By Gun Digest Team - 2024

If you’re into hunting, home defense, or just love geeking out over powerful gun gear, then you’ve probably heard about 12-gauge slugs. These bad boys are no joke when it comes to raw stopping power. To put it in perspective, a typical .30-06 round hits around a power factor of 400, but a 12-gauge slug? It can easily push into the 700s. That’s nearly double the punch!

What Makes 12-Gauge Slugs So Powerful?

Unlike traditional birdshot or buckshot shells, 12-gauge slugs are single, hefty projectiles designed to deliver maximum impact. This makes them perfect for situations where you need serious penetration and accuracy at moderate distances. Whether you're out in the woods or prepping for defense, slugs offer a reliable blend of power and precision.

Best Uses for 12-Gauge Slugs

From taking down big game like deer to tactical scenarios, slugs are versatile. They shine in dense brush where shot pellets might spread too wide, and their heavy mass helps maintain velocity over longer shots. Plus, with modern rifled barrels and slug-specific chokes, accuracy has never been better.

Choosing the Right Slug Ammo

Not all slugs are created equal. You’ve got options ranging from sabot slugs, which are great for rifled barrels, to rifled slugs for smoothbores. Depending on your shotgun setup and intended use, picking the right slug ammo is key to getting that tight group and effective energy transfer.

Final Thoughts

If you want a shotgun round that delivers serious knockdown power with impressive