<P> Shotgun slugs ( 12 gauge ) achieve typical velocities of approximately 1800 fps for 1 - oz . ( 437.5 grain ) slugs , for an energy of over 3,100 ft - lbs ( 4200 J ) . In contrast , a . 30 - 06 bullet weighing 150 grains at a velocity of 2600 fps achieves an energy of 2,250 ft - lbs ( 3051 J ) . However , a shotgun slug has greater air resistance and slows more quickly than a spitzer bullet fired from a rifle . Shotgun slugs thus are best suited for uses over shorter ranges than rifle bullets . However , for hunting in built - up populated areas , shotgun slugs ( with regard to range ) are considerably safer than rifles , with maximum ranges typically under 400 yards , in comparison to maximum ranges of several miles for errant projectiles from rifles . </P>
<P> Shotgun slugs ( 12 gauge ) achieve typical velocities of approximately 1800 fps for 1 - oz . ( 437.5 grain ) slugs , for an energy of over 3,100 ft - lbs ( 4200 J ) . In contrast , a . 30 - 06 bullet weighing 150 grains at a velocity of 2600 fps achieves an energy of 2,250 ft - lbs ( 3051 J ) . However , a shotgun slug has greater air resistance and slows more quickly than a spitzer bullet fired from a rifle . Shotgun slugs thus are best suited for uses over shorter ranges than rifle bullets . However , for hunting in built - up populated areas , shotgun slugs ( with regard to range ) are considerably safer than rifles , with maximum ranges typically under 400 yards , in comparison to maximum ranges of several miles for errant projectiles from rifles . </P>
maximum effective range of a 12 gauge slug
maximum effective range of a 12 gauge slug
under 400 yards
under 400 yards