Originally Posted By: crapshootOriginally Posted By: SnowmanMoOriginally Posted By: GCLet's make sure we are discussing the same situation, the OP stated that Bubba says the patterns in the video were impressive for predators and self defense at 60 yards.
I like 4 Buck. Like 4 Buck a lot, killed a lot of critters with it. I have killed coyote over 50 yards with it numerous times. I have no argument with that, though I would like to see the video and the patterns.
At typical home defense ranges a load of 4 Buck would be devastating against human attackers. I know exactly how well my Benelli patterns and out to 30-35 yards (which is well beyond the typical home defense ranges) I think it would prove very effective on an attacker. Now remember, that's not what was said, Bubba said 60 yards. Also remember, the FBI and LE actually used 4 Buck against armed adversaries and found penetration and stopping power lacking at longer distances. That isn't a guess, it happened often enough that LE shifted back to larger buckshot.
The thought about buckshot for LE has actually gravitated to something in the middle, 1 Buck is a superb choice. 1 Buck has an improved pellet count over the old standard 00 Buck and yet remains large enough and heavy enough to be give reliable penetration at longer distances.
Still waiting to see which video Keith is referring to.
Those are some great points. Many of which I agree with. I think that 60 yards is a "fantasy" self defense scenario for the majority of folks. While distances like those may be a bit more realistic for law enforcement, that's why they are carrying carbines in their cruisers these days.
So while I agree that #4 wouldn't be my choice for a self defense situation, I wouldn't choose a shotgun for a 60 yard engagement in the first place. Not with ANY shot size or choke.
Don't forget the "B" in TAB+1--Be aware of your target AND beyond! You own ALL those pellets going downrange, and regardless of how good the pattern was, many of those pellets still missed.
So I think you bring up a good point about "home defense" distances. In a house, sure. In a mall parking lot...not a chance.
For me, that would depend on what other weapons i had on hand and the severity of the threat.
Also a good point. Sometimes it seems as though guys fantasize about the apocalypse and the idea that they are going to have their entire 52 gun arsenal, 55,000 rounds right there, on hand, at the exact moment they need it, meanwhile the evil doers are armed with a BB gun.
The reality is, when things hop off, the best weapon you have is your wits and your training. I would happily take something over nothing, but I do tend to choose my firearms carefully in order to give me the best chances. When I am out hunting, I have my Glock with me, loaded for 2 legged coyotes...you never know.