Gauges and Shells

Gauge is the bore size of a shotgun. Oddly enough, the smaller the number, the bigger the bore.

Common gauges

• 12 gauge: the most popular shotgun gauge, with the widest choice of shells for hunting, clays and defense.
• 20 gauge: lighter guns and less recoil, still capable for birds, deer with slugs and clays.
• 16 gauge: a classic upland gauge that sits between the 12 and 20.
• 28 gauge: a light, sweet-shooting gun for quail and skeet.
• .410 bore: the smallest common shotgun, good for small game and pests, and favored by some for snakes around the property.

Shell length

Common lengths are 2 3/4, 3 and 3 1/2 inches. The barrel stamp tells you the longest shell the gun will safely chamber.

Shell types

• Birdshot: many small pellets for birds, clays and small game.
• Buckshot: fewer, larger pellets for deer where legal and for defense.
• Slugs: a single projectile for deer and larger game.
• Specialty: steel and other non-toxic shot for waterfowl, plus less-lethal loads.

Shells and adapters on video

Shopping for shells? See Shotgun Ammo on Ammo Buyers Guide.com.