buckshot question

[don't shoot it's me]

I need to pick up some #4 buck (dept. issue) but it seems there are more than a few variants with different numbers....why would a particular load be 16 pellets in one and 27 in another? Wouldn't a certain amount fit in each shell uniformly? And what is the standard laod for 4 buck? Any suggestions for a 5 pack at a good price is welcome too...

[jhgreasemonkey]

Are you sure the lower count isnt 2 3/4" and the higher isnt a 3". That makes more sense to me. :confused:

[don't shoot it's me]

You are correct about that...but if you look at these choices you will also see 3 different amounts for the 2 3/4

http://www.sportsmansguide.com/cb/cb.asp?a=223712

:confused:

[ATW525]

16 pellets looks likes a misprint... that should be #1 Buck. Federal offers #4 Buck in 27 and 34 pellet loads. The former shoots a bit faster than the latter and might have a little less felt recoil as well.

[guntotin_fool]

payload weights vary. some are standard and some are heavy mag loads. just like low base 8's carry about an ounce to an ounce and a eighth. Hi base six's maybe 1 1/4 and mag's are sometimes 1 3/8ths, moving up, you can find 1 1/2 ounce, 1 5/8 turkey loads. All in a 2 3/4 inch case.