plated vs unplated buckshot in gel

[SnakeLogan]

Almost all the tests in gelatin I've seen of 00 buckshot rounds (my HD load) have been done with unplated shot. Specifically, my HD round is Remington and Winchester unplated 12 pellet 00 buck. Any idea how Federal Premium or Winchester Supreme 12 pellet buck would perform in 10% gel? More penetration?

 

[Spirit 1]

That's an interesting question. Seems to me at 'Home Defense' ranges it really won't make a measurable difference. Pretty much a matter of mass/velocity that will have the greatest effect.

 

[Kindrox]

I'm not sure what affect plating the shot has? I think it is federal that is selling a BB load for SD and claimed the BBs were denser than lead. Denser than lead seems to be a claim that could have merit.

 

[Dave McCracken]

Plating, SUPPOSEDLY, helps keep shot rounder and thus patterns better. I have patterned a few plated loads and see little difference with big pellets like 00 between GOOD versions of either.

 

[oneounceload]

More antimony and plating will help maintain patterns at longer ranges - not so much so at HD distances

 

[snooperman]

According to my old shotgun digest book--

And reloading manual, DAVE & ONEOUNCELOAD are correct, that plated shot and buckshot maintains patterns at longer distances. For home defense regular unplated buckshot seems to work quite well.

 

[Snowdog]

Plated shot in a transparent hull is nice and shiny, giving you the happiness. (Sorry, just got done catching up on some engrish sites).

I was told that the nickel-plated #4 buck that Fiocchi uses in their loads were harder than dead soft lead. I would think the lack much deformation upon impact would promote deeper penetration (which isn't a bad thing with the small, 20gr #4 buck pellet).
Granted, I only purchased Fiocchi because they were on sale.