20 gauge - self defense load

[solrac7]

The trick with the wax, is a oldie but goodie, very little ricochet chance, and dumps all of the energy in the target. (Think of Glaser safety slugs) I'm not sure how quickly they would incapacitate an attacker though
... Needs some research.

[lagco]

I'd be careful with any exotic homebrew load for defense - it might upset an ADA or a jury. Make your own decision and listen to your own ideas on the subject, and I won't condemn either way.

#4 buck sounds about right for a 20 ga. It's a smart choice - still plenty of power, but you should be able to, with the recoil difference, get off about 4 shots for every 3 the 12 ga user fires. The only drawback is that most defensive rounds are made for 12 ga.

[solrac7]

True dat. I was just lamenting the availability of 20 gauge loads... Don't want to sell the gun, cause they're not worth much, so I'd rather use it. 20 g rounds are not as readily available as the 12g and the variety is severely limited. Oh well.

[Boondox]

Rio makes a #1 buck that I have used in the 20. Can get this normally at SGammo. It's a 9 pellet load.

[solrac7]

Thanks Boondox, There are a bunch of loads on-line - and the Rio #1 looks like a solid choice. The choices at local stores are miserable.

[Boondox]

I have had he same trouble looking for 20ga loads at local shops also ............... about the only thing I ever found local were some Remington #3 buck loads. Those are a nice load if looking for multi purpose shells or something less than the 9 pellet loads IMO.

[spdemt-p]

Herter’s makes a defense round that contains 2 round balls, can’t remember the diameter of them though

[Delkal]

We are overthinking things here..........any of the 20 ga buck loads (and even the 1 1/2 ounces of 4 turkey shot) will take care of anything in your house and then some. But, while effective I wouldn't recommend any magnum 3 inch load (the 4 turkey load?) stick with 2 3/4.

Everyone seems to think there is something magical about 00 loads. They are better for distance but at short ranges any buck load will do.

And in case anyone is wondering. You can't fit two 00 buckshot side by side in a 20 ga. It will never pack right so that is why you can't find it. I think a few obscure companies list it but its a gimmick.

[solrac7]

Delkal, I'm curious as to why you say to steer clear of the 3" - short stroking? (and please, keep the personal comments about that to a minimum ! LOL) or do you feel there is some other disadvantage?

[DonBiase]

One of my daughters uses a pump 20 as her house gun.
The 12's beat her up enough that she didn't like to practice.
Any of the buckshot loads will do a respectable job at house ranges.