What should I load in my 870 for HD?

[Tenn870]

I'm gonna go out and buy some 00, and #4 buck and see how they do, great advice guys thanks!

 

[inSight-NEO]

I'm gonna go out and buy some 00, and #4 buck and see how they do, great advice guys thanks!

Might I suggest you try http://www.ammunitiontogo.com for your ammo. They have a good selection, when stuff is in stock anyway. For the 00 Buck, I would suggest grabbing some Federal LE Tactical Low-Recoil (9 pellet) buckshot. I use this stuff and not only is it easy on the shoulder, it patterns very, very well at respectable distances. Just something to think about.

If they do not have the LE load (which they may not as its apparently hard to get at times), maybe try the Power Shok Low-Recoil 00 Buck. Its essentially the same thing, minus the "flitecontrol" wadding. It may not pattern quite as well, but it will still do the trick. In either form, I love the stuff.

 

[AKElroy]

It depends on your situation. Worrying about shooting through walls? Then your first concern is to be sure all your friendlies are under cover behind you before you start shooting. Having a good home defense plan is more important than worrying about overpenetration.

This is another issue I have changed my views on. I used to advocate #6 3" Turkey loads because they were devestating on the media I was shooting. (Junk, fruit, cactus, old cars, etc) Many threads on the subject forced more study, and now I use a far more effective load that actually stops people.

We have worked out a disciplined plan as a family, everyone knows where they should be if the alarm sounds. My 1300 defender is loaded with federal Premium 2 3/4" 00, a streamlight & side saddle.

Like Lee says, work out a plan so that you can use something effective. Look at some of the Hog threads running, and you will find a few posts decrying 4 buck as just shy of useless against them. I want 00. Unless your family is assaulted by a watermellon, in which case I would go with the Turkey loads.

 

[Tenn870]

We got some pretty mean melons here in Maryland.

 

[Al LaVodka]

HD. Home defense. Close range. In and just around the house. In the defensive role. Open Cylinder. 15 Meter optimal pattern.

Swan Shot is better than acceptable. For hit probability/multiple hits and effectiveness in penetration without long-range over-penetration but with serious system-affecting energy delivery at the generally intended ranges it is also better than 00 buck for the many reasons mentioned, IMO.

Al

 

[Guns and more]

I go with #4 buck. 2 3/4".
I believe it is a good compromise between over penetration and ineffective.

your first concern is to be sure all your friendlies are under cover behind you before you start shooting.

I love movie talk.
In reality, your neighbors are in danger, so be careful when pulling the trigger.

 

[.45Heater]

Just put some of this stuff in there.... it'll get it done.

 

[Manco]

Since some bab guys haved move up to BA; I keep some HP Slugs in mine along with the 00 Buck.

Well, I guess that's as good a reason as any if you feel you have to resort to mixed loads, but perhaps the following load would be a decent compromise:

http://www.winchester.com/Products/New-Products/Pages/pdx1-12.aspx

I'm not sure what I think of it overall, though...I'll have to mull this one over a bit....

 

[opie4386]

i use this................. http://www.ammunitiontogo.com/catalog1/product_info.php/pName/10rds-12-gauge-centurion-le-2-34-multidefense-buck/cName/12-gauge-buckshot

 

[wrs840]

Just put some of this stuff in there.... it'll get it done...

Surely you jest. (?) I can't think of a single rational reason to use 3" magnum 00 buck at self defense range, especially within a domicile.

Les