Biscuits:        
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). 
Cut shortening into flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 
Stir in milk just until dough forms (do not overmix). 
Turn onto floured surface, fold dough 3-4 times.",
Pat to 1-inch thickness, cut with floured glass or cutter. 
Place on ungreased baking sheet, bake 10-12 minutes.
Brush tops with melted butter immediately after baking.
Gravy:
Brown sausage in large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Remove sausage, leave drippings
Add bacon drippings/butter to skillet, whisk in flour to make a roux (cook 2 minutes until blonde).
Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Add seasonings and return sausage to skillet.
Simmer 5-7 minutes until thickened to coating consistency.
Adjust seasoning with extra black pepper if desired.

Serving:
Serve gravy over split warm biscuits.
Garnish with additional black pepper and hot sauce if desired.