Shotguns are excellent options if you’re looking for plenty of short-range stopping power, but much can depend on the type of ammo you’re using.
While some types of shotgun ammunition are designed for maximum damage, others are more aimed at those looking for enhanced spread or accuracy.
So which one is best suited for you and your needs? Here, we’ll be going over the three main types of shotgun ammo – birdshot, buckshot and slugs – to assess their pros and cons, as well as looking at the situations they’re most suitable for.
Birdshot
As the name suggests, birdshot is primarily used for hunting birds and small game. It consists of multiple small pellets or BBs that are typically made from lead or steel.
The biggest advantage of birdshot is its widespread pattern, which makes it easier to hit agile, fast-moving targets like birds. However, its lightweight pellets lack sufficient stopping power for taking down larger game.
So if you’re hunting birds then birdshot or even small game at short distances then its spread can effectively cover a wide area without causing excessive damage to the meat, making it the ideal ammo.
Buckshot
Buckshot is similar to birdshot, although it’s designed for hunting larger game. This ammo is made from larger pellets, usually made from lead or sometimes steel.
Thanks to its meatier pellets, buckshot offers significantly more stopping power than birdshot. However, its tighter spread requires greater accuracy, especially at longer distances, so if accuracy isn’t your strong point then there may be better options.
Slugs
The final type of ammo on our list is the hardy slug, and we saved the best for last! Slugs are solid projectiles designed for maximum penetration and accuracy over long distances.
They are typically made from lead, although some may use other materials like steel or copper. Slugs offer unrivalled power and accuracy compared to birdshot and buckshot, making them suitable for hunting large game at extended ranges.
However, much like the buckshot shell, the limited spread that slugs offer requires precise aim, and they may cause excessive damage to game meat at close range.
Benefits Of Shotgun Storage Services
If you own a shotgun or you’re considering buying one, have you given much thought to where it’ll be kept? If not then you should as safe gun storage is one of the fundamental elements of responsible firearm ownership.
Keeping your gun stored properly not only enhances safety and helps keep you and your family secure, but it ensures you comply with the law and keeps your gun out of the wrong hands.
This is why many firearms owners opt for professional gun storage as this is undoubtedly the most secure way to store your gun.
If you own firearms and you’re in search of a place to keep your guns safely, we offer professional gun storage facilities. Speak to us about our services today.