Buckshot loads

[Mr. 16 gauge]

Looking for some information on buckshot loads from those who have actually used it to take deer. I have tons of books and internet sources telling my what I should be using and what might work. I'm looking for practicals; not just theory.
Looking for loads, shot sizes etc.
The gun is a 10 gauge Pedersoli SxS with choke tubes; I currently have IC, modified, and full. I have a both FFg black powder and Pyrodex RS, and 00, #1, and #4 buckshot at my disposal (not a big fan of #4 in modern shotshells, but I'll listen to your experience with it.
Thanks in advance.............not planning on using it this year; will do some experimentation with loads/distances/patterns next spring and summer in preparation for fall.

 

[andy52]

It's pretty limited in places where that is legal.

 

[Britsmoothy]

Not a deer but I did take a two fox's. One was 50yds. 10g Pedersoli and 2oz #4 buck. 90gn of 3f. Thin cards for a wad.

 

[TCMonts]

The bigger the better Whatever will stack in even layers. .375 RB (4/0) may stack in your barrel and .35 (3/0) will. I think 2/0 will stack in multiples of three. The one in my avitar was taken with 80g RS, nitro card, 12 3/0 buck, and a thin overshot card. that's a 10g DP built double branded by TVA or Cabelas I don't remember which. I.ve also tacken a buck with a Navy Arms Branded DP 12g With 8 or 10 3/0 over 70g T7. Weigh your shot load and use the same powder charge you would with bird shot. Generally you will. Get better patterns with more open chokes but not always, There's just no way to get around patterning and load development. Remember deer hunting with buckshot is a close range game.