Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Sellier & Bellot 12 Gauge #1 Buckshot load stacks 12 pellets of .30-caliber lead into a 2-3/4″ shell and drives them at 1213 fps from standard-length chambers. This configuration balances pellet count with individual projectile mass — each .30-cal sphere carries more energy downrange than smaller buck sizes, while the dozen-pellet payload maintains adequate pattern density inside 15 yards. Shooters running home-defense shotguns find the compromise between the nine-pellet 00 buck and the sixteen-pellet #4 buck fills a tactical niche: enough individual projectile weight to defeat light barriers, enough pellets to increase hit probability on a moving target under stress. Sellier & Bellot manufactures this ammunition at their Czech facility using non-corrosive Boxer primers and reloadable brass-base hulls — a legacy process dating to 1825 that prioritizes consistent ignition and chambering across pump-action and gas-operated platforms. The roll crimp at the mouth ensures smooth feeding from tubular magazines and side-saddle carriers.
Performance at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Lead Shot |
| Shot size | #1 Buck |
| Number of pellets | 12 |
| Muzzle velocity | 1213 fps |
| Buffered | No |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Crimp | Roll |
| Barrel type | Smooth Bore |
| Intended use | Self Defense |
| Rounds per box | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Sellier & Bellot |
The 1213-fps velocity from an 18.5″ barrel translates to moderate recoil in pump guns and reliable cycling in most semi-autos — shooters running Mossberg 500, Remington 870, or Benelli M4 platforms report consistent ejection and chambering across multiple magazines. The unbuffered shot column experiences some pellet deformation during setback, which opens patterns faster than buffered loads but remains acceptable for hallway distances. Pattern testing at seven yards typically yields 10-12 pellets inside a 6″ circle; at 15 yards expect 8-10 pellets in the same circle with fliers beginning to stray. Compare this to 12 gauge buckshot ammo options carrying fewer, heavier pellets — the #1 buck sits between tactical versatility and barrier performance.
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.
- Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. Be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify current federal, state, and local ammunition regulations before purchase. Some jurisdictions restrict lead shot on public lands or near waterways.
- This ammunition contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling ammunition.
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