Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Hornady American Whitetail 12 gauge sabot slug is a rifled-barrel-specific hunting round built around a 325 grain InterLock hollow point projectile. At 1825 feet per second, this load generates 2403 foot-pounds of muzzle energy — enough to anchor mature whitetails cleanly within 200 yards. The rigid polycarbonate sabot stabilizes the slug through rifled bores, and the serrated hollow point initiates rapid expansion on impact while the lead alloy core maintains weight retention for deep penetration. Hornady loads these shells with boxer primers in reloadable hulls, roll-crimped for consistent chambering. This is a purpose-built big-game slug for rifled shotguns — not compatible with smoothbores or cylinder-choke barrels.
Load Profile
The 325 grain InterLock slug exits rifled barrels at 1825 fps, delivering a flat trajectory and reliable expansion across common deer-hunting distances. The sabot design keeps the projectile centered in the bore, and the slug’s hollow point cavity is serrated to promote controlled petal expansion on soft tissue. Lead alloy core construction balances terminal performance with cost. Each 2-3/4″ shell is boxer-primed and reloadable, with a roll crimp that feeds reliably from tubular and detachable magazines.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell Length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot/Slug Type | Sabot Slug |
| Slug Weight | 325 Grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1825 Feet Per Second |
| Muzzle Energy | 2403 Foot Pounds |
| Barrel Type | Rifled Bore |
| Crimp | Roll |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Rounds/Box | 5 Round |
| Intended Use | Big Game |
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
This load is designed for rifled shotgun barrels only — do not fire in smoothbore barrels or through full, modified, or improved cylinder chokes. For additional 12 gauge slug options, browse our full 12 gauge slugs catalog.
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 at all times. Keep finger off trigger until ready to fire. Be certain of your target and what lies beyond it. Review the four rules of firearm safety before handling any firearm or ammunition.
- Verify that your state and local jurisdiction permit possession and use of 12 gauge slugs. Some municipalities restrict slug hunting or require specific shotgun configurations. Confirm current regulations before purchasing.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Prop 65). Wash hands thoroughly after handling ammunition. Store in original packaging in a cool, dry location away from moisture and direct sunlight.
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