|
|
|
Discussion Forums
Forum Index
> Medium and large game hunting
> 12 Gauge Slug (wound channel)
12 Gauge Slug (wound channel)
@ 04:25 pm (GMT) |
Scott TrowbridgeI searched the forum and did not see it this topic mentioned, possible for good reason.How does the wound channel and terminal performance of the better 12 gauge slugs (Brenneke, Federal TruBall, etc) compare to say a 308W / 155-178gr match or hunting bullet at 50-75yds? Do the .72cal slugs at 1200-1400fps perform more like a BIG pistol bullet? Or are they large enough give terminal performance similar to a rifle or better? Is there ever a time under 75yds you would prefer a 12g slug over a good rifle round on deer, goat, or black bear sized animals? |
Replies
@ 06:57 am (GMT) |
Nathan FosterRe: 12 Gauge Slug (wound channel)Hi Scott, a 12 gauge slug can produce a very large disproportionate to caliber wound. The factors involved include a large frontal area, high momentum and soft construction. At close ranges, the slug produces both hydraulic force and a direct mechanical cutting force.As you know, the cup shaped slug is like a reversed handgun bullet in that the hollow is at the rear rather than being front facing. It is somewhat like a badminton cock. Upon impact, the slug expands forward, rather than peeling / expanding back as per a regular projectile. If it meets relatively solid resistance or heavy bone, the slug breaks up into large fragments. The internal wound can be very large. Note however that if shots fall too far back toward the liver, the combination of hydraulic force and fragments may open the gut quite dramatically, fouling the carcass. Penetration is generally adequate but due to the soft nature of the non-jacketed slug, there is no guarantee of a straight line. wide and heavy handgun projectiles can also produce hydraulic force at lower impact velocities than small bore rifle bullets. Factors again (the .44 mag as a primary example) include a wide frontal area, high bullet weight and soft construction (thin jacket combined with gaping HP). Note that if a .44 Magnum XTP is fired backwards, it behaves in the same manner as a Brenneke style 12 gauge slug. Upon impact, the projectile expands forward. Having lost its crimp during this process, the core separates, yaws and may break up thereafter. The wound is larger than it would be if the bullet were fired forward, but it tends to produce relatively shallow penetration and may not exit medium sized game. Usage of the 12 gauge really comes down to accuracy potential. Most shotguns lack sights and have terrible triggers (heavy plus creep). In addition to this, rifled slugs are not highly accurate. So it really depends on the individual firearm. If you have a shotgun that shoots well, then yes, it can be worth pursuing. |
|
@ 08:37 am (GMT) |
Scott TrowbridgeRe: 12 Gauge Slug (wound channel)Thank you for the detailed answer!!!Do you think the wound channel of the harder Brenneke slugs would be noticeably different than the softer "Fosters" badminton cock type slugs? I would assume the Brenneke would have deeper penetration, especially if bone was hit but possibly less empathic if hit is less than ideal? |
Please wait
ABOUT USWe are a small, family run business, based out of Taranaki, New Zealand, who specialize in cartridge research and testing, and rifle accurizing.
|
KNOWLEDGEBASE |
KNOWLEDGEBASE |