20 Gauge Buckshot Ammo

20 gauge buckshot is the smaller-bore answer for close-range deer hunting and home defense — a payload of large pellets that delivers serious close-range effect with markedly less recoil than a 12 gauge. While the 12 dominates the buckshot conversation, the 20 has earned a real following among hunters in shotgun zones and homeowners who want a defensive shotgun that’s easier to control. This page breaks down the buckshot sizes available in 20 gauge, how many pellets they carry, and how to choose for defense or deer.

Tatted Tacticals stocks 20 gauge buckshot from Federal, Remington, Hornady, and Winchester — #3, #2, #1, and 00 buck loads in 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells. It’s part of our full 20 gauge shotgun shells lineup.

20 Gauge Buckshot Sizes

The 20 gauge runs smaller buckshot than the 12, with #3 buck being the traditional standard and 00 buck available in 3″ loads. Larger numbers mean smaller, more numerous pellets.

For the 20 gauge, #3 buck is the time-tested choice — enough pellets and penetration for deer and defense without excessive recoil. The 3″ 00 buck loads bring 12-gauge-size pellets to the 20 for those who want maximum individual pellet energy.

Home Defense and Deer

For home defense, 20 gauge buckshot offers a compelling blend of close-range effectiveness and controllable recoil, which is why many choose a 20-gauge defensive shotgun for smaller-statured shooters. Pattern your load at typical in-home distances to confirm it holds tight. For deer, #3, #2, or #1 buck is effective inside about 40 yards where buckshot hunting is legal; beyond that, reach for 20 gauge slugs. Hunters comparing bores often look at 12 gauge buckshot for more pellets and penetration. Standards follow SAAMI specifications.

Buying 20 Gauge Buckshot

Pattern any defensive or hunting buckshot load in your specific shotgun and choke before relying on it — patterns vary significantly. Federal law sets the minimum age for shotgun ammunition at 18; some states and cities add restrictions, so per ATF guidance, confirm federal rules and review our ammunition shipping rules and state restrictions before ordering.

20 Gauge Buckshot — Frequently Asked Questions

Do they make buckshot for 20 gauge?

Yes. Federal, Remington, Hornady, and Winchester all produce 20 gauge buckshot, most commonly in #3 buck, with #2, #1, and 3″ 00 buck loads also available. It’s a readily available choice for close-range deer hunting and home defense in a softer-shooting platform than the 12 gauge.

What size buckshot is best for 20 gauge?

#3 buck is the traditional and most popular 20 gauge choice, offering a good balance of pellet count and penetration with manageable recoil. For larger individual pellets, #1 buck or 3″ 00 buck loads work well. The best size depends on your use — #3 for an all-around load, larger buck for maximum per-pellet energy.

How far can you shoot a deer with 20 gauge buckshot?

Effective range for 20 gauge buckshot on deer is roughly 40 yards, where the pattern stays dense enough to place multiple pellets in the vitals. Beyond that, pattern spread makes a clean kill unlikely, and a slug is the better choice. Always pattern your specific load and gun to confirm your maximum ethical range.

How many pellets are in 20 gauge buckshot?

It varies by size and shell length. A typical 2-3/4″ #3 buck load carries around 20 pellets, #1 buck about 16, and 3″ 00 buck loads roughly 18. Smaller buckshot numbers carry fewer, larger pellets. Check the specific load, as pellet counts differ between manufacturers and shell lengths.

Is 20 gauge buckshot good for home defense?

Yes. It delivers strong close-range effectiveness with noticeably less recoil than 12 gauge, making it a smart choice for recoil-sensitive defenders and smaller shooters. #3 buck is a common defensive load. As with any defensive shotgun load, pattern it at in-home distances in your specific gun to confirm reliable, tight performance.