imported post
I don't think much of some of these research projects. Bird shot is not "ineffective". An ounce of lead at, oh, lets say 1000 fps at point blank range is gonna do some massive damage. I've seen bird shot cut a 1 1/2 inch tree down at fifteen yards. SHOT PLACEMENT. My cousin accidentally used #6 bird shot on opening day for deer season, instead of buckshot. He took a buck at twenty yards with it. He didn't even realize it until my uncle opened up the deer, and found the lungs nothing but a gelatinous mess, and asked what the hell he shot it with. The lungs weren't even recognizable. He checked the spent shell, and realized his mistake. We still call him "six shot" for that! If you're off target enough that only a dozen or so pellets make contact, it's not going to be very effective. If you're on target, buh bye.