Slug performance for wild boar hunting depends on three linked catalog values: bullet weight, muzzle velocity and chamber pressure. Together these determine the kinetic energy and penetration characteristics delivered downrange. The tables below compare catalog values across Ozkursan's gauge range.
Ballistic factors that determine performance
A slug's terminal effect is tied to three catalog values: bullet weight (the mass of the slug, in grams), muzzle velocity (speed at the muzzle, in m/s) and chamber pressure (the internal pressure generated by the powder charge, in bar). Weight and velocity together determine kinetic energy, while pressure indicates the chamber and barrel tolerance the cartridge is built for.
Comparison by gauge
Ozkursan's slug ammunition range covers 12, 16, 20 and 36 CAL. (.410) gauges. The table below compares catalog values for one representative product per gauge.
| Gauge | Product | Case Type | Shot Weight | Muzzle Velocity | Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 CAL. | Codex Combination Slug (5401) | 12 16 70 | 30 g | 420 m/s | 800 bar |
| 12 CAL. | High-Velocity Slug | 12 16 70 | 30 g | 440 m/s | 850 bar |
| 16 CAL. | 16 Gauge Slug | 16 16 70 | 28 g | 390 m/s | 650 bar |
| 20 CAL. | 20 Gauge Slug | 20 16 70 | 23 g | 410 m/s | 670 bar |
| 36 CAL. / .410 CAL. | 36 Gauge Slug | 36 16 63 | 8 g | 430 m/s | 680 bar |
Weight and velocity balance
As gauge increases from 12 to 36 CAL., shot weight decreases. The 36 CAL. slug compensates for its lower weight with a comparatively high muzzle velocity. Within the 12 CAL. group, the High-Velocity Slug is loaded to a higher muzzle velocity — and correspondingly higher chamber pressure — than other 12 CAL. slugs of the same weight.
Why chamber pressure matters
Chamber pressure indicates the case and barrel tolerance a cartridge is manufactured for. Products loaded at 800 bar or above, such as the Codex Combination Slug and High-Velocity Slug, sit in a different performance class than the roughly 600 bar class that includes the Crane, Etna Power and Sniper slugs. Always match the cartridge to the chamber and pressure tolerance of the firearm in use.
Related information
For a general introduction to slug cartridges, see What Is a Hunting Slug Cartridge?. For selection criteria by gauge and wad type, see Cartridges for Wild Boar Hunting.
Review product categories, the catalog and corporate inquiry options for current Ozkursan information.
