Slugs

S

Shodan

New member
Can someone take the time to get me up to speed on modern shotgun slugs? I guess in a hunting context, but home defense info is OK also. The last time I used them was 20 gauge punkin' balls in a Savage O&U 20+ years ago.

I have a Winchester 1300 (Black Shadow I think) with an extra full choke for turkey. If I want to use it for deer I assume a slug barrel is the most accurate option. What choke tube, if any would I use if I don't get a slug barrel?

Don't worry about getting off topic, I'm looking for any info you all have to offer.

Thanks,

Shodan
 
I've had good results with both improved cylinder and modified chokes. The sight system is a bit more critical. With twin beads, 50 yards is a chip shot, rifle sights takes you to 100.

What sort of sight system is on the 1300?
 
It has fiber optic rifle sights added to the rib by a previous owner. I have removed the 2.5 power scope while I use it for home defense.

I never got a chance at a turkey while the scope was mounted, but shot 3 groundhogs at about 30 yards with #4 turkey loads.

I'm just curios about potential slug performance. I only plan to use the 1300 after (if?:rolleyes: ) I get a deer with my bow and rifle first. Thankfully, I don't live in an area that mandates shotgun only.

Is it correct that there are different slug types for rifled slug barrels and smoothbores?

Shodan
 
Is it correct that there are different slug types for rifled slug barrels and smoothbores?
Click to expand...

You are indeed correct, Shodan.

Smoothbores require (well at least work better) with a RIFLED slug. Since there is no rifling in the barrel, it needs something to get it spinning to provide stabilization.

Rifled barrels work best with non-rifled slugs. Sabots, I believe they're called.

For some reason, shooting slugs sounds, and feels, like shooting a cannon. :cool:

Stinger
 
lots of threads here, and you can search for them. Just bear in mind the differences between sabot slugs and foster slugs. They are not really interchangable.

I have been pleased with the Hastings WadLock II barrel using both buckshot and foster slugs in my Browning A-5. Seems to work well for hunting, and for self defence.
 
As has been said, a quick use of the search button will turn up scads of information. The short version is that you need another choke tube, xtra full is too tight for safety. The jury seems out on rifled choke tubes, some report that accuracy improves, but not by much. YMMV

Each shotgun likes different slugs. Several of us have had positive results with Kent's KO slugs, but there are no ineffective slugs. Use what your gun likes best. Nice thing is that buying several of the five packs for testing is affordable. I'd forget about zero at first, just get on paper at 50 yards or so and test for accuracy. If your planning 100y shots, that would be the magic range.

I have not tried the 1300 with slugs, but be aware that my 870's zero changes when I remove and re-install the barrel. Once zero''d, it stays dirty through the season.

Using a pad or towel between you and the butt when shooting from a bench helps bunches. Recoil is pretty stout with slugs - about like a .375 H&H. Idea is to test the gun, not your shoulder.

BTW, how did the number 4 birdshot work on Mr. Woodchuck?
 
Thanks for the info guys. Hopefully I'll get a deer or two with my primary weapons and get a chance to try the 1300. I also have a 30-30 with a scout mounted red dot I'm looking forward to trying.

Gizmo,

The woodchucks were very dead, but the damage was not devastating at 30 yards.

Short but funny story. I have Direct TV (small satalite dish) and it needs an unobstructed view of the southern sky. It seems that when it rained, a tree branch with a bunch of grape vines on it would sag down and block the signal. Well, not wanting to climb the 40 foot tree and cut the branch what was a country boy to do? Only two shots from the 1300 did the trick.:cool: You might be a redneck if ... you prune trees with your Winchester.:D

Thanks again for all the info.

Shodan
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top