Is it a bad idea to hunt deer with buckshot from a 12ga down here in Fl? I typically get a 30-40 yard shot
Is it legal to take deer with buck shot in FL? Regardless, I think it's a poor chooce. I would think a sabot slug would be a much better choice assuming you don't have a rifled slug barrel.
If you plan on shooting on the run go for it, if not get a slug set up. Buckshot also needs to be tested my Mossberg for instance shoots terrible with a full choke and Winchester super X 00 Buck. So might have to test different chokes and shells. Having said that I would also shoot slugs - if you can get a slug barrel even better. What shotgun you have?
Check your laws. Where I hunt here in VA, we can only use buckshot. No slug or rifle during gun season. However Muzzleloader is allowed all season once the early muzzleloader comes in.
Buck Shot with a Modified to Full choke is a very effective shot at the ranges your mentioned. Make sure you pattern it first though. A slug is way better on standing to slow moving deer. One thing about Buck shot is it is very much like archery hunting... bad shot placements leave wounded deer.
