This refers to a specific type of shotgun ammunition. A 12-gauge shotgun fires shells of a specific bore diameter (approximately 18.5 mm). The term “3.5 inch” denotes the length of the shotshell casing, while “slug” indicates the projectile is a single, solid piece of lead, rather than multiple smaller pellets (shot). This combination results in a powerful load typically used for hunting large game or for defensive purposes.
The increased propellant capacity of the longer 3.5-inch shell delivers higher projectile velocities and greater kinetic energy compared to shorter shells. This translates to enhanced stopping power and increased effective range, making it suitable for taking down larger, more resilient game animals. The development and adoption of longer shotshells reflect advancements in firearms technology and the ongoing pursuit of improved ballistic performance. Historically, shorter shells like 2-3/4 inches and 3 inches were the standard. The introduction of 3-1/2 inch magnum shells offered hunters a considerable advantage.