Blain, this isn't my expert opinion what I'm about to say. This is how it has been explained to me:

The SABOT slugs are made of 100% copper (with some alloy-mixes out there). The metal is much harder than the lead Brenekes or the Fosters. Since the lead is softer, slug "upset" happens more rapidly, thus reducing penetration capabilities as compared to the copper solid Sabot slugs. The Sabots also have a more slender "body" with a more aerodynamic shape to it, closer related to a traditional rifle bullet. Actually, the sabot slug looks like a miniature "hour glass". Being copper, it doesnt expand or flaten out like lead.

Now, the Remingtons I mentioned earlier above, are actually cut with serations (four as I recall) and open up into a "flower" looking slug after it's struck its target. It's a very controled expansion that is really beneficial on large game such as Bear, Moose & elk.

I've used it on a 400+ lb feral hog and the slug went right through, taking a big chuck of "pork" out the second hole with it. Pig dropped like a buffalo getting hit with a train. I also have used my 416 Remington on pigs and an elk. It hits like "Thor" out of the clouds, but the sabot slug seems to produce more shock trauma on the animals I've used it on. I'd say using on dangerous game like grizzly, polar or even cape buffalo, would be a real "blast" (no pun intended).

With regards to buck shot. Yeah, anything is possible. However, me being in law enforcement, I've personally witnessed a pit bull taking two shots of 2 3/4" copper plated 00 buck (12 pellet magnum version, not the 9 pellet load) and keep running!!! The distance was about 10 yards away.

I've also seen a blast of 00 buck (same 12 pellet load from Winchester, called "Super-XX magnum loads) hit a human in the torso and the guy lived. The range was at about 15 yards. It knocked him on his a$$, but the guy lived to tell about it (in prison).

So, I'd be afraid to use buck shot on a big huge grizzly, unless I was close and hit him in the "computer" (head/face) area. Buck shot is only lead round balls, with a muzzle velocity of about a .357magnum. Hitting a giant bruin 9 or 12 times with a 357mag, but using just lead round balls to me is risky. the lead balls (buckshot) doesn't have the ability to expand or the wieght necessary to penetrate and break big bone etc... Let alone, first tearing through thick fur, hide, several inches of fat, flesh/muscle, and finally striking strong (bear) bone.

I'm sure it's been done lots of times, but it sure wouldnt be my first choice on a bear. Deer, yes no problem within range. Grizzly bear????not me. Maybe you're more confident and better than me with a shotgun. In that case, go for it. Whatever works for you. I've just lost a lot of faith after seeing a man and a dog (with two hits of 00 buck) live another day after sucking up the buck shot.

Hey isn't that why it's called "Buck shot" and not "Bruin or Bear shot"???? Don't think it was designed or meant to be used on large dangerous game.

Edited by - Hk45USP on 01/08/2002 12:42:10