[BereanBrain]

Takes longer to talk about it than it does to change it :)

Video at link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYG7BS-Wntc

(cut and paste link into your browser).

I have a 870 Magnum, for home defense. If you are in a densely wooded area, and you think the shot on the deer would be < 80 yards, just get double aught (00) buckshot and use your full choke barrel or the modified choke.

You will find it slings enough pellets to stop a deer, and you have a much better chance of hitting it, at maybe 50 yards, full choke you will pattern about the size of an unfolded sheet of newspaper, give or take a little.

If you have a “small” home with smallish rooms, I might consider the shorter barrel for home defense. I use my regular field barrel.

[Sir Francis Dashwood]

Home defense???

[Tupelo]

“If you have a “small” home with smallish rooms, I might consider the shorter barrel for home defense.”

I agree 100%.
Taurus Judge works real well.

[Last Dakotan]

If you are in a densely wooded area, and you think the shot on the deer would be < 80 yards, just get double aught (00) buckshot...

Check first to see if your state allows buckshot to be used for deer hunting. This state does not.

The reason for this and most other cartridge rules is they want you to have the most likely kill shot on the deer for the first round rather than wounding it.