Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
For home defense shooters who need 12 gauge 00 buckshot that cycles reliably without punishing recoil, the Hornady American Gunner load delivers 8 pellets of swaged high-antimony lead at 1350 feet per second. Buckshot is a shotshell loaded with multiple large-diameter pellets—#00 buck measures .33 inches per pellet—designed to deliver immediate stopping power at close range. This reduced-recoil configuration runs in gas-operated semi-automatics without short-stroking, and the Versatite wad patterning system eliminates the need for specialty chokes or barrel modifications.
Load Profile
Hornady loads these 2-3/4-inch hulls with 8 pellets of lead shot swaged to tight tolerances for uniform flight. High antimony content—3-6% by weight—increases pellet hardness, reducing deformation on setback and barrel contact. At 1350 fps muzzle velocity, you achieve effective patterns out to 15 yards through improved cylinder or modified chokes. Roll crimp secures consistent ignition, and Boxer primers allow reloading for shooters who process spent hulls. Country of origin: United States.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Lead Shot |
| Shot size | #00 Buck |
| Number of pellets | 8 |
| Muzzle velocity | 1350 fps |
| Buffered | No |
| Wad | Versatite |
| Crimp | Roll |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Barrel type | Smooth Bore |
| Rounds per box | 10 |
| Intended use | Self Defense |
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
This load fits defensive shotguns chambered for 2-3/4-inch or longer shells—Remington 870, Mossberg 500/590, Benelli M4, and similar platforms. Store in a cool, dry location away from ignition sources. Review our 12 gauge buckshot ammo category for additional loads and grain weights.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities—review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Keep finger off trigger until ready to fire. Be certain of target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify current state and local ammunition laws before ordering. Some jurisdictions restrict buckshot for civilian use.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling ammunition and components.
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