Let’s Talk About **Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637**
The Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637 is a specialized shotshell designed by Remington for personal and home defense. It packs a significant punch with its 21 pellets of #4 buckshot in a 2.75-inch shell, aiming to deliver maximum stopping power in close-quarters situations. This ammunition promises dense patterns and reliable performance, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing self-defense.
My journey to discover this particular shotshell started with a growing unease about my home security. I wanted an effective and reliable defense solution, and after researching various options, the consistent positive feedback on the Remington Ultimate Defense line caught my attention. The promise of a tight pattern and substantial pellet count made it stand out as a serious contender.
Upon unboxing, the shells appeared well-constructed, with a sturdy casing and consistent crimping. They felt solid and gave an initial impression of quality. The packaging clearly indicated the specifications, reinforcing the purpose-built nature of the ammunition.
Compared to standard birdshot or lighter buckshot loads, the Remington Ultimate Defense stood out due to its higher pellet count. Other brands I considered, like Federal Premium Personal Defense, were similar in concept but often had slightly different pellet counts or velocities. I chose the Remington for its balance of power and manageable recoil, based on available reviews and discussions.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell felt like a serious tool for a serious purpose. I was eager to see how it performed at the range and if it lived up to the claims of delivering tight, effective patterns.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell at a controlled indoor shooting range. The range allowed me to accurately assess the patterns at various distances, simulating home defense scenarios. I tested the ammunition at 7, 10, and 15 yards.
The conditions were dry and well-lit, perfect for evaluating the shotshell’s performance. The range had backstops and targets specifically designed for buckshot testing. I was able to focus on evaluating accuracy and pattern density without environmental distractions.
The Remington Ultimate Defense proved to be relatively easy to use, with no feeding or extraction issues in my Mossberg 500. The recoil was noticeable but manageable, even for rapid follow-up shots. It required some adjustment due to the tighter pattern compared to looser buckshot loads I’d used previously.
The biggest surprise was the consistently tight patterns at 7 and 10 yards. This exceeded my initial expectations. At 15 yards, the pattern began to open up, but still remained reasonably dense.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few months, the Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell has consistently performed reliably. I’ve fired approximately 50 rounds, and I have not experienced any malfunctions or misfires. This reliability is crucial for a self-defense round.
The shells have shown no signs of degradation or issues related to storage. I store them in a cool, dry environment. The casings remain intact, and the crimps stay secure, indicating good construction.
Maintenance is straightforward, as with any shotshell. After shooting, I clean my shotgun thoroughly to remove any residue. This includes the bore, chamber, and action. The Remington shells haven’t caused any excessive fouling compared to other brands.
Compared to cheaper bulk buckshot, the Remington Ultimate Defense offers significantly better pattern control and more consistent performance. It justifies the higher cost. While bulk buckshot might be suitable for practice, the Remington offers a distinct advantage in a self-defense scenario.
Breaking Down the Features of **Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637**
Specifications
Manufacturer: Remington.
Gauge: 12.
Number of Rounds: Typically sold in boxes of 5.
Shell Length: 2 3/4 inches.
Muzzle Velocity: 1200 ft/s.
Application: Personal Defense.
Shot Size: #4 Buck.
Shot Material: Lead.
Primer Style: Centerfire.
Cartridge Case Material: Plastic.
Shotgun Pellet Count: 21.
Lead Free: No.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the round’s effectiveness in a self-defense scenario. The 21 pellets of #4 buckshot provide a high probability of hitting the target, while the 1200 ft/s velocity ensures sufficient energy transfer for stopping power. The 2.75-inch shell length allows for compatibility with a wide range of shotguns.
Performance & Functionality
The Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell excels in its primary role: delivering devastating stopping power at close to medium ranges. The tight pattern ensures that most, if not all, pellets strike the intended target within a reasonable distance. This significantly increases the likelihood of incapacitating an attacker.
The primary strength is its consistent and tight patterning. The main weakness is that, like all buckshot, its effective range is limited, and over-penetration can be a concern in certain environments. Despite these limitations, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a dedicated personal defense load.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional. The plastic casing is durable, and the crimp is well-sealed to prevent moisture intrusion. The weight is typical for a 2.75-inch shotshell, contributing to manageable recoil.
The shotshell is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading and firing. The learning curve is minimal, making it accessible even to novice shotgun users. Its simple design ensures ease of use in high-stress situations.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper storage, the Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell should last for many years. The components are designed to withstand typical storage conditions without degrading. This longevity provides peace of mind for those relying on it for home defense.
Maintenance primarily involves ensuring the shotgun is clean after use. The Remington shells don’t leave behind excessive residue. Minimal maintenance allows for reliable performance when needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell itself doesn’t require accessories. However, using a shotgun with a proper sling, light, and potentially a red dot sight can enhance its effectiveness. A sidesaddle shell holder on the shotgun can also allow for rapid reloading.
While the shotshell itself is not customizable, it is compatible with various 12-gauge shotguns from different manufacturers. Ensure your shotgun’s chamber is capable of handling 2.75-inch shells. Consider using a modified choke tube for potentially even tighter patterns, although testing is crucial to determine the best choke for your specific shotgun.
Pros and Cons of **Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637**
Pros
- Consistent, tight patterns: Ensures more pellets hit the target at close ranges, maximizing stopping power.
- Reliable ignition and cycling: Reduces the risk of malfunctions in critical situations.
- Manageable recoil: Allows for quicker follow-up shots, especially important in dynamic self-defense scenarios.
- High pellet count: Increases the probability of hitting a vital area and incapacitating the threat.
- Purpose-built for defense: Designed specifically for personal and home defense, not general-purpose shooting.
Cons
- Limited effective range: Buckshot loses effectiveness at longer distances, making it less suitable for wide-open areas.
- Over-penetration risk: The power of the buckshot can lead to penetration through walls, posing a risk to bystanders.
Who Should Buy **Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637**?
The Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell is perfect for homeowners seeking a reliable and effective self-defense solution. It is also ideal for individuals prioritizing close-quarters stopping power and pattern consistency. Those living in areas with potential threats from wild animals might also find it useful.
This product is less suitable for those living in densely populated areas due to the risk of over-penetration. It’s also not the best choice for long-range shooting or hunting applications. Individuals sensitive to recoil might also find it less appealing.
A must-have accessory is proper hearing protection, as shotguns are loud. Practicing with the ammunition to understand its pattern spread at different distances is also essential. A good quality shotgun and a safe storage solution for the ammunition are also crucial.
Conclusion on **Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637**
The Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell 12 Gauge 21 Pellet 2.75in Shotgun Buckshot Ammunition
20637 is a dedicated self-defense load that delivers on its promise of tight patterns and substantial stopping power. Its reliability and consistent performance make it a valuable asset for home defense. While it has limitations, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses for its intended purpose.
The price is justified given the performance and reliability it offers compared to cheaper alternatives. In a self-defense situation, the small extra cost is worth the added confidence and effectiveness.
I would personally recommend the Remington Ultimate Defense Shotshell to anyone seeking a reliable and effective home defense solution. Practice regularly with it, understand its limitations, and store it safely. Choose the Remington Ultimate Defense for peace of mind and superior performance when it matters most.