Smyth Busters: Is Birdshot Ammo Good for Home Defense?
This video from Smyth Busters investigates the effectiveness of birdshot ammunition for home defense. The hosts, Steve and Caleb, debunk the myth that birdshot is ideal for self-defense. They explain that while birdshot may not over-penetrate walls, its small pellets lack the mass and energy to reliably incapacitate an attacker, especially at greater distances. The video strongly recommends using buckshot (specifically #1, #0, or #00) for home defense, arguing it provides better stopping power. They also address concerns about over-penetration, noting that shotgun slugs are actually more prone to over-penetrating than buckshot.







