The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - 12ga vs. 20ga buckshot: terminal performance for practical purposes?

Oleg Volk · January 11, 2000, 12:10 AM

After trying several 12ga pumps, I found that I couldn't deal with the recoil of slugs and buckshot. I can deal with 20ga.

Now, 12ga buckshot at close range is reputed to be Hammer of Thor. How would 20ga loads compare? Slugs are close enough to 45/70 for me to think them adequate. What about 00 or #1 buckshot?

Also, has anyone a source of inexpensive practice ammo (in 12ga S&B makes a good cheap load) in 20ga?

January 11, 2000, 12:10 AM	#1
Oleg Volk Staff Alumnus Join Date: December 6, 1999 Location: Nashville, TN Posts: 7,022	After trying several 12ga pumps, I found that I couldn't deal with the recoil of slugs and buckshot. I can deal with 20ga. Now, 12ga buckshot at close range is reputed to be Hammer of Thor. How would 20ga loads compare? Slugs are close enough to 45/70 for me to think them adequate. What about 00 or #1 buckshot? Also, has anyone a source of inexpensive practice ammo (in 12ga S&B makes a good cheap load) in 20ga?