Let’s Talk About Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super
The Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super promise to bring rifle-like accuracy and devastating terminal performance to the shotgun world. Hornady has a reputation for producing quality ammunition, and the SST line aims to elevate the shotgun slug to new heights. It utilizes a specialized design to maximize ballistic efficiency and deliver maximum energy on target.
I’d been increasingly frustrated with the inconsistent accuracy of traditional foster slugs during deer season. I needed a slug that could confidently reach out to 150 yards with a higher degree of precision. The claims of sub-2″ groups at 100 yards from the Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super piqued my interest.
Upon opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the sleek design of the slugs. The sharp, pointed FTX bullet looked like it belonged on a rifle cartridge rather than a shotgun shell. They felt well-constructed and the crimp was clean and consistent.
Compared to standard Brenneke Black Magic slugs and Winchester Super-X rifled slugs, the Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super stood out due to their streamlined profile. I chose the Hornady slugs hoping for superior accuracy and flatter trajectory. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism; I’d seen a lot of marketing hype that didn’t live up to reality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super was at my local shooting range. The weather was typical for late fall: a crisp 45 degrees with a light drizzle. I was shooting from a bench rest with my Mossberg 500 fitted with a rifled barrel and a 2-7x scope.
The recoil was noticeably stout, but manageable. These slugs definitely pack a punch. I found that I needed to tighten my grip and shoulder the gun firmly to maintain accuracy.
The first few shots were scattered, but after adjusting my scope and finding the right hold, the groups started to tighten up. After about 10 rounds, I was consistently hitting within a 3-inch circle at 100 yards. There were no malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super for practice and hunting, I can attest to their reliability. I’ve put approximately 50 rounds through my shotgun with zero failures to feed, fire, or eject.
I’ve stored them in my hunting pack and range bag through varying temperatures and humidity levels. There has been no sign of corrosion or degradation.
The slugs maintained their accuracy even after being jostled around in my pack. While I haven’t taken any deer with them yet, I did harvest a wild hog at approximately 80 yards. The slug performed admirably, dropping the hog in its tracks with a single shot. The terminal performance was definitely impressive. They outperformed the standard rifled slugs I’d used in the past in both accuracy and stopping power.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super
Specifications
- Caliber: 20 Gauge. This dictates compatibility with 20-gauge shotguns and influences recoil and range.
- Grain Weight: 250 grain. Heavier slugs generally retain more energy downrange and offer deeper penetration.
- Shell Length: 2.75 inches. This is a standard length for 20 gauge, but always confirm compatibility with your shotgun’s chamber.
- Bullet Type: Super Shock Tip (SST) with patented FTX bullet. The FTX bullet’s尖锐的tip enhances the ballistic coefficient and promotes rapid expansion.
- Muzzle Velocity: Not explicitly stated but referenced as “Super,” suggesting higher velocity than standard loads. The higher velocity aids in a flatter trajectory and increased energy on target.
- Energy at 100 Yards: 1200 ft/lbs. This is a crucial metric for determining the slug’s potential stopping power on game animals.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super excel in both accuracy and terminal performance. They group consistently at 100 yards, making them a viable option for longer-range shots. The FTX bullet design contributes significantly to their accuracy and expansion capabilities.
One minor weakness is the heavier recoil compared to lighter slugs. This can be mitigated with proper shooting technique and a well-padded recoil pad. Overall, these slugs exceed my expectations for a 20-gauge slug.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super are designed with a focus on aerodynamics and terminal ballistics. The FTX bullet features a polymer tip that helps maintain its shape during flight and initiates expansion upon impact. The slugs themselves are well-constructed and easy to load into the shotgun.
The 2.75-inch length is standard and should cycle reliably in most 20-gauge shotguns. The brass casing is of high quality, ensuring smooth extraction.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super are manufactured to high standards and are designed to be stored for extended periods without degradation. The brass casing is corrosion-resistant, which helps to maintain the slug’s integrity.
Cleaning your shotgun after using these slugs is essential to prevent fouling and maintain optimal performance. Standard gun cleaning procedures apply.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super themselves do not offer customization options beyond selecting the appropriate gauge and load for your shotgun. However, to maximize their accuracy, pairing them with a rifled shotgun barrel and a quality optic is highly recommended.
They are also compatible with various aftermarket recoil pads to help mitigate the felt recoil. There are no specific branded accessories exclusive to these slugs, but they work seamlessly with a wide range of standard shotgun accessories.
Pros and Cons of Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: Delivers consistent groups at 100 yards and beyond.
- Devastating Terminal Performance: The FTX bullet expands reliably, resulting in rapid energy transfer.
- High Energy at 100 Yards: Provides ample stopping power for medium to large game.
- Streamlined Design: Enhances ballistic coefficient for a flatter trajectory.
- Reliable Function: Consistent feeding, firing, and ejection.
Cons
- Heavier Recoil: More noticeable recoil compared to standard slugs.
- Premium Price: More expensive than traditional foster-type slugs.
Who Should Buy Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super?
The Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super are perfect for hunters seeking to extend their effective range and improve accuracy with a shotgun. They are also suitable for those who prioritize maximum stopping power on medium to large game animals.
Those who are recoil-sensitive or primarily hunt at very close ranges may find other slug options more suitable. A must-have modification is a rifled barrel and a quality optic for optimal accuracy.
Conclusion on Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super
The Hornady SST Slugs 20 Gauge 250 grain 2.75 in Super deliver on their promise of rifle-like accuracy and devastating terminal performance. While the recoil is noticeable, the benefits far outweigh this minor drawback.
The higher price is justified by the superior performance and reliability. I would highly recommend these slugs to any hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential. Upgrade your slug game today and experience the Hornady difference.