Description
The CCI Big 4 Shotshell in .38 Special is your go-to for close-range pest control without the bulk of a shotgun. I’ve kept a box of these in my shop for decades to deal with everything from barn rats to snakes around the property. They’re a specialized tool, but when you need them, nothing else does the job quite as neatly.
Key Features
- 84-Grain Lead Shot Load: Each cartridge is packed with #9 size lead shot, creating a tight pattern that’s devastating on small pests within about 10-15 feet.
- Clean-Burning Propellant: CCI’s formula minimizes fouling in your revolver’s barrel, which is a real concern with shotshells. I’ve run hundreds of these without the lead buildup you get from some other brands.
- Plastic Capsule Design: The shot is sealed in a plastic capsule with a built-in wad. This protects your barrel and helps keep the pattern together longer than old-style crimped designs.
- Reliable Boxer Primers: You get consistent ignition shot after shot, which is critical when you’re dealing with a moving target like a rodent.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Projectile | 84 Grain #9 Lead Shot |
| Muzzle Velocity | Approx. 1000 fps |
| Quantity | 200 Rounds |
| Case Type | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
Honest Assessment
Pros: These are the most reliable handgun shotshells I’ve tested. The plastic capsule really does reduce barrel fouling, and the pattern is consistent. For their intended purpose—very close-range pest elimination—they are extremely effective and safer than a .38 bullet ricocheting around a confined space.
Cons: The effective range is brutally short. Past 15 feet, the pattern opens up and energy drops off dramatically. They are also a single-purpose round; don’t expect any utility for self-defense or target shooting. The cost per round is higher than standard ammunition.
Who Should Buy This
Buy this 200-round pack if you have a .38 Special revolver dedicated to ranch, farm, or homestead pest control. It’s perfect for someone who needs a quiet, low-recoil solution for snakes, rats, or birds in barns or under porches where a shotgun is overkill or unsafe. After decades of testing various brands, this is the load I recommend to customers with those specific needs.
FAQ
Will these cycle in my .38 Special lever-action rifle?
No, they will not cycle the action. They are designed for revolvers and single-shot firearms. The plastic capsule can also cause feeding issues in any tube magazine.
How is the recoil compared to standard ammo?
Recoil is very mild, noticeably less than a standard 158-grain .38 Special load. The light shot charge and lower pressure make for a soft-shooting experience.
Can these be used for self-defense?
I do not recommend it. The penetration on a human threat is extremely shallow and unreliable. These are for pests, not people. Stick with proven hollow points for defensive use.
Do I need to clean my gun differently after using them?
You’ll still get some plastic and lead residue. I’ve seen firsthand that a standard cleaning is fine, but pay extra attention to the forcing cone and the first inch of the barrel after a shooting session.
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