Tactical 12ga. Standard vs Magnum loads

[BC Bigbore]

I apoligize if this has been discussed but was wondering if there is any real advantage to 3" magnum loads in a "tactical" shotgun? It's a short range gun anyway so wouldn't the standard loads offer less recoil for faster recovery? What about those really short Mexican shells I saw in Guns & Ammo a while back. I think they were 1.75" (?) and were loaded w/shot or slugs. So while still offering the effectiveness of a scatter gun, you'd have less recoil and could fit even more in the magazine = more firepower To my way of thinking, it would make more sense to save the magnum loads for hunting waterfowl and game animals where legal. What's your take on this?

 

[pitdogboy]

I guess there are a few questions here:

I don't see any advantage myself tactically speaking. ...but I sure like shooting them ..BOOM!

I am interested in hearing the opinions of the CGN'ers that actually have hands on experience.

 

[IanC]

I wouldnt use magnum loads myself. A friend and me both have short tac guns. He brought out some 3 inch slugs and buckshot loads. I suppose he shot 20 or so and his shoulder was lets just say tenderized.

I wouldnt want to imagine wat a 3.5 would be like. Did i mention he shoots a short barrel cooey? The 3 inch wasnt too bad in mine since ive got a 20"870 with mag ext. and a kickeez pad.

Since when we go out we shoot quite a few rounds i wouldnt want the added cost and pain involved with shooting 3-3.5 inchers. 2.75 is fine with me.

I hope those shells you mentioned come up here. 1.75 would rock.

 

[Rohann]

Short answer: no, there isn't.

-Rohann

 

[Waterfowler]

The only thing a 3" load does is give you a few more pellets. Velocities are about the same.

 

[Rohann]

It's a huge fad, just like certain types of "magnum" cartridges are today. It's a waste of money.

-Rohann

 

[BC Bigbore]

Here's the shot shells I was referring to. They are 1.5" loaded length...very interesting....http://www.aguilaammo.com/minishells.htm