Tag: 12 Gauge

The 12 gauge is the most common cartridge used in shotguns today, and it comes in varying lengths. Unlike the pistols and rifle which measures the ammunition by its caliber, a shotgun measures its ammunition by gauge. The gauge is the bore diameter, where a larger number means a smaller bore. With the 12 gauge, you can make 12 balls out of one pound of lead, which fits into the diameter of the barrel. The 12 gauge cartridge also comes in different lengths such as the 2.75 inches, the 3 inches, and the 3.5 inches.

The 12 gauge cartridge comes in three forms: the birdshot, originally used to shoot birds; the buckshot, which is larger and heavier and used to hunt for larger game; and slugs, used to hunt large games at a shorter range. The pellets from a birdshot is smaller and more numerous than a buckshot because it is used to shoot birds, while the buckshot is generally preferred for home defense, and lastly, the slug, which is used as ammunition by the riot police.

You need to choose a gauge based on recoil and accessibility. Fifty percent of shotguns that are being sold in the US are 12 gauge, and as such, you will have an easier time finding a 12 gauge ammunition.