The physics of birdshot says different.
But don't take my word, check the evidence of those who have done the tests.
It's not my idea, I'm just relaying the message.
According to them the effectiveness of birdshot depends on how many pellets hit the target.
The energy of each pellet in the round is divided up by the total number of pellets.
Not all that much for each one.
However,
At home defense distance, probably measured in mere feet, there's very little spread.
Most all of them hit together, simulating a single projectile, sometimes even including the wad.
Maybe something like a "cut" round.
That's what they say.
From my own tests, it looks correct.
Maybe not the best end all choice for a home defense round, but nothing feeble about it.
Also consider what fast, multiple rounds would do.
If birdshot was all that was available, no reason to think it was useless.
Remember, we're considering home defense distances, like in a bedroom, not engaging small game at twenty yards.
