Can someone explain the different shells to me?

[DJ E.]

Sorry for such an elementary post, but I really have no idea. I'm as virgin as you can get when it comes to shotgunning, although I did shoot a 12ga once when I was around 10.

What is the difference between 00 buck, 000 buck, birdshot, turkey shot, etc? I imagine slugs are just a massive wad of lead, similar to a bullet? Do they make hollowpoint slugs that expand also? Any info is appreciated...

DJ

 

[Dave McCracken]

Use the search feature to find the 101 series for beginning shotgunners. After reading that, ask about anything still not clear.

HTH...

 

[Traveler]

Another good source of precise information regarding this is to visit the Remington Ammo website. They will show the specific size of each size shot projectile and the various types available.

 

[Mike Irwin]

In a nutshell, the difference between 00, 000, turkey, bird, etc., is simply the size of the shot.

00 and 000 refer to specific shot sizes, while turkey and bird shot are smaller in size, but depending on with whom you're speaking it can mean different sizes.

 

[Mr Kablammo]

A good starting point is "Shotgunning, the Art and Science" by Bob Brister.

 

[Lennyjoe]

Slugs come in either pumpkin balls (massive wad of lead) or sabots which are a little smaller than massive and are in a plastic casing that is discarded after it leaves the barrel.

Buck shot goes by size as well as bird shot. Usually buckshot is for deer, other large animals or personal defense, BB, 1,2 are for ducks and geese (I think, its been a while) and from 4 down for small game and birds.

I prefer 7 1/2 for dove and quail, 6 for squirrel and rabbits and 5 for turkey.

Havent shot duck in a long time (81) so I am out of the loop on shot sizes and types. As soon as I get back to a state that has water I plan on getting back into hammering ducks.

 

[dance varmint]

I wouldn't recommend the Brister book for starters. A more practical text for the freshman might be The Farnam Method of Defensive Shotgun and Rifle Shooting.

 

[Darrin]

Dave McC's shotgun 101 threads.

Remington's site on shotshells.

 

[DJ E.]

Alright, thanks for all your help guys. Looks like I have a bit of reading to do. I'll see about renting those books from the library if they have them.

I'll be back if I have any more questions...

 

[45crittergitter]

http://www.ammobank.com/shotsize.html

 

[DJ E.]

Hey, thanks 45! That helps alot! Man, I'd hate to be hit by a bunch of those 000!