So I’ve found a sweet spot were the bass hit Shad like crazy. The only problem is there is gar there as well. Lost $30 worth of lures fishing with mono. I know people that fish for gar use steel leaders, but would braid protect my lures a little?

With like diameter, braid is tougher than mono or fluorocarbon.  I'd go with a heavier braid and you'll have a chance. I switched to all superline this Spring and haven't lost one lure since doing so, but I haven't caught a gar either.

Braid frays and cuts easier than mono on sharp edges. Gar have sharp scales, not just teeth. I've had very few bite offs from gar though, they don't have cutting teeth, they have needle teeth for holding prey. They like to twist and spin while fighting and will often wrap the line around them and then their sharp scales will saw right through your line. Not really anything you can do to prevent this, I've seen them roll up and cut limb lines with #180 cord, takes them awhile but they'll get it done. 

We have plenty of gar around here, and like blue said braid doesn't stand a chance. Steel leader is about you best bet, or really thick mono.

 

We actually have a local that makes gar lures and it works great. Just fraid rope really tied to look like a silver floating fish.