Quote:
Originally Posted by Krossinc
Hey, quick question for many of you. I've decided to purchase a 12 gauge shotgun for self-defense in the home. Recently, our neighbors dog was actually shot (Dachsund, by a .22) and then thrown over our fence to try and make it look like our dogs had mauled it. It's occurred to me that I'm not comfortable with the situation so I am purchasing a firearm. While that story was unnecessary for the question I'm still pretty rocked by the fact someone would kill a dog for no reason.
A few questions. I'm looking at a REMINGTON 870. The gun will occasionally see target practice but will generally be for at-home defense (bird/buck shot). From what I've read it seems like a solid choice, I was just looking for opinions.
Also, I've noticed prices differ greatly. I've seen things like 'express super magnum,' 'marine magnum, 'tactical,' 'express self-defense'. The Express Self-defense is the cheapest so tell me to get that one! Also, buying online. Why is it so much cheaper and is it worth buying online or should I stick to a store/show.
|
If I may, please don't even consider bird shot. It doesn't deal a lethal blow. You need buckshot. 00buck is .32cal pellets, 000 is .36.
The Box O' Truth - Ammo Penetration Testing
The Box O' Truth #3 - The Shotgun Meets the Box O' Truth - Page 1 is the shotgun test against drywall
On that site the guy tests different rounds against water jugs, which simulate the impact on a human. He also does tests against drywall, sand, brick, and more.
Quote:
We have done tests with various birdshot loads. Birdshot penetrated through two pieces of drywall (representing one wall) and was stopped in the paper on the front of the second wall. The problem with birdshot is that it does not penetrate enough to be effective as a defense round. Birdshot is designed to bring down little birds.
A policeman told of seeing a guy shot at close range with a load of 12 gauge birdshot, and was not even knocked down. He was still walking around when the EMTs got there. It was an ugly, shallow wound, but did not STOP the guy. And that is what we want... to STOP the bad guy from whatever he is doing. To do this, you must have a load that will reach the vitals of the bad guy. Birdshot will not do this.
In fact, tests have shown that even #4 Buckshot lacks the necessary penetration to reach the vital organs. Only 0 Buck, 00 Buck, and 000 Buck penetrate enough to reach the vital organs.
Unless you expect to be attacked by little birds, do not use birdshot. Use 00 Buck. It will do the job.
|
HTH