Best of the Best: 220 Slug Gun vs Deerslayer III
220 Slug Gun vs Deerslayer III
Our #1 and #2 picks from The 10 Best Deer Hunting Shotguns, compared spec-by-spec with clear pros, cons, and a verdict.
When it comes to slug guns for deer hunting, Savage Arms and Ithaca Gun Company represent two distinct philosophies: modern precision versus classic reliability. The Savage 220 Slug Gun has earned a reputation for rifle-like accuracy, often touted as one of the most accurate slug platforms available, thanks to its bolt-action design and rifled barrel. On the other hand, the Ithaca Deerslayer III, a pump-action shotgun, builds on a long legacy of dependable slug hunting performance, offering a robust and familiar operating system. Deciding between these two often comes down to prioritizing either pinpoint accuracy and contemporary features or rugged simplicity and time-tested design. We'll break down their specifications, pros, and cons to help you determine which slug gun will give you the edge in the deer woods this season.
220 Slug Gun
Savage Arms
A bolt action with an AccuTrigger and a rifled 20-gauge barrel. The most accurate factory slug gun made.
Deerslayer III
Ithaca Gun Company
Barrel pinned to the receiver, not clamped. Legendary for two-inch groups at 100 yards.
Spec-by-Spec
| Spec | #1 220 Slug Gun | #2 Deerslayer III |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs (unloaded) | Approx. 7.0-7.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Capacity/Size | 2+1 rounds (20 Gauge) | 4+1 rounds (12 or 20 Gauge) |
| Materials | Carbon steel receiver, synthetic stock | Milled steel receiver, walnut or synthetic stock |
| Price Tier | Mid-to-High | High |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
| Best Use | Long-range slug hunting, open field/stand hunting | Brush hunting, versatile close-to-mid range, all-weather |
| Portability | Good, standard rifle length | Good, standard shotgun length |
| Durability | Excellent, modern synthetic components | Excellent, all-steel construction |
| Feature Highlights | Bolt-action, AccuTrigger, fully rifled barrel, detachable box magazine | Bottom ejection, fixed rifled barrel, 3" chamber, all-steel construction |
220 Slug Gun
Best for: Hunters prioritizing rifle-level accuracy and longer-range performance from a static position.
Pros
- Exceptional, rifle-like accuracy at longer ranges
- Adjustable AccuTrigger for crisp, personalized trigger pull
- Detachable box magazine for quick and easy unloading/reloading
- Modern ergonomic stock for comfortable handling
Cons
- Slower follow-up shots compared to a pump or semi-auto
- Limited to 2-round magazine capacity
- May feel less 'traditional' for some shotgun hunters
Deerslayer III
Best for: Hunters seeking ultimate reliability, classic feel, and versatile performance in varied hunting conditions.
Pros
- Legendary reliability and robust all-steel construction
- Unique bottom ejection is ambidextrous and keeps spent hulls out of sight
- Smooth pump action for fast follow-up shots
- Classic aesthetics and feel, especially with walnut stock options
Cons
- Generally higher price point than many comparable slug guns
- Fixed barrel limits versatility (no interchangeable choke tubes)
- Can be heavier than some modern synthetic pump guns
The Verdict
For the discerning deer hunter, the Savage 220 Slug Gun emerges as the clear winner if your priority is absolute, repeatable accuracy for longer shots. Its bolt-action design, combined with Savage's AccuTrigger and a fully rifled barrel, offers precision that often rivals centerfire rifles within slug gun ranges. However, if you value rugged dependability, a classic pump-action feel, and the unique, ambidextrous bottom ejection system, the Ithaca Deerslayer III is an outstanding choice. While it may not deliver the same benchrest-level accuracy as the Savage, its proven reliability and smooth operation make it a fantastic tool for dense cover or situations requiring quick follow-up shots. Ultimately, the Savage 220 is for the hunter who demands maximum precision from a stand, while the Deerslayer III is for the hunter who wants a trustworthy, workhorse slug gun for all-around hunting scenarios.