Shotgun loads

Anyone on here ever shoot hogs with T shot? I have some 12 ga 3.5 in T shot. First squirrel hunt of the year today. Came across some hogs and got within 40 yards. Not knowing how effective it would be I wanted to get closer before attempting the shot but they spooked. These were small to medium sized pigs ranging 50 to 100 lbs. I know many will recommend a .22 mag but that's not an option at the moment. Any first hand knowledge or experience shooting T shot at hogs would be appreciated. Thanks

I've probably killed about 10-12 with Dead Coyote hevi-shot 'T' shot. I use 3 inch out of a Remington 870 with an extra full choke. Killed three about 50#'s a piece with one shot one time. Hogs under 100#'s I would be confident out to 40 yards, but patterns good out of my gun that far. Also killed a few with 3 inch federal premium BB lead but not nearly as effective as the hevi-shot. I've probably killed 35-40 with a 22 magnum and that would be my first choice. Small hogs are easy to kill, they usually drop on the spot. Bigger hogs run off, don't bleed, and are a nightmare to find. I won't shoot a big hog unless close range and in the head anymore.

Have talked to a few hunters that have dropped hogs with T shot,my preference would be .22 mag and my son dropped one about dead in his tracks(160 lb)Katrina year using fine azz scoped .22 mag Ruger lever action.I like his rifle and have sniped some tree rats with it just have to make head shots or the mag destroys whatever it hits.Guess 3.5 T shot should work but I would not trust dat past about 35-40 yards!!

Mandevillian

Thanks for the input. I'm shooting a 12 gauge Remington 870 chambered up to 3.5 in and will check out Dead Coyote hevi shot. I currently have Federal T shot in steel. I don't feel confident in steel's ability to penetrate a hog from terribly far away. I prefer smaller pigs, 100 lbs or less. Not looking to take down a big boar, unless the situation calls for it and I do come across some big boys where I hunt. It's an unsettling feeling when a 300 lb boar is staring at you from 15 yards away and all you have is bird shot.
Thanks again.

Last Cast,Know dat feeling all too well though 3 shots of steel at close range should at least convince hog to go elsewhere.Used to routinely see folks take down hogs with multiple shots from .22 but I feel a little more confident in .22 mag and most of the folks I have talked to that have taken down hogs with .22 mag typically shoot through the ear or just in front of the ear.

Mandevillian

TSS loads are much better than big steel. Expensive but penetrates deeper than lead. Also legal to carry during squirrel season.

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