Best Buckshot for 20 Gauge: Our Top Picks & Buying Guide

Table of Contents

Why the 20 Gauge?

The ominous click of a shotgun shell chambering can be the ultimate deterrent. Whether it’s protecting your family from a nighttime intruder or putting down game in the field, the 20 gauge shotgun offers a potent combination of power and manageability. But the true effectiveness of any shotgun, especially when it comes to self-defense or hunting, lies in the ammunition it fires. This article dives deep into the world of buckshot for the 20 gauge, providing a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the right choices and understand how to get the most performance from your firearm.

Buckshot, as the name implies, consists of multiple, large pellets designed to inflict maximum damage at close to medium ranges. Unlike birdshot, which is ideal for smaller targets like birds, buckshot is designed for larger game or, crucially, for self-defense scenarios where stopping an attacker quickly is paramount. But with various sizes, brands, and intended uses, selecting the best buckshot for 20 gauge can feel overwhelming. This guide will simplify the process, offering insights into what to consider and our recommendations for some of the top performing buckshot options currently available.

Before we dive into specific buckshot recommendations, let’s address why the 20 gauge shotgun is a fantastic choice. The 20 gauge sits in a sweet spot between the larger, more powerful 12 gauge and the smaller .410 bore. It offers several advantages:

Reduced Recoil: The 20 gauge generally produces less recoil than a 12 gauge, making it easier for smaller shooters, women, and those new to shotguns to handle and shoot accurately. This is especially crucial in high-stress situations like self-defense, where control is paramount.
Manageable Size and Weight: 20 gauge shotguns tend to be lighter and more compact than their 12-gauge counterparts. This makes them easier to maneuver in confined spaces, a crucial factor in home defense scenarios.
Effective for Various Applications: While the 20 gauge doesn’t have the sheer power of a 12 gauge, it’s still incredibly effective for both self-defense and hunting smaller game like deer, turkey, and hogs (depending on local regulations).

Understanding Buckshot Essentials

Buckshot ammunition, like all shotgun shells, is a complex assembly of components working in harmony to propel pellets downrange. Understanding these components and their functions is vital to choosing the best buckshot for your specific needs.

Buckshot Basics: What is it?

Buckshot is defined by its size. Unlike birdshot, which uses smaller pellets, buckshot uses larger pellets, typically from .20 inches to .36 inches in diameter. These larger pellets deliver significantly more energy upon impact. The number of pellets in a buckshot load varies depending on the shell size and the pellet size. A standard 20 gauge shell might contain anywhere from 8 to 24 pellets. The greater the number of pellets, the denser the pattern at closer ranges, which is often desired in self-defense situations. However, more pellets can also lead to a more open pattern at longer distances, impacting accuracy.

Buckshot Sizes: Deciphering the Numbers

Buckshot sizes are generally referred to using a number system. The sizes and number of pellets per shell vary. Here’s a general overview:

#3 Buckshot: Contains pellets, typically around .25 inches in diameter. While still suitable for some self-defense applications at close range, it is more frequently used for hunting smaller game, such as rabbits and coyotes, depending on local regulations.
#2 Buckshot: Contains pellets around .27 inches in diameter. Offers a bit more stopping power than #3.
#1 Buckshot: Pellets are about .30 inches in diameter.
00 Buckshot (Double-ought Buck): The most popular buckshot size for both self-defense and hunting. Pellets are about .33 inches in diameter. The most common 20 gauge load, often containing 9 or 8 pellets.
000 Buckshot (Triple-ought Buck): Contains pellets about .36 inches in diameter. The largest commonly available buckshot size.

The bigger the number of “oughts” (00, 000), the bigger the pellet, and the fewer pellets you get in a shell. The larger the pellet diameter, the more energy each pellet carries, and the more potentially devastating the impact.

Shotgun Shell Anatomy

Understanding the components of a shotgun shell can help you make more informed decisions about the ammunition you choose. The key components include:

The Hull: The outer casing of the shell, typically made of plastic. It contains all the other components.
The Primer: A small explosive charge at the base of the shell that ignites the gunpowder.
The Powder: The propellant that generates the expanding gas that drives the shot down the barrel.
The Wad: A crucial component located between the powder and the shot pellets. The wad serves multiple purposes: protecting the pellets from the abrasive forces of the barrel, sealing the gases behind the pellets for optimal pressure, and often aiding in the pattern of the shot.
The Shot: This is the buckshot itself, the lead or other material pellets.

The Importance of Patterning Your Shotgun

Patterning your shotgun is absolutely essential for determining how your chosen buckshot performs in your particular firearm. Patterning involves shooting at a target at a specific distance and observing how the pellets spread out. This process helps you:

Determine Effective Range: It helps you know how far you can shoot the buckshot while maintaining adequate pellet density on target.
Evaluate Different Ammunition: Different brands, and even different loads from the same brand, can produce significantly different patterns.
Understand Your Choke’s Effect: Your choke will have a big impact on how the buckshot patterns.
Improve Accuracy: By understanding the pattern of your shotgun, you can adjust your aim accordingly, accounting for pellet spread.

To pattern your shotgun:

Choose a Safe Location: Use a range or area safe from unintended targets.
Set up a Target: Place a large paper target (e.g., a sheet of paper) at the appropriate distance (typically 15-25 yards).
Aim Carefully: Aim the shotgun at the center of the target.
Fire a Shot: Fire a single round of the buckshot you’re testing.
Analyze the Pattern: Examine the target. Count the number of pellet holes within a specific area (e.g., a 12-inch circle). Determine the density of the pattern.
Repeat: Fire several shots and record the results to get an average pattern.
Adjust: Change your choke, try different types of buckshot, and repeat until you find the combination that gives you the best results for your needs.

Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider

Choosing the best buckshot for 20 gauge involves several factors, going beyond just the size of the pellets. Here are key considerations:

Purpose of Use: Self-Defense vs. Hunting

Self-Defense/Home Defense: The primary goal is to stop a threat quickly and decisively. Considerations include:
- Effective Range: Choose ammunition that delivers a tight, dense pattern at common engagement distances (typically inside of 25 yards).
- Stopping Power: Look for a buckshot size that delivers sufficient energy to incapacitate an attacker. 00 Buckshot is often a top choice for self-defense, though #3 buckshot can also be considered depending on other factors.
- Recoil: Consider the recoil and how it affects your ability to fire follow-up shots.
Hunting: The primary goal is to effectively harvest game animals. Considerations include:
- Game Type: The size and type of the game animal will dictate the appropriate buckshot size. Larger animals require larger pellets.
- Range: Determine the typical shooting distances. Choose ammunition that delivers an effective pattern at those ranges.
- Penetration: Buckshot needs to penetrate the animal’s vital organs to ensure a clean kill.

Shotgun Choke: Shaping Your Pattern

The choke is a constriction at the muzzle end of your shotgun barrel. Different chokes influence how the buckshot spreads out. Choosing the right choke can significantly impact your pattern:

Cylinder Bore: No constriction. Produces the widest pattern. Good for close-range self-defense.
Improved Cylinder: Moderate constriction. Provides a tighter pattern than a cylinder bore. Suitable for self-defense and hunting at closer ranges.
Modified: More constriction. Produces a tighter pattern, extending the effective range. Suitable for hunting at medium ranges.
Full: Maximum constriction. Produces the tightest pattern, extending the effective range even further. May be too tight for some buckshot loads.

Test your shotgun with different chokes to see how they affect your patterns using different buckshot loads.

Recoil Management: Shooting Comfort and Control

Recoil can significantly impact your ability to shoot accurately and effectively. While 20 gauge generally has less recoil than 12 gauge, recoil is still a consideration, especially for smaller individuals or those who are new to shotguns.

Ammunition Selection: Consider lighter loads to reduce recoil.
Shotgun Features: Look for shotguns with features designed to mitigate recoil, such as recoil pads.
Proper Shooting Technique: A good shooting stance and grip are vital for controlling recoil.

Price and Accessibility: Budgeting and Finding Your Ammo

Buckshot ammunition prices can vary. It is essential to find a balance between performance and cost.

Pricing: Buckshot is generally more expensive than birdshot. Shop around to compare prices from different retailers.
Availability: Different brands and loads may be more readily available in certain areas or at certain retailers.

Top Buckshot Recommendations for 20 Gauge

Here are some of our top buckshot recommendations for the 20 gauge, broken down by the intended use:

For Self-Defense/Home Defense:

Federal Premium Personal Defense 20 Gauge 2 3/4″ 00 Buckshot: Known for its excellent performance and consistent patterns. This ammunition is designed specifically for self-defense scenarios. Typically delivers 9 pellets of 00 buckshot. Federal’s innovative wads contribute to tight and reliable patterns.
Hornady Critical Defense 20 Gauge 2 3/4″ 00 Buckshot: Hornady’s Critical Defense line is a top choice for self-defense, thanks to its carefully selected components and reliable performance. Designed with clean burning powders for reduced recoil and consistent, devastating patterns. Typically delivers 8 pellets of 00 buckshot.
Remington Premier Magnum 20 Gauge 2 3/4″ 00 Buckshot: A powerful and effective option. These shells deliver a high number of pellets downrange and the heavier payloads ensure maximum stopping power.

For Hunting (Deer and Similar Game):

Winchester Super-X 20 Gauge 3″ 00 Buckshot: A good option for deer hunting at medium ranges. This option delivers 9 pellets of 00 buckshot and offers excellent penetration. The Super-X line is known for its reliability and consistent performance.
Hevi-Shot Hevi-12 20 Gauge 3″ 00 Buckshot: This is a premium option designed for optimal patterns. It delivers 9 pellets of 00 buckshot, and with its hard pellets, it is often used in hunting waterfowl as well as deer.
Remington Slugger 20 Gauge 2 3/4″ 00 Buckshot: A widely available and reliable option. It delivers 9 pellets of 00 buckshot, and is well regarded as effective.

Safety First: Essential Tips

Always Treat Every Firearm as if It is Loaded: Never point a gun at anything you are not willing to destroy.
Practice Safe Gun Handling: Be aware of your surroundings and follow all safe gun handling practices.
Eye and Ear Protection: Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting.
Storage: Store ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from children.
Legal Considerations: Be aware of the local laws regarding firearm ownership, self-defense, and hunting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best buckshot size for home defense?

00 Buckshot is a common and effective choice due to its balance of pellet size, number of pellets, and stopping power. The “best” size, however, can depend on your specific shotgun, choke, and the distance you expect to engage a threat. Patterning your gun is essential.

Can I use buckshot in a rifled barrel?

While some shotguns have rifled barrels, it is generally best to avoid using buckshot in a rifled barrel, as it can negatively affect patterns and accuracy.

How far does buckshot travel?

The effective range of buckshot depends on the size of the buckshot, the choke, and the load. It can travel up to 50 yards, although the effective range for accurate hits is significantly less.

How does the wad affect buckshot patterns?

The wad helps to protect the shot from the barrel, control the pressure of the expanding gases, and aid in the pattern of the shot. The best wad is engineered to offer the best possible patterns.

Where can I find 20 gauge buckshot?

You can find 20 gauge buckshot at most gun stores, online retailers that sell ammunition, and some sporting goods stores.

What are the advantages of 20 gauge over 12 gauge?

20 gauge offers less recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot, and it’s typically lighter and more maneuverable than a 12 gauge.

In Conclusion

Selecting the right buckshot for your 20 gauge is a crucial step in ensuring that you’re prepared for both self-defense and hunting. By understanding the factors involved, from buckshot size to choke selection, and by patterning your shotgun, you can optimize your firearm’s performance. The recommended options above are a great starting point, but always remember to prioritize safety, practice responsibly, and choose ammunition that meets your specific needs. Remember to consult with local laws and guidelines.

Remember to practice and hone your skills. With the right ammunition and knowledge, your 20 gauge shotgun can be a reliable tool for personal safety and the responsible harvesting of game.