The fundamental difference between these two types of loadings is quite obvious and distinct. While #4 buckshot loadings feature multiple projectiles, slug loads simply feature one solid projectile. These slugs are capable of achieving high velocities and imparting a staggering degree of energy transfer, making them highly effective for both hunting and self-defense. Slugs are also capable of being effectively used out to greater distances than #4 buckshot loadings are.
The #4 buckshot loading has also been employed by hunters. The loading, especially in specialized offerings optimized for hunting, is capable of dispatching game such as predators, deer, and hogs. Larger-sized game is best pursued with different loadings or calibers. When hunting, one must ensure that they know their firearm and ammunition prior to pursuing game. Utilizing an appropriate firearm and loading will optimize your hunting experience and help ensure an ethical hunt.
Multiple #4 buckshot loadings available on the market today. Companies like SAR USA, Federal, Hornady, and Remington. Federal specifically produces personal defense #4 buckshot loadings in both 12 gauge and 20 gauge. Beyond defensive loadings, one will also encounter a variety of loadings optimized for hunting usage. These loadings can feature longer shells and be lead free, tailoring them to preferences of hunters and increasing their viability. All in all, one will have no issue finding #4 buckshot loadings for their intended use case.
The answer to this question is a resounding “no.” There are a wide variety of shotgun loadings available on the market. Each loading is optimized for different tasks and use cases. You would not use #4 buckshot for upland bird hunting. Conversely, you would not use birdshot for home defense purposes. The #4 buckshot is one of many potential loadings one can utilize for a variety of tasks. If the loading is good for your application, use it. If it is not, use something else. Shotguns are incredibly versatile firearms, allowing end users to choose ammunition optimized for specific purposes.
All in all, the #4 buckshot loading is a viable shotgun loading for a variety of purposes. The loading just may be the right one for you and your use cases. We here at True Shot carry #4 buckshot in addition to the other loadings and calibers we stock. Whether you are after shotgun ammunition or something else, we have got you covered. As always, happy shooting.
Need bulk ammo? At True Shot Ammo, we have a wide variety of handgun ammo and rifle ammo available to purchase. Please visit our website trueshotammo.com, call us at (888) 736-6587, or you can email us at [email protected] for more ammo options.
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One Response
If some one enters my house unaurtherized my goal is to eliminate the threat! I like #4 buckshot because it doesn’t over penetrate & it’s a doctors nightmare to fix all those multiple wound channels! 00 Buck has more knock down power but more over penetration issues,& less wound channels to fix!!